The Benelli Nova Tactical 7+1 is a formidable pump-action shotgun known for its reliability, ruggedness, and versatility. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and suitability for various applications, from home defense to tactical situations. We'll examine what makes this shotgun a favorite among many and delve into its pros and cons.
Understanding the Benelli Nova Tactical's Design
The Nova Tactical's design emphasizes simplicity and robust functionality. Unlike some shotguns with complex mechanisms, the Nova boasts a straightforward pump-action system that is highly reliable even under harsh conditions. This simplicity contributes to its ease of maintenance and cleaning.
Key Features:
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Capacity: The name itself hints at its capacity: 7+1 (seven rounds in the magazine tube plus one in the chamber). This high capacity is a significant advantage in tactical situations or for home defense where rapid follow-up shots might be crucial.
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Inert Gas System: Unlike traditional recoil-operated shotguns, the Nova utilizes an inertia-driven system. This means that the bolt remains stationary until the recoil energy overcomes its inertia, leading to smoother operation and reduced felt recoil. This is especially noticeable during rapid firing.
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Durable Construction: The receiver is made of robust polymer, making it lightweight yet incredibly strong and resistant to damage. The steel barrel is chrome-lined for enhanced corrosion resistance and longevity.
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Tactical Features: The Nova Tactical comes equipped with various tactical features, including a ghost ring sight system for quick target acquisition. It also often features a shortened barrel length, providing improved maneuverability in tight spaces. Some models offer Picatinny rails for mounting accessories like tactical lights or lasers.
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Ease of Use: The pump action is smooth and intuitive, making it easy to learn and use, even for novice shooters. The simple design translates to quick and easy maintenance.
Performance and Handling
The Nova Tactical delivers reliable performance, even with various ammunition types. Its inertia-driven system minimizes recoil, which is crucial for comfortable and accurate shooting, especially during rapid firing sequences. The short barrel contributes to quick target acquisition and maneuverability.
Ammunition Considerations:
The Benelli Nova Tactical is generally reliable with a wide range of shotgun ammunition, from low-recoil birdshot to high-powered slugs. However, always consult the owner's manual for recommendations on appropriate ammunition types and loads to ensure safe and reliable operation. Experimentation with various types can help determine what works best for your specific shooting needs and preferences.
Practical Applications:
The Benelli Nova Tactical finds its place in several applications:
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Home Defense: The high capacity, relatively low recoil, and ease of use make it suitable for home defense. Its simple mechanism is less prone to malfunctions under stressful situations.
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Tactical Use: Law enforcement and military personnel may find the Nova Tactical useful due to its reliability and high capacity.
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Hunting (Specific Applications): While not ideal for all hunting applications, it's suitable for close-quarters hunting scenarios or situations requiring a powerful, reliable shotgun. For longer ranges, its accuracy might be a limiting factor.
Comparison to Competitors:
The Benelli Nova Tactical competes with other pump-action shotguns, including the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500. While these models also offer reliability, the Nova's inertia-driven system offers a distinct advantage in terms of reduced recoil and smoother operation.
| Feature | Benelli Nova Tactical | Remington 870 | Mossberg 500 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Inertia Driven | Recoil Operated | Recoil Operated |
| Recoil | Lower | Higher | Higher |
| Durability | High | High | High |
| Ease of Cleaning | Easy | Relatively Easy | Relatively Easy |
| Price | Mid-range | Mid-range | Mid-range |
Conclusion:
The Benelli Nova Tactical 7+1 is a rugged, reliable, and versatile pump-action shotgun. Its simple yet effective design, high capacity, and low recoil make it a strong contender for home defense, tactical applications, and specific hunting situations. While not a perfect shotgun for every scenario, its strengths in reliability and ease of use make it a popular and valuable choice for many. Before purchasing, always handle and shoot the shotgun if possible to ensure it feels comfortable and fits your needs.