Nothing epitomizes the upland-hunting experience like a classically styled over/under (O/U) shotgun. For 2023, Benelli has moved the 828U series to the next technological level with the introduction of the new 828U Steel model in 12- and 20-gauge.
The 828U series made its mark on the shotgun scene due largely to its patented steel lock plate. The steel lock plate locks to the back of the barrel to contain shotshell pressure, and prevent its transfer to the receiver, eliminating the wear and tear on the receiver and hinge that traditional O/U platforms typically suffer. This has helped make the 828U series the preferred choice of O/U fans.
Now, Benelli presents a fresh model to the 828U line with the 828U Steel. As its name implies, the 828U Steel is made with a steel receiver instead of aluminum. This adds a slight amount of weight to the gun to help mitigate recoil when using heavier loads, offering a subtle balance shift for smoother swings, even on fast crossing shots.
Another notable feature of the new 828U Steel is the addition of the Benelli Surface Treatment (BE.S.T.) to the barrels, receiver, and lock plate. This proprietary coating offers incredible corrosion and abrasion resistance, making the shotgun nearly impervious to harsh environments. In short, the 828U, with its exquisite AA-Grade satin walnut stock and fore-end, satin receiver, and gloss barrels may look like a treasured mantle piece, but this gun is built to withstand hard field use for years to come.
As with all Benelli 828U shotguns, the 828U Steel includes the company's Progressive Comfort System. Contained within the walnut stock, this system utilizes three-stage recoil buffers that engage under progressively harder recoil to provide comfortable recoil mitigation, matching light to magnum shotshell loads. Additional features include impulse-activated ejectors for a stronger and simpler ejector system, a removable trigger group to aid cleaning, and 40-point drop and cast adjustability for a custom fit.
The 828U Steel comes chambered for 2 3/4- and 3-inch shotshells in both 12- and 20-gauge. Barrel lengths offered are 26-, 28-, and 30-inch. Crio-treated chokes in C, IC, M, IM, and F are also included.
For more information, visit benelliusa.com. MSRP: $3399
