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Benelli 828 S A.I. Silver 20 Gauge Shotgun Review: Precision, Power & Elegance for Hunters and Sport Shooters
🔹 Table of Contents Benelli 828 S A.I.
1. Introduction to the Benelli 828 S A.I. Silver 20 Gauge
2. Design & Build Quality
3. Key Specifications and Technical Features
4. Benelli Advanced Impact System Explained
5. Available Modifications and Barrel Options
6. Performance: Range, Accuracy & Recoil
7. Hunting Applications: Game Types & Environments
8. Sporting Use: Trap, Skeet & Sporting Clays
9. Chokes, Accessories & Customization
10. Price & Market Position
11. User Reviews: Pros and Cons
12. Why Hunters and Shooters Choose the 828 S A.I.
13. Interesting Facts About the 828 Series
14. Final Verdict
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1. Introduction to the Benelli 828 S A.I. Silver 20 Gauge
The Benelli 828 S A.I. Silver in 20 Gauge is a premium over-and-under shotgun designed for discerning hunters and competitive sport shooters. Combining Italian craftsmanship with cutting-edge ballistic technology, this firearm stands out for its lightweight build, advanced recoil management, and exceptional shooting performance.
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2. Design & Build Quality
• Receiver: Lightweight aluminum alloy with elegant silver finish and refined engraving.
• Stock: Grade 3 walnut with oil finish, ergonomically shaped for optimal cheek weld and balance.
• Weight: Approx. 3.2 kg (full assembly), making it ideal for walk-up hunting and long shooting sessions.
• Aesthetics: Tartan-lined polymer case and modular internal compartments reflect Benelli’s attention to detail.
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3. Key Specifications and Technical Features
Feature Specification
Gauge 20
Barrel Lengths 65 cm / 70 cm / 76 cm
Chokes 5 interchangeable (///****/cylinder)
Recoil System Progressive Comfort
Trigger Removable, single selective
Ejection System Automatic
Safety Automatic
Stock Lengths 345 mm to 385 mm (multiple pad options)
Weight (Barrels) 1.6 kg each
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4. Benelli Advanced Impact System Explained
The Advanced Impact (A.I.) system is the heart of the 828 S A.I. Silver. It enhances:
• Shot velocity: Higher initial speed for better penetration.
• Pattern consistency: Improved spread for reliable hits.
• Effective range: Extended reach compared to traditional 20-gauge shotguns.
This system makes the shotgun particularly effective for fast-moving targets and longer-range engagements.
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5. Available Modifications and Barrel Options
Benelli offers multiple barrel lengths (65, 70, and 76 cm) to suit different shooting styles:
• Short barrels (65 cm): Ideal for dense cover and quick target acquisition.
• Long barrels (76 cm): Preferred for open-field hunting and sporting clays.
Stock configurations include compact and standard lengths, with adjustable recoil pads for personalized fit.
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6. Performance: Range, Accuracy & Recoil
• Effective Range: Up to 50–60 meters for game birds, thanks to the A.I. system.
• Recoil: Minimized by the Progressive Comfort system, which uses interlocking buffers to absorb shock.
• Balance: Centralized weight distribution ensures smooth swing and follow-through.
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7. Hunting Applications: Game Types & Environments
The 828 S A.I. Silver 20 Gauge excels in:
• Upland bird hunting: Pheasant, partridge, grouse.
• Waterfowl (light loads): Teal, wood duck.
• Small game: Rabbit, squirrel.
Its lightweight and fast handling make it ideal for walk-up hunts and dynamic field conditions.
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8. Sporting Use: Trap, Skeet & Sporting Clays
While primarily a hunting shotgun, the 828 S A.I. is also suitable for:
• Sporting clays: Thanks to its fast target acquisition and low recoil.
• Skeet shooting: With shorter barrels and quick cycling.
• Trap shooting: Less common, but possible with longer barrels and tighter chokes.
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9. Chokes, Accessories & Customization
Included are five interchangeable chokes:
• Full (*)
• Improved Modified (**)
• Modified (***)
• Improved Cylinder (****)
• Cylinder (cyl)
Accessories:
• Polymer case with tartan lining
• Adjustable recoil pads
• Modular barrel and receiver compartments
• Optional sling swivels and stock spacers
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10. Price & Market Position
• Retail Price: Approx. €3,750 in Europe C
• Positioning: Premium segment, competing with Beretta SL2 and Browning 725 ProSport
• Value: High-end features justify the price for serious hunters and shooters
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11. User Reviews: Pros and Cons
Pros:
• Exceptional build quality
• Advanced ballistic performance
• Low recoil and ergonomic fit
• Elegant design and finish
Cons:
• Premium price point
• Limited availability in some regions
• May require fitting for optimal comfort
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12. Why Hunters and Shooters Choose the 828 S A.I.
• Reliability: Benelli’s reputation for durability and performance.
• Innovation: Advanced Impact system sets it apart.
• Versatility: Suitable for both hunting and sport shooting.
• Comfort: Progressive Comfort system reduces fatigue.
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13. Interesting Facts About the 828 Series
• The 828 series was named after Benelli’s founding year: 1967 (8+2+8 = 18, reversed = 81).
• The A.I. barrels are among the first to use predictive impact modeling for shot pattern optimization.
• The removable trigger group allows for easy maintenance and customization.
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14. Final Verdict
The Benelli 828 S A.I. Silver 20 Gauge is a masterclass in modern shotgun engineering. With its blend of performance, elegance, and innovation, it’s a top-tier choice for hunters who demand precision and sport shooters who value comfort and control. Whether you’re chasing birds in the field or breaking clays on the range, this shotgun delivers.
Blaser FBX Sporting Shotgun: Precision Engineering for Hunters and Competitive Shooters. Review, Price.
The Blaser FBX is the latest evolution in high-performance shotguns, designed for both sporting clays and game hunting. Introduced in 2025, the FBX builds upon the legacy of Blaser’s F3 and F16 models, offering a refined shooting experience through advanced engineering, modularity, and recoil management. This article provides a comprehensive review of the FBX, covering its design, systems, calibers, performance, and real-world feedback from shooters.
🔧 Overview and Design Philosophy
The Blaser FBX is a 12-gauge over-and-under shotgun, purpose-built for competition shooting and field use. It features a Fat Body monocoque receiver, which lowers the center of gravity and enhances balance between the shooter’s hands. The FBX is engineered for minimal recoil, intuitive handling, and custom fit, making it ideal for long shooting sessions and high-pressure environments.
Key design elements include:
• Inline hammer system for fast lock time
• Detachable trigger unit for easy maintenance
• Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating for corrosion resistance
• Balancer system in both fore-end and buttstock
• Ventilated side rails for barrel cooling and weight reduction
⚙️ Modifications and Configurations
The FBX is available in several configurations to suit different shooting disciplines and ergonomic preferences:
• Barrel lengths: 76 cm, 81 cm, and 86 cm
• Choke options: Fixed ½ & ½ or extended Briley thin-wall multi-chokes (set of 5)
• Stock types:• Standard sporting stock
• Adjustable comb (4D stock)
• Left-handed versions
• Custom wood grades from HQ5 to HQ11
• Trigger: Mechanical, with Anti-Double System (IBS®) and Ejection Ball System (EBS®)
These modular options allow shooters to tailor the FBX to their body dimensions, shooting style, and target types.
📐 Technical Specifications
• Gauge: 12/76 (3” chamber)
• Weight: Approx. 3.85 kg (8.5 lbs)
• Drop/Cast/Pitch: Drop 37/49 mm, Cast 3/8/20 mm, Pitch 85°
• Recoil pad: Kick-Eez® with large contact surface
• Front bead: Red LPA or grain-of-barley style
• Finish: DLC-coated steel components
• Trigger pull: Light and crisp, optimized for fast follow-up shots
🎯 Performance and Shooting Experience
The FBX excels in both clay shooting and game hunting due to its:
• Linear recoil management: Reduces muzzle flip and shoulder fatigue
• Optimized barrel geometry: Improves shot velocity and pattern consistency
• Perfect balance: Enhances swing characteristics and target acquisition
Shooters report exceptional control on fast crossers and long-range targets. The FBX’s recoil mitigation makes it suitable for heavier loads (up to 36g) without discomfort, which is especially beneficial for pheasant, duck, and partridge hunting.
🦌 Hunting Applications
While the FBX is marketed primarily as a sporting shotgun, its versatility makes it a strong candidate for upland and waterfowl hunting. Common game includes:
• Pheasant
• Partridge
• Duck
• Woodcock
• Rabbit (with buckshot or slug)
Its precision and balance also make it viable for driven hunts and walk-up shooting, especially with fiber wad cartridges.
💰 Price and Availability
The MSRP for the Blaser FBX Sporting starts at $13,995 USD, depending on configuration and wood grade. Custom stocks and engraving options can push the price higher. Availability is currently limited, with initial deliveries beginning in mid-2025 through authorized dealers in the U.S., U.K., and EU.
🗣️ Shooter Feedback: Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
• Exceptional balance and recoil control
• Modular fit and customization
• Premium materials and finish
• Smooth trigger and fast cycling
• Ideal for both competition and hunting
❌ Cons
• High price point
• Removable trigger may be unnecessary for some
• No barrel weight adjustment (uses internal balancer system)
• Limited availability and long lead times
🏆 Why Shooters Choose the FBX
The FBX is chosen by shooters who value:
• German engineering precision
• Consistency in performance
• Customization without gunsmithing
• Durability and low maintenance
• Aesthetic appeal with modern styling
It competes directly with Beretta DT11, Perazzi High Tech, and Krieghoff K-80, offering a more modular and tech-forward alternative.
📌 Final Verdict
The Blaser FBX is a top-tier shotgun that blends engineering excellence with shooter-centric design. Whether you’re breaking clays or flushing birds, the FBX delivers a smooth, balanced, and fatigue-free experience. It’s not just a firearm — it’s a precision instrument built for those who demand the best.
If you’re serious about your shooting and ready to invest in a platform that adapts to you, the FBX deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Fausti DEA UPLAND SLX: A Hunter's and Clay Shooter's Companion - Review
Introduction
The Fausti DEA UPLAND SLX is a break-action over-under shotgun that seamlessly blends classic Italian craftsmanship with modern features. Designed with both the discerning hunter and the competitive clay shooter in mind, this shotgun offers a balance of elegance, performance, and reliability. Let's dive deep into what makes the DEA UPLAND SLX a standout choice.
Overview and Background
Fausti is an Italian gunmaker with a strong reputation for producing high-quality shotguns. Known for their attention to detail, use of quality materials, and innovative designs, their guns are popular worldwide. The DEA UPLAND SLX represents a cornerstone in their lineup, often praised for its versatility and handling.
Available Modifications & Configurations
The Fausti DEA UPLAND SLX is available in several configurations to suit different needs and preferences:
Gauge Options: Primarily available in 12, 20, and 28 gauge. Some models may also be found in .410 bore.
Barrel Lengths: Barrel lengths typically range from 26 to 30 inches. Shorter barrels (26-28") are often favored for upland hunting, providing quick handling in dense cover. Longer barrels (30") provide a smoother swing and are favored by many clay target shooters.
Stock Options: Available with various grades of walnut, and different stock styles (English, pistol grip). Adjustable combs are often an option on newer models, allowing for a customized fit.
Choke Systems: Comes with interchangeable choke tubes (usually a set of 5), offering versatility for different hunting and clay shooting scenarios.
Finish Options: Available with blued, nickel-plated, or color case-hardened receivers. Some models may feature intricate engravings.
Key Features & Systems
Boxlock Action: Employs a reliable and durable boxlock action, known for its strength and ease of maintenance.
Selective Ejectors: Ejects spent shells automatically upon opening the action. The ejectors are selective, meaning you can choose to eject both shells, or only the fired shell, depending on the setting.
Single Selective Trigger: Allows the shooter to choose which barrel fires first with a selector switch, usually located on the safety.
Chrome-Lined Barrels: Provide enhanced corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning.
Ventilated Rib: Reduces heat distortion and provides a clear sighting plane.
Automatic Safety: Engages automatically when the action is opened.
Calibers and Specifications
Here's a table outlining the typical specifications for the Fausti DEA UPLAND SLX on foto4
Performance & Range
The effective range of the DEA UPLAND SLX depends heavily on the gauge, choke, and load used. Here's a general guideline:
12 Gauge: Effective range out to 40-50 yards with appropriate loads. Suitable for a wide range of game and clay targets.
20 Gauge: Effective range out to 35-45 yards. Excellent for upland game and sporting clays.
28 Gauge: Effective range out to 25-35 yards. A lighter gauge ideal for close-range upland hunting and challenging clay target presentations.
Hunting and Target Applications
Upland Hunting: The UPLAND SLX truly shines in upland environments. The lighter weight and quick handling make it ideal for chasing birds like quail, pheasant, grouse, and woodcock. The interchangeable chokes allow you to tailor your pattern to the specific hunting situation.
Waterfowl Hunting: While not specifically designed for waterfowl, the 12-gauge version can be used effectively with appropriate non-toxic shot and choke selections.
Clay Target Shooting: The DEA UPLAND SLX is a versatile option for clay target sports like sporting clays, skeet, and trap. The longer barrel options and interchangeable chokes make it adaptable to different target presentations.
Performance in Various Conditions
Weather Resistance: The chrome-lined barrels and durable finish provide good resistance to rust and corrosion. However, like any firearm, it requires proper cleaning and lubrication, especially after exposure to wet conditions.
Handling in Dense Cover: Shorter barrel lengths (26-28") make the UPLAND SLX easy to maneuver in thick brush.
Recoil Management: The weight and balance of the shotgun, combined with a well-fitted stock, help to mitigate recoil. The 20- and 28-gauge models are particularly comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
User Reviews and Feedback
Positive Reviews: Owners frequently praise the UPLAND SLX for its build quality, smooth action, and attractive aesthetics. Many appreciate the versatility of the interchangeable chokes and the well-balanced feel.
Common Criticisms: Some users find the stock finish to be somewhat basic on entry-level models. Others mention that the trigger pull can be a bit heavy on some examples.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
High-quality Italian craftsmanship
Versatile for hunting and clay shooting
Interchangeable chokes
Reliable boxlock action
Available in multiple gauges
Elegant design
Cons:
Can be more expensive than some competing shotguns
Stock finish may be basic on entry-level models
Trigger pull may be heavy on some examples
Why Choose the Fausti DEA UPLAND SLX?
The Fausti DEA UPLAND SLX is an excellent choice for shooters who value quality, versatility, and classic aesthetics. It's a shotgun that can be equally at home in the field, pursuing upland game, or on the clay target range. The availability of different gauges and configurations allows you to select a model that perfectly fits your needs and preferences.
Alternatives
Some alternatives to the Fausti DEA UPLAND SLX include:
Beretta Silver Pigeon I
Browning Citori
CZ-USA Redhead Premier
Rizzini BR110
Conclusion
The Fausti DEA UPLAND SLX is a well-rounded over-under shotgun that offers a winning combination of performance, reliability, and style. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a dedicated clay shooter, this shotgun is sure to provide years of enjoyable use.
