Benelli M1

Wanting to purchase a Benelli (M1 or Super Black eagle), I am just wondering if they are as good as they say and are they worth the extra money in comparison to other auto's. Like Remington 11-87, Browning gold hunter and the Winchester x2. What I am looking for is info from hunters in the field. Wet, dirty,or cold conditions and in this conditions how did the guns work. I know you have to keep the auto clean and oiled of course but I am asking what type of conditions have you hunted in with the guns still performing like they should. I can read all the crap from each manufactures site but it is in the field that counts... Thanks for reading this and any info in regards to any of the mentioned guns would be appreciated....Reg

I don't have a Benelli, but I have a Beretta Pintail/1201 which is a very similar design. It is amazing. The first time I took it goose hunting, the other guys' guns were all jammed at the same time and I was still shooting. Two of them were shooting pumps. This was awful conditions, in the rain in a South Texas rice paddy. If you want solid reliability and a great pointing gun, get the Benelli.

I bought a Benelli M1 about 3 years ago. (considered the SBE, but decided I didn't need or want 3 1/2 inch)

I'd definitely recommend the gun, I've seen many problems in the field with gas operated actions, (Rem 11-87, Browning, Win X2) but I've never experienced one with my M1. (inertia operated action)

I've owned and shot the X2 for 2 seasons now. It's gotten REAL wet, shoots great, fits me real well and I couldn't see the extra 4-5 hundred $ for the Benelli. Also, with a 26' barrel it's 7 1/2lbs which is a pound lighter than the Remington. You probably wouldn't go wrong with any of them; the most important thing being 'does it fit' and can you hit with it.

Thanks for the info Gary it is looking like Benelli will be the choice. SBE is the best one of the Benelli because of the 3 1/2 capabilities.. Reg

I have the Super Centro (called something like the sportier in the states). I have shot well over 5000 rounds in it over the last year, on clay and game. some days it is covered in mud. the odd cartridge goes in with mud on the out side. It has never jammed. not even with my hand loaded subsonic (that sometimes cause my o/u to fail to reset the top barrel). It is also an easy gun to clean, no gas piston. If i had to chose only one gun it would be a benelli sa of some sort.

I have had my SBE for several years now. Hunt pheasant, dove and turkey primarily. Love the gun, the only problem I have ever had is with extremely light loads not kicking out completely. 1 in 100 rounds shooting trap.