Unveiling the Nova: A Closer Look
The world of shotguns is vast and varied, offering options for everything from busting clays to protecting your home. Amidst the countless choices, one name consistently rises to the top for its blend of quality, reliability, and innovation: Benelli. When considering the perfect shotgun for a range of applications, the Benelli Nova 20 Gauge often emerges as a top contender. This article dives deep into a comprehensive Benelli Nova 20 Gauge review, exploring its features, performance, build quality, and value to help you determine if this pump-action powerhouse is the right choice for you.
Exploring the Specifications and Features
Before getting into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a look at what makes the Benelli Nova 20 Gauge tick. The fundamental design emphasizes simplicity and durability.
The Nova is a pump-action shotgun, a mechanism that has proven itself over decades for its reliability. Cycling the action is straightforward, and the design ensures smooth operation, even under pressure. The Nova’s receiver is typically constructed of a high-strength composite material, providing excellent protection against the elements and reducing the overall weight of the firearm.
One of the notable features of the Benelli Nova is its modular design. The forend is often molded as part of the forearm, providing a sleek appearance and reducing potential points of failure. Additionally, the loading port has been designed with ease of use in mind.
The stock is often made of a durable synthetic material, which contributes to the Nova’s weather resistance. The stock is built for comfort. The overall length and weight will vary slightly depending on the barrel length selected, but the Nova in 20 Gauge is generally considered to be lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it a comfortable choice for a wide range of shooters. Sights generally include a front bead sight, which is perfectly adequate for quick target acquisition in a variety of shooting scenarios. The finish tends to be non-reflective matte black, helping the gun blend into the surroundings while hunting.
Performance and Handling: Put to the Test
A review of the Benelli Nova 20 Gauge would not be complete without a discussion of its performance in the field and at the range.
The shooting experience with the Nova is generally positive. While pump-action shotguns inherently involve more recoil than semi-automatic models, the 20-gauge chambering provides a more gentle experience than a 12-gauge, reducing shooter fatigue. The design of the stock and the overall weight of the firearm further mitigate recoil, making it manageable for extended shooting sessions.
Accuracy is another important aspect of performance. The Nova’s accuracy, like most shotguns, is largely dependent on the choke being used and the ammunition. However, the overall build quality ensures that the gun will consistently hit where it’s aimed.
Reliability is where the Benelli Nova 20 Gauge truly shines. The pump-action design is inherently reliable. The gun is designed to function in a variety of conditions and with a range of ammunition types.
The Benelli Nova 20 Gauge handles well in the hands. The balance of the shotgun is well-distributed, making it easy to swing and track moving targets. The forend provides a secure grip, even with wet hands. The ergonomics are well-considered. The length of pull is standard, making it suitable for a wide range of shooters.
The Benelli Nova: Built to Last
The construction of the Benelli Nova is a testament to its durability.
The high-strength composite receiver is impervious to rust and corrosion, and the barrel is made from quality steel designed to withstand heavy use. The stock and forend are made from sturdy synthetic materials that can resist bumps, scrapes, and the harsh environments.
The overall build quality is excellent, reflecting Benelli’s commitment to producing firearms built to last. The Nova is built to withstand the rigors of use and the elements, making it a reliable choice for those who rely on their firearms in demanding conditions.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
No firearm is perfect, and a fair review must acknowledge both the strengths and weaknesses of a product.
Advantages:
Reliability: The pump-action design, coupled with quality construction, makes the Nova incredibly reliable. The gun will typically cycle many types of shells.
Affordability: Compared to some other shotguns on the market, the Benelli Nova 20 Gauge offers a good value for its price. The gun provides a high level of quality at a reasonable price point.
Durability: The gun is designed for heavy use and is weather resistant. The synthetic components resist damage.
Ease of Use: Operating the gun is simple. The Nova offers quick loading and unloading.
Disadvantages:
Action Feel: Some shooters might find the pump action to be a bit stiff, especially when the gun is new. A bit of use helps resolve this.
Aftermarket Support: Compared to some other popular shotgun models, the aftermarket support may be limited, with fewer customization options available.
Weight Considerations: While the gun is relatively lightweight, some shooters may prefer an even lighter weight option, especially for extended carrying.
Comparing the Benelli Nova to Its Rivals
In the crowded shotgun market, the Benelli Nova 20 Gauge faces competition from other reliable brands. To put it in context, let’s compare it to a few of its rivals.
The Remington 870, for example, has been a mainstay for decades. The Remington 870 offers a similar pump-action design and a high level of reliability, making it a comparable option for both hunting and personal defense. However, the Benelli Nova may offer an edge in terms of its resistance to the elements.
The Mossberg 500 is another popular pump-action shotgun. The Mossberg 500 generally offers a slightly lower price point. The Benelli Nova, on the other hand, often has a reputation for greater overall build quality and durability.
The primary differences between these shotguns often center around individual preferences regarding feel, ergonomics, and the particular use case.
Price and Value: A Smart Investment?
The Benelli Nova 20 Gauge offers an excellent value proposition. The price point is competitive when considering the quality of the build, the performance, and the overall reliability of the firearm.
The Nova competes with some of the best shotguns on the market. The Benelli Nova’s build quality, performance, and reliability make it an excellent investment for anyone looking for a dependable pump-action shotgun.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The Benelli Nova 20 Gauge is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable, rugged, and versatile pump-action shotgun. It excels in reliability and durability. It performs well across a range of shooting scenarios. The Nova is a workhorse that will stand up to the elements and perform consistently.
For anyone looking for a solid shotgun to take into the field, or to protect their home, the Benelli Nova 20 Gauge is a worthwhile consideration. The gun is easy to use. It’s reliable, and it provides a good value for the price.
In conclusion, this Benelli Nova 20 Gauge review concludes that it is a highly recommended firearm. If you are looking for a reliable, durable, and well-performing pump-action shotgun, the Benelli Nova 20 Gauge should definitely be on your list.
