How do you improve on a shotgun that dominates the waterfowl world and is already considered the best in its class? Start by making magazine loading a whole lot easier with a beveled loading port and redesigned carrier, and reshape the trigger geometry. Then make the bolt release larger, add a new cheek comb pad on the stock, and call it the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3. The latest iteration of the 25-year-old household name in waterfowl guns—which actually weighs less than the SBE2—rolled out in January 2017, but American Rifleman editors had an advance look at the gun back in December 2016. Mark Keefe had even more time to play with this fast-handling 3 1/2" gun during Range Day just prior to SHOT Show 2017, and you can see exclusive videos of the SBE3 here, both from SHOT Show and the afternoon at the clays range in Virginia. For more information, visit benelliusa.com.
SHOT Show 2017: Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 Shotgun
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
10 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know About The Smith & Wesson Model 29
Without a doubt, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 is one of the 20th century’s most shootable, collectible "superstar" revolvers. Here are a few little-known facts about the gun.
Packable Punch: Discreet Ways to Carry More Firepower
While folding and takedown firearms chambered for full-power rifle cartridges may be niche defensive tools, the dark situations in which they shine brightest aren’t going away anytime soon.
Southpaw Solution: Ruger Introduces Left-Handed American Gen II Ranch Rifles
Traditionally, Ruger has offered a range of left-handed rifle models for the southpaws among us, and now, the company's Gen II American rifles are available in a left-handed variant, starting with the Ranch models.
Gun of the Week: Kimber 1911 DS Warrior LW
In 2026, Kimber developed its 1911 DS Warrior, an American-made, double-stack design that is intended to be an affordable entry point into Kimber's double-stack handgun line.
The Armed Citizen® April 24, 2026
Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.
Spin Difference: The Impact of Barrel Twist Rates on Terminal Performance
When most shooters think of rifling-twist rates, they mostly think of rifles with their high BC projectiles, but the rpm of a bullet also plays a part in terminal performance.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
