I have the A400 and the SBE3, I haven't used the SBE3 in a couple of years. What did it for me was the non traditional firing positions form ground blinds for geese. The A400 never failed to cycle. where as the SBE3 would fail to cycle on a number of occasions. The kick off paired with the falcon strike recoil pad made the A400 a no brainer.
I've been avidly hunting waterfowl for 30 years now and I've seen this same thing with benelli. They also do not seem to like moisture or dirt at all.. Great upland guns.
Holding/mounting the benelli even slightly wrong can induce malfunctions. I always say that yes, they don’t need cleaned often, but guess what? Neither do quality gas systems like the beretta. Looking filthy and actually needing cleaned to run are two entirely separate things.
Crazy you say that bought an SBE 3 in 20 last October, I’m about 1200 rounds in with trap and clay courses, never once has it failed to cycle or any kind of malfunction. One of the best if not the best gun I’ve ever purchased, haven’t picked up my 12 since last dove season, it’s all personal preference but Benelli is pretty much king in the shogun world.
@@markrzepkowski2951 Same here, I have the SBE 2, never had it fail to load. But, we are waterfowl hunters, we clean actions at the end of every day to ready for the next morning. All internal parts are wiped with BreakFree. Very simple firearm to maintain.
Before you picked the winner, I chose the A400. But then again I bought the A400 after watching your review on it. Also it fit right off the shelf with no adjustments. Love it so much, I bought another one in 20 gauge. Keep up the awesome videos, stay safe, and God Bless.
I have 3 A400’s. Two 12g and one 20g. I also have the SBEIII 20g. Shoot 3” #6’s with all of them. The SBEIII 20 recoil with waterfowl loads isn’t fun when you have shoulder issues. SBEIII hasn’t left my safe in 2 years.
What's kinda silly about buying shotguns is you rarely get a chance to try them out. Some clubs (not all) have rentals but usually limited choices. Unless your buddy has a shotgun that he will let ya try it''s difficult to know if a gun fits you. It's easy to fall in love with a gun behind the counter at the store but if you buy it and can't hit anything with it you now own a 8 lb paperweight. I think your unbiased assessment of the guns you review is spot on and agree with you on most things. Keep the reviews coming!
Love the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus. I chose this shotgun as a birthday gift for my father and wanted it to have less recoil for him to be more comfortable to shoot.
I bought a new SBE2 20 years ago. Traded in a Remington 1100 for it. Always had problems with the SBE2. Tried to love it. Always jammed. Sent it to the factory several times. This year I finally traded in the SBE2 for an A400 and it's amazing! Never jams. Great feel. Recoil is light. Love the oversized controls. A400 is way better than the SBE.
As a Shotgun warranty gunsmith, I can state that the steel on the Benelli is better than the Beretta. As well, on the A400, the bolt carrier is welded on to the bolt and are known to break at the weld. Replacing it is around $400. Just a heads up.
I'm an English shooter. I own a Berretta Al391 and also the Benelli Supersport. The Supersport is the English version of the SBE3. Now reasons not to like the Beretta range! the loading port bends over time and causes cartridge jams all the time,I've have friends who've had the same problem with the A400's. Now in England we cannot get a new loading port and end up bending the port back with a screw driver. As to the recoil system. yes the Beretta has the recoil kick off system. Now stand at the side of someone shooting the Benelli and watch the chevrons in the stock compress when they shoot. Yup it has it's own recoil damping system. When I bought the Benelli I didn't clean it for 2 years,the Beretta was pretty much every 2 months. I'd never go back to a gas gun
@@dennisreid4428lol I clean my gas operated browning maxus twice a year. Once before trap/skeet season (200rds/week) and once before upland/waterfowl season (50-150 shells/week)
I've got a SBE3 and had it for four seasons now. When I bought it, it came down to these to guns. The Benelli just felt better in my hands, but after 4 years of use, I'm getting the beretta this year.
Same here Catdozerboy12. I like the Beretta better too. So much in fact that I just bought an A400 Upland. I shot one, fell in love with it and mine will be at the gun shop tomorrow. It's going to be my dove, quail and clays shotgun. My O/U's just kick too much for me these days.
I’ve been shooting the same SBE3 since 2017. I’ve killed multiple turkeys and hundreds of ducks and geese. I have not kept a round count but I’d imagine somewhere around 4000 shells total between target loads and waterfowl loads. It has jammed on me one time. And I believe it was because the charging handle hit my hand went shooting basically upside down from a layout blind. My best friend shoots an A400 and makes fun of my benelli. Both of us shoot our guns extremely well. I just prefer the slenderness and lighter weight of the SBE3. The A400 is just too chonky for me. And I’ve heard about bolts cracking and receivers bending. I really think for anyone it comes down to preference in how it feels in your hands… still don’t know how ergonomics goes to the A400 when it’s a pound heavier and feels like a “2x4” lol
I own both. Shoot both well and agree with your scores. However, you need to add one more item; cleaning. The Benelli is way more easier to clean than the Beretta.
I had always been a Benelli shooter (I have a number of them) and really like them. Until I got a SBE111. I spent a season shooting over all the birds. I use a ShotKam and could see where I was shooting. After trying to correct my shooting I sold the 111 and got a 400 Extreme Plus. Love it, it shoots where I point. I do have a Benelli M2 that I really like and it kills ducks no problem. Can’t explain the 111 but it had to go. I shoot a lot of clays off season and am confident when I shoot, but the 111 was off.
I saw your review on the A400 and your video made me decide to go with it. I was looking to upgrade from my Remington Versa Max and I had narrowed it down to either an A5 Browning or the A400. I wasn't especially crazy about an inertia gun, and I'm glad I got the Beretta. I've had it for 2 years now. Been on 2 conservation snow goose hunts in Arkansas and this year will make the 2nd year I've taken to Missouri to duck hunt. I dove hunted with it last year as well. Flawless cycling of any type of shell I run through it!
After watching countless videos from you I went with the A400 Extreme last year and have absolutely love it and it's a joy to shoot. I almost didn't get it at first because of the 2x 4 feel but it wound up feeling so natural. Thanks for your videos.
I bought my A400 XP bc of your vids and trying to make an educated buy. It was hard initially because growing up I would always hear benelli is the best there is but dude I love the A400 so much after a year of ownership. I go to shoots and people see the gun perform and ask what it is. About to buy my gf a 940 pro sporting. Thanks Steve.
I have a A400 in 12 & 20. Tried to like the SBE3 a few different times in both 12 & 20 and all of the Benelli’s shot high and left. I’ve since sold all of the Benelli’s and bought more A400s
Every Benelli I have shoots high and left. I built a barrel bender and got my oldest one to shoot true. But I put a .130 bend in and looking at the front bead was impossible so I put it back to shooting high and dead center. Several ppl I know have contacted Benelli w this issue and received a unsatisfactory response.
Funny how you give the SBE3 a slight edge in the looks department when you comment on it, but then score them both at 8.5. Then in the very next segment of ergonomics, you give the A400 a slight edge and score it 8 and 9.5 in favor of the Beretta. I know you were not likely to pick the SBE3, but you need to let go of your gas gun bias...at least a little bit. I still really enjoy your videos. Keep up the god work.
I "grew up" on SBE3's, so I'm definitely biased. I was given an A400 once. I had nothing but problems with it. I think it was something to do with that particular gun, though, and not all A400's. I agree with Steve, that the A400 is an incredibly good shooting gun, especially with larger loads. But I just can't get past the unparalleled reliability of the SBE3.
I really enjoy your shotgun reviews. Your reviews and my research have ultimately led me to order the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus in the OD Green color. Pairing it with a Muller Passing choke and Boss Warchief shells. I’m really looking forward to duck season now! Thanks to you and Joel with SurvivingDuckSeason for helping me with my choice!
I have and I think prefer the A400, it points so well, kicks so soft, and it cycles lighter target loads. One big thing I think you should test is how well the 12 gauge autoloaders cycle 1 ounce at 1180 shells and maybe even some super light target loads. That cuts more recoil from target shooting than almost any other feature. I think they are both great and I could totally recommend either shotgun depending on what/how you hunt.
I’ve been hunting waterfowl like a madman for 30 years. The inertia bolt recharge is the most reliable action. The first of these shotguns is actually made by Heckler & Koch then Benelli purchased the patent. I shoot a first gen black eagle I purchased retail for $700. It’s been underwater multiple times and never misfired once. I wouldn’t trade my old one for five new ones.
Ive got the original SBE and have shot thousands of rounds through it for 20 years. They may have come a long way with gas in the last 20 years but being a guide in water fowl and laying in muddy fields ive seen far to many have issues. Havent had to replace anything on it either, nice video tho.
After watching your videos previous to this showdown I went with the A400! And this solidified the choice…also found a really good sale I couldn’t pass up. Keep up the great content
Last year I was between the SBE3, Magnus II, and the A400 (all 12 gauge). I didn't get to shoot any of them prior to purchase, so I chose the SBE3 due to in hand feel and the BEST coating. I've shot the SBE3 on 5-6 trips now and love it. It wasn't an easy choice and I think I would have been just as happy with the other two. SBE3 BEST: love the durability (salty California areas), love how it shoots. Hate the black BEST color. Magnus II: American brand (kind of), loved the vintage tan camo, gas + Target Focused Life seemed to have this as #1 last year for the grouping A400: didn't like the camo patterns as much, bulkier in hand, However, I met a rep in Yuma for the dove opener last year, he almost had me purchasing on the spot.
I have the Beretta. I had intended on purchasing a different shotgun primarily based on overall appeal and name recognition. Though it is a bit bulky I don’t mind and I’m not disappointed
Id love to find an 1100 in 16 gauge with removable choke tubes. I've only ever seen one for sale and I bid it up well over 2500 and still didn't get it
Definitely a "ford vs. chevy" choice in my opinion. Both are good quality and reputable brands. Boils down to personal preference and feel in your hand. I will say with absolute confidence Benelli shotguns are the least reliable guns I have ever walked a wild pheasant field with. Been hunting in South Dakota for 26 seasons now and that fact has remained constant. Not hating on Benelli. They make a fine gun. They unfortunately become single shot malfunction machines in the pheasant field. They come out of battery while walking and give people that famous "benelli click". This is usually immediately followed by a litany of cuss words........ This includes the newest ones made as well.
This will be my 4th hunting season using an A400, I’ve put ~15,000 rounds through it between hunting and clays. Agree with you on the ergonomics. When I first bought it -after using an interia gun for several years- I did not like the feel of the A400 and initially wanted to sell it. As I shot it more though I really fell in love with it and once I was used to it, I can shoot that a400 better than anything else I’ve used.
Surprise surprise, who would've thought that a target shooter would prefer the heavier, softer shooting, larger profile gas gun that more closely resembles a target gun lol. These are both fantastic guns within the class, the two best really but they aren't really comparable in a lot of ways. The Benelli pulls favor from the coastal and backwoods/flooded timber hunters who hunt in harsher conditions where an intertia gun shines. Ergos are subjective but rarely have I heard a buddy pick the A400 over the SBE3 in terms of ergos. I usually get a new waterfowl gun every 2-3 years and I am now on my third SBE3. I've also had a Super Vinci, a SBE2 and the original HK/Benelli Super 90/M1 before that so I have been on the Benelli train for quite some time now. Amongst our group it's pretty split between these two guns but there's a slight edge to the number of Benelli's in the blind. I accept the harsher recoil and the more muzzle rise of the inertia gun because I favor slimmer ergos, simpler design and function and better reliability in harsher conditions. We hunt the saltwater marshes and flooded rice fields of the Texas coastline and down here the Benelli king. I'd personally love to have both of these guns but I just can't justify that. The Maxus, A5 and XLR5 are all great waterfowl options as well that should get some consideration amongst perspective buyers. It's a shame that Winchester ruined the SX4 because their SX3 was a pretty solid performer at a great price point.
I personally have a left handed/left eject M2 in 20 gauge, and really like the weight of it compared to the A300's I've rented at the range (which I don't believe comes with a left eject option).
Sometime I dream of an A400 with carbon fibre Cerakoted exterior with 100% machined titanium internals and stainless steel barrel. But then I wake up to a plastic A400 and still love it anyway.
I love my SBE 3. Great gun . The only thing I do not like about it is that the safety can be easily, unintentionally disengaged especially when wearing gloves.
I used to have both. They can cycle 2 3/4 dram 1 oz. target loads without problem but not the 24 grams international loads. I sold the A400 a few months ago. By the time I was still cleaning the gas components of the A400, I could clean the SBE3 twice.
@@leeturner3143 it's not that bad, same as Benelli SBE3. If you're going to buy an inertia gun, go Franchi. I'd opt for the 3 inch over the 3.5. With the tungsten type of shot shell, I don't know why anybody needs 3.5 anymore. As far as gas guns go, I guess Beretta is fine. My biggest issue with them is where they put the safety, it's something I can't use personally.
Don’t own either one and happen to live in CA close enough to the delta so I could easily hunt if I want. While at a local gun shop I was able to handle both after watching some videos of yours and luckily “pointability” stuck in my head. I chose a spot on the wall and let each one tell me which was easier to point. Initially I wanted the SBE and now I’m heavily leaving towards the A400. It feels better, and the heavier front makes it a little more predictable I guess one could say.
I love the a400 family. Have several. Cole’s will do a trigger job on them for a cheap price and it’s worth every penny. It lightens the trigger break and takes out the slop. And you can call and order one and they will mail you the trigger assembly to just swap out.
The safety alone sold me on the Benelli I bought one. I don’t like a safety in front of the trigger guard just me. I also have the Franchi Affinity, not quit a Benelli but very very close
Why wouldn’t you want the safety where your finger naturally rides? Instead of having to come back behind the trigger and then into position, you can just deactivate the safety as you pull your finger into position.
@@HB-uk9qc That’s a reasonable answer. If I was forced into a rear safety I would be looking for options like the Vang Comp dome head safety so that my finger can actuate it naturally. I know they make Remington ones, take a look and see if they make one for you. Like $20 or something.
I like the super Vinci but as a general public waterfowler I get very few to no opportunities with the dead sky. Never jams as long as you use the oils they give you.
@TargetFocusedLifeReview have you ever done a review on the 1301? I understand it's not really in your wheelhouse, but I'd love to hear your thoughts on them
Glad to see the show downs back. 😊 We're over due for a Side x Side review Steve. Orion SBS ? Maybe CZ All Terrain over understanding. All terrain series are great for water fowlers !
I have 2 of each.....fancy for skeet days and waterfowl versions for hunting. Thousands of rounds thru each of them. A400 all day. They point better I hit better Recoil is better Controls are 100% better. Newbies hit better Welded bolt or not, the A400 is Just BETTER.
Have to go with the A400. I like a gas gun, due to recoil absorption. And a bit forward heavy, makes for a nice swinging gun. Great video. Thanks for sharing.
I have the Xtreme plus. The BSBE is simply overrated. I tried the SBE, but landed on Berettas simply because of recoil. When your glasses flew off it was a great way to show people just how much more recoil the SBE has. Thanks for your input Steve. I think you were actually a little generous when it came down to the SBE.
If Benellis shot a true 60/40 pattern I’d buy 2 of em & never need another shotgun. They’re by far the most reliable & easiest to clean. They just don’t shoot straight.
Sba3 all day, reason : shot one for years on ducks and turkeys for probably close to 12 years prior it was the M2 my ultimate favorite and my sons favorite for 5 years I wanted to like theA400 because it looks so cool and i had a awesome deal on one but couldn’t”t get used to the chunky feel especially with how much we walk and wade here in Florida. Just my opinion
Sba3 all day reason : shot one for years on ducks and turkeys for probably close to 12 years prior it was the M2 my ultimate favorite and my sons favorite for 5 years I wanted to like theA400 because it looks so cool and i had a awesome deal on one but couldn’t”t get used to the chunky feel
A400 extreme plus, I own one hunt with it hard. Reliable all do no matter the temp. Never had a misfire of any kind. Love how it handles recoil. Shooting 3.5 in shells can hurt when you go snow goose hunting and get into heavy birds. The price is high but you will not need to buy another gun for at least ten years so do the math I say worth it.
I have been shooting an SBE2 12 gauge for 19 years and a SBE1 before that. I prefer the lighter front end. I feel like I can get on target faster. Recoil has never bothered me. I don’t know about the SBE3 12g but based on my past experience, I would probably choose it over the Beretta. I also have an SBE3 20 gage which I think is a great super quick handling 20. All references to duck hunting.
I had a sbe 3 12g and m2 20g, sbe shot way high finish had worn bad and poa was horribly inconsistent and it jammed, not a lot but more then it should. I called benelli and cs told me to put a huge bead on it and said more or less your problem not ours. M2 was nice but took a hammer to load, very stiff. I sold both bought 12 and 20 a 400 and they are awesome. Benelli in my opinion is not a horrible gun just way to many issues for me, btw good video thank you
Have shot them both quite a bit. Can’t go wrong with either. A400 shoots very soft with the kickoff system. But I prefer the SBE3 for the ergonomics, the simple breakdown, and how clean it stays.
I chose the a400 for myself and a sbe3 20ga for my 11yo I can say they each have their strengths and weaknesses the a400is definitely the more reliable option in North Dakota temps and I haven’t missed anything yet on a hunt. But the 20ga sbe3 is a laser beam in my sons hands
Keep em both, I have Benelli Vinci and nothing comes close. I've shot SBE 3 and Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus, (that is the gun my son shoots) the Vinci just handles different, I can feel it when I shoot them all in rotation. There is a physical difference I can feel in shooting it compared to the other 2. For reference I"m 6' and 220 lbs.
I have both, and they are both great guns for two totally different reasons A400 for Turkeys 3 1/2" shells thru this gun are a dream compared to the SBE3, now duck and goose late season covered with ice and snow Benelli failed to bring up my second shot, during cold weather the second shots were slow to reload, SBE3 just keeps jamming the shells in there and never gave up. It's fun to carry the Browning Synergy in the field, and someone asks how I like it and only having two shots, I reply if I need more shots I can get my backup guns and when they find out what my backup guns are they shake their heads. Now if you want to carry a heavier gun all day grab the A400, all day carry goes to the SBE3, the first thing the SBE3 did was go swimming in the mud next to our blind, just picked it out and wiped it off and whaled away from then on, needless to say I was impressed. Maybe my tests are a little more rigorous than yours but that's real life. You're right about one thing both are great guns and if you have to choose buy both.
On the TFL shotgun finder under waterfowl guns and if you filter by overall score high to low. The A400 is listed 1st and the SBE3 is listed down in the 18th spot I have always been a fan of Benelli but after shooting an A400. That will be my next waterfowl gun. I do think you are paying $500-700 more than you should for each gun just because of their names.
Honestly to me there both good guns and it came down to what kinda of hunting you do. If your private land going to a blind in a side by side go with a400. If your hunting public and walking alot go with the benelli. As a public land hunter I can't see myself carrying bag,decoys,and a heavy ass a400. Also my grand dad has been shooting a m1 super 90 for over 10 years and passed it down to me.
Not even close. A400 is way better. I have 2 of them. I only know one dude who has a SBE3 and he can’t get it to shoot anything but a foot high and left. Benelli says it isn’t their problem and it was designed that way. BS. I like my shotguns to hit what I point them at.
100% SBE. Pretty much every reason that you liked the A400, is why I don't. LOL..the 2x4 feel, LOP, large handle and button. Perhaps it is because I have shot a 12g SBE since 2001, a 12g M2 for the last 3 years, and just purchased a SBE3 28. They feel right. I looked at the Beretta when getting the 28, and it was fine.. but the Benelli felt comfortable....like home.
As a man who is 6’5 and 245 lbs. The Beretta feels great in hand, has great point and shoot feel and does not fail to shoot. I was in Wyoming w 6 other guys in 10 below zero weather. All other hunters has Benellis. ALL click w no shot. I shot first 4 ducks w my A400 while they watched in misery. This guy is built like a 14 yr old boy. If you are man sized, you will have no problem handling an A400. 😂. Jk. The length of forearm on the Beretta is great for a man with long arms. I may also add Beretta OWNS Benelli. Pretty much all high volume wing shooting outfits in South America run Berettas for a reason……
I’ve bought 3 SBE3s 28gauge 12gauge and a B.E.ST 12gauge. The only one that has cost me over 2k was my 12gauge SBE3 B.E.ST. Your regular SBE3 should run you $1.7k maybe $1.9k after taxes.
The real comparison between two types of weapons is shooting at paper targets and knowing the style of each type in terms of hitting the target accurately and beautifully, not shooting in the air.
Beretta all day, everyday! Been shooting my Beretta A391 extrema 2 for years now, still smooth as butter.
I have the A400 and i absolutely love it!
I have the A400 and the SBE3, I haven't used the SBE3 in a couple of years. What did it for me was the non traditional firing positions form ground blinds for geese. The A400 never failed to cycle. where as the SBE3 would fail to cycle on a number of occasions. The kick off paired with the falcon strike recoil pad made the A400 a no brainer.
I've been avidly hunting waterfowl for 30 years now and I've seen this same thing with benelli. They also do not seem to like moisture or dirt at all.. Great upland guns.
Holding/mounting the benelli even slightly wrong can induce malfunctions.
I always say that yes, they don’t need cleaned often, but guess what? Neither do quality gas systems like the beretta. Looking filthy and actually needing cleaned to run are two entirely separate things.
Crazy you say that bought an SBE 3 in 20 last October, I’m about 1200 rounds in with trap and clay courses, never once has it failed to cycle or any kind of malfunction. One of the best if not the best gun I’ve ever purchased, haven’t picked up my 12 since last dove season, it’s all personal preference but Benelli is pretty much king in the shogun world.
@@markrzepkowski2951you gotta try firing from different positions waterfowl hunting, that’s where the issues arise. Otherwise they’re great
@@markrzepkowski2951 Same here, I have the SBE 2, never had it fail to load. But, we are waterfowl hunters, we clean actions at the end of every day to ready for the next morning. All internal parts are wiped with BreakFree. Very simple firearm to maintain.
I traded my SBE3 for an A400 extreme plus Mossy oak. Happy as can be... No more shooting high and mule kicks!
No friggin way, I’ve been looking up thisssss video for months!!! Hoping you’d come out with this!! All morning this morning too!!!😂 thank you!!
Haha ... exactly ... where was this video last year
Before you picked the winner, I chose the A400. But then again I bought the A400 after watching your review on it. Also it fit right off the shelf with no adjustments. Love it so much, I bought another one in 20 gauge. Keep up the awesome videos, stay safe, and God Bless.
I have 3 A400’s. Two 12g and one 20g. I also have the SBEIII 20g. Shoot 3” #6’s with all of them. The SBEIII 20 recoil with waterfowl loads isn’t fun when you have shoulder issues. SBEIII hasn’t left my safe in 2 years.
I went with the A400. I didn't like the thin feel to the SBE. Love the Beretta, no regrets at all on that purchase.
Couldn't agree more with both statements.
What's kinda silly about buying shotguns is you rarely get a chance to try them out. Some clubs (not all) have rentals but usually limited choices. Unless your buddy has a shotgun that he will let ya try it''s difficult to know if a gun fits you. It's easy to fall in love with a gun behind the counter at the store but if you buy it and can't hit anything with it you now own a 8 lb paperweight. I think your unbiased assessment of the guns you review is spot on and agree with you on most things. Keep the reviews coming!
Love the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus. I chose this shotgun as a birthday gift for my father and wanted it to have less recoil for him to be more comfortable to shoot.
I bought a new SBE2 20 years ago. Traded in a Remington 1100 for it. Always had problems with the SBE2. Tried to love it. Always jammed. Sent it to the factory several times. This year I finally traded in the SBE2 for an A400 and it's amazing! Never jams. Great feel. Recoil is light. Love the oversized controls. A400 is way better than the SBE.
As a Shotgun warranty gunsmith, I can state that the steel on the Benelli is better than the Beretta. As well, on the A400, the bolt carrier is welded on to the bolt and are known to break at the weld. Replacing it is around $400. Just a heads up.
I'm an English shooter. I own a Berretta Al391 and also the Benelli Supersport. The Supersport is the English version of the SBE3. Now reasons not to like the Beretta range! the loading port bends over time and causes cartridge jams all the time,I've have friends who've had the same problem with the A400's. Now in England we cannot get a new loading port and end up bending the port back with a screw driver. As to the recoil system. yes the Beretta has the recoil kick off system. Now stand at the side of someone shooting the Benelli and watch the chevrons in the stock compress when they shoot. Yup it has it's own recoil damping system. When I bought the Benelli I didn't clean it for 2 years,the Beretta was pretty much every 2 months. I'd never go back to a gas gun
@@dennisreid4428lol I clean my gas operated browning maxus twice a year. Once before trap/skeet season (200rds/week) and once before upland/waterfowl season (50-150 shells/week)
I'm the world champion of the world
The steel is better in the Benelli? What do you mean by the steel? And is the bolt carrier problem even really a big deal? Or does it not happen much
So it’s garbage. Who would’ve thought that from a beretta.
I've got a SBE3 and had it for four seasons now. When I bought it, it came down to these to guns. The Benelli just felt better in my hands, but after 4 years of use, I'm getting the beretta this year.
Wise choice sir!
I have both , I wouldn’t recommend the a400 but hey , maybe you’ll like it maybe try a buddy’s first if you know anyone
As someone who owns these 2 exact guns also. I prefer the Beretta honestly
Same here Catdozerboy12. I like the Beretta better too. So much in fact that I just bought an A400 Upland. I shot one, fell in love with it and mine will be at the gun shop tomorrow. It's going to be my dove, quail and clays shotgun. My O/U's just kick too much for me these days.
As a gunsmith, I like both these guns a lot, but I’d rather clean an inertia gun over a gas any day🙂
I went back and forth on these and ended up with a Fabarm xlr5 Waterfowler. Best Italian auto loader! Build quality and handling is next level.
the most legendary showdown to hit the channel thanks for all the hard work steve truly you are the undisputed king of shotguns👑
I’ve been shooting the same SBE3 since 2017. I’ve killed multiple turkeys and hundreds of ducks and geese. I have not kept a round count but I’d imagine somewhere around 4000 shells total between target loads and waterfowl loads. It has jammed on me one time. And I believe it was because the charging handle hit my hand went shooting basically upside down from a layout blind. My best friend shoots an A400 and makes fun of my benelli. Both of us shoot our guns extremely well. I just prefer the slenderness and lighter weight of the SBE3. The A400 is just too chonky for me. And I’ve heard about bolts cracking and receivers bending. I really think for anyone it comes down to preference in how it feels in your hands… still don’t know how ergonomics goes to the A400 when it’s a pound heavier and feels like a “2x4” lol
I own both. Shoot both well and agree with your scores. However, you need to add one more item; cleaning. The Benelli is way more easier to clean than the Beretta.
I had always been a Benelli shooter (I have a number of them) and really like them. Until I got a SBE111. I spent a season shooting over all the birds. I use a ShotKam and could see where I was shooting.
After trying to correct my shooting I sold the 111 and got a 400 Extreme Plus. Love it, it shoots where I point. I do have a Benelli M2 that I really like and it kills ducks no problem. Can’t explain the 111 but it had to go. I shoot a lot of clays off season and am confident when I shoot, but the 111 was off.
I have beretta A400 Extreme Plus and it’s absolutely amazing I wouldn’t change it for anything smooth shooting and tough as nails
I saw your review on the A400 and your video made me decide to go with it. I was looking to upgrade from my Remington Versa Max and I had narrowed it down to either an A5 Browning or the A400. I wasn't especially crazy about an inertia gun, and I'm glad I got the Beretta. I've had it for 2 years now. Been on 2 conservation snow goose hunts in Arkansas and this year will make the 2nd year I've taken to Missouri to duck hunt. I dove hunted with it last year as well. Flawless cycling of any type of shell I run through it!
I have the A400 20 gauge and 12 guage.. I switched after years of shooting the 300 extrema ..love beretta shot guns ..
Thanks, answered all my questions. My friends love the A400 and I'll go with that. Buy once, cry once I guess.
After watching countless videos from you I went with the A400 Extreme last year and have absolutely love it and it's a joy to shoot. I almost didn't get it at first because of the 2x 4 feel but it wound up feeling so natural. Thanks for your videos.
I bought my A400 XP bc of your vids and trying to make an educated buy. It was hard initially because growing up I would always hear benelli is the best there is but dude I love the A400 so much after a year of ownership. I go to shoots and people see the gun perform and ask what it is. About to buy my gf a 940 pro sporting.
Thanks Steve.
I bought a A400Extreme last year when Cabela’s had a rebate on them. So far I’ve absolutely loved it such an awesome gun
Me, too. I've shot Benelli for 20 years and love that A400.
I have 10K + on my early A400, I already know the answer. I can remember one FTE out of all of those 2/3rds being target stuff.
I’ve got 15k through my a400 in 2 years. Great shooting gun. Low recoil and reliable. I did have to add a pound of weight to it for myself.
I have a A400 in 12 & 20. Tried to like the SBE3 a few different times in both 12 & 20 and all of the Benelli’s shot high and left. I’ve since sold all of the Benelli’s and bought more A400s
Every Benelli I have shoots high and left. I built a barrel bender and got my oldest one to shoot true. But I put a .130 bend in and looking at the front bead was impossible so I put it back to shooting high and dead center. Several ppl I know have contacted Benelli w this issue and received a unsatisfactory response.
Same situation. Tried to love my SBEs. Got rid of my SBE for the A400. Much happier with my new A400 compared to my old SBEs.
Funny how you give the SBE3 a slight edge in the looks department when you comment on it, but then score them both at 8.5. Then in the very next segment of ergonomics, you give the A400 a slight edge and score it 8 and 9.5 in favor of the Beretta. I know you were not likely to pick the SBE3, but you need to let go of your gas gun bias...at least a little bit. I still really enjoy your videos. Keep up the god work.
This was a well thought out and excellent presented video.
The Beretta might have come out on top for you, but I'd take the Benelli all day long.
Would love to see another browning Maxus 2 vs a400 video after having them a while!
I "grew up" on SBE3's, so I'm definitely biased. I was given an A400 once. I had nothing but problems with it. I think it was something to do with that particular gun, though, and not all A400's. I agree with Steve, that the A400 is an incredibly good shooting gun, especially with larger loads. But I just can't get past the unparalleled reliability of the SBE3.
I really enjoy your shotgun reviews. Your reviews and my research have ultimately led me to order the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus in the OD Green color. Pairing it with a Muller Passing choke and Boss Warchief shells. I’m really looking forward to duck season now! Thanks to you and Joel with SurvivingDuckSeason for helping me with my choice!
I have and I think prefer the A400, it points so well, kicks so soft, and it cycles lighter target loads. One big thing I think you should test is how well the 12 gauge autoloaders cycle 1 ounce at 1180 shells and maybe even some super light target loads. That cuts more recoil from target shooting than almost any other feature. I think they are both great and I could totally recommend either shotgun depending on what/how you hunt.
i've used both and own an A400 Xtreme Plus, it shoots to point of aim and with hunting loads i find it kicks way less.
Love the Beretta. Bought one and really like it. Almost as much as my Tikka Bolt Gun.
I’ve been hunting waterfowl like a madman for 30 years. The inertia bolt recharge is the most reliable action. The first of these shotguns is actually made by Heckler & Koch then Benelli purchased the patent. I shoot a first gen black eagle I purchased retail for $700. It’s been underwater multiple times and never misfired once. I wouldn’t trade my old one for five new ones.
Ive got the original SBE and have shot thousands of rounds through it for 20 years. They may have come a long way with gas in the last 20 years but being a guide in water fowl and laying in muddy fields ive seen far to many have issues. Havent had to replace anything on it either, nice video tho.
After watching your videos previous to this showdown I went with the A400! And this solidified the choice…also found a really good sale I couldn’t pass up. Keep up the great content
Last year I was between the SBE3, Magnus II, and the A400 (all 12 gauge). I didn't get to shoot any of them prior to purchase, so I chose the SBE3 due to in hand feel and the BEST coating. I've shot the SBE3 on 5-6 trips now and love it. It wasn't an easy choice and I think I would have been just as happy with the other two.
SBE3 BEST: love the durability (salty California areas), love how it shoots. Hate the black BEST color.
Magnus II: American brand (kind of), loved the vintage tan camo, gas + Target Focused Life seemed to have this as #1 last year for the grouping
A400: didn't like the camo patterns as much, bulkier in hand, However, I met a rep in Yuma for the dove opener last year, he almost had me purchasing on the spot.
I have 3 A400's so, you know how I feel about them. Thanks for a great showdown vid!
I have the Beretta. I had intended on purchasing a different shotgun primarily based on overall appeal and name recognition. Though it is a bit bulky I don’t mind and I’m not disappointed
I have a Remington 1100 I am happy had over 42 years still going strong dove season is next week can't wait
Id love to find an 1100 in 16 gauge with removable choke tubes. I've only ever seen one for sale and I bid it up well over 2500 and still didn't get it
Ditto that Ray… still have mine but shooting A400. Still Wouldn’t hesitate taking my 1100 out in any weather
Definitely a "ford vs. chevy" choice in my opinion. Both are good quality and reputable brands. Boils down to personal preference and feel in your hand.
I will say with absolute confidence Benelli shotguns are the least reliable guns I have ever walked a wild pheasant field with. Been hunting in South Dakota for 26 seasons now and that fact has remained constant. Not hating on Benelli. They make a fine gun. They unfortunately become single shot malfunction machines in the pheasant field. They come out of battery while walking and give people that famous "benelli click". This is usually immediately followed by a litany of cuss words........ This includes the newest ones made as well.
This will be my 4th hunting season using an A400, I’ve put ~15,000 rounds through it between hunting and clays. Agree with you on the ergonomics. When I first bought it -after using an interia gun for several years- I did not like the feel of the A400 and initially wanted to sell it. As I shot it more though I really fell in love with it and once I was used to it, I can shoot that a400 better than anything else I’ve used.
I've been waiting for this forever. I bought the beretta 5 days ago for $1496.00 tax included
Great price, where did you find that?
@@macd557 Cabelas. 10% off for members plus 200 rebate from Beretta
Surprise surprise, who would've thought that a target shooter would prefer the heavier, softer shooting, larger profile gas gun that more closely resembles a target gun lol. These are both fantastic guns within the class, the two best really but they aren't really comparable in a lot of ways. The Benelli pulls favor from the coastal and backwoods/flooded timber hunters who hunt in harsher conditions where an intertia gun shines. Ergos are subjective but rarely have I heard a buddy pick the A400 over the SBE3 in terms of ergos.
I usually get a new waterfowl gun every 2-3 years and I am now on my third SBE3. I've also had a Super Vinci, a SBE2 and the original HK/Benelli Super 90/M1 before that so I have been on the Benelli train for quite some time now. Amongst our group it's pretty split between these two guns but there's a slight edge to the number of Benelli's in the blind.
I accept the harsher recoil and the more muzzle rise of the inertia gun because I favor slimmer ergos, simpler design and function and better reliability in harsher conditions. We hunt the saltwater marshes and flooded rice fields of the Texas coastline and down here the Benelli king. I'd personally love to have both of these guns but I just can't justify that. The Maxus, A5 and XLR5 are all great waterfowl options as well that should get some consideration amongst perspective buyers. It's a shame that Winchester ruined the SX4 because their SX3 was a pretty solid performer at a great price point.
Run both and they’re great but I kinda prefer the Maxus II over either.
I’m with you. I had both and now shooting the Maxus 2 wicked wing. For me personally, it’s just a better shooting gun.
SBE for life! A400 (Xcel) for serious sporting clays use though. For hunting, the SBE is the way to go.
Let’s see the Fabarms XLR5 waterfowler against the Beretta!
I haven’t fired the A400, have shot a buddy’s SBE3 and liked it. Both good guns.
Sbe3 = slow… you can out shoot it
A300 Ultima vs M2? I know they are slightly different price ranges but I think the A300 can hold its own
I personally have a left handed/left eject M2 in 20 gauge, and really like the weight of it compared to the A300's I've rented at the range (which I don't believe comes with a left eject option).
@@christopherhogan656that’s all it does better is weight Nuthing else
Sometime I dream of an A400 with carbon fibre Cerakoted exterior with 100% machined titanium internals and stainless steel barrel. But then I wake up to a plastic A400 and still love it anyway.
I love my SBE 3. Great gun . The only thing I do not like about it is that the safety can be easily, unintentionally disengaged especially when wearing gloves.
I used to have both. They can cycle 2 3/4 dram 1 oz. target loads without problem but not the 24 grams international loads. I sold the A400 a few months ago. By the time I was still cleaning the gas components of the A400, I could clean the SBE3 twice.
I have em both and definitely like my A400 better
I have been debating these two guns for the last week. The only other gun I've been thinking about is the Affinity 3.5 to save a bit of money.
That’s what I have and it’s been great. Probably a bit more recoil then the benelli or beretta.
Do the Franchi
Franchi recoil gets old pretty quickly. The Beretta is a soft shooter. Easy answer if you shoot much at all.
@@leeturner3143 it's not that bad, same as Benelli SBE3. If you're going to buy an inertia gun, go Franchi. I'd opt for the 3 inch over the 3.5. With the tungsten type of shot shell, I don't know why anybody needs 3.5 anymore. As far as gas guns go, I guess Beretta is fine. My biggest issue with them is where they put the safety, it's something I can't use personally.
The Super Vinci X is also great for the money
Don’t own either one and happen to live in CA close enough to the delta so I could easily hunt if I want. While at a local gun shop I was able to handle both after watching some videos of yours and luckily “pointability” stuck in my head. I chose a spot on the wall and let each one tell me which was easier to point. Initially I wanted the SBE and now I’m heavily leaving towards the A400. It feels better, and the heavier front makes it a little more predictable I guess one could say.
I love the a400 family. Have several. Cole’s will do a trigger job on them for a cheap price and it’s worth every penny. It lightens the trigger break and takes out the slop. And you can call and order one and they will mail you the trigger assembly to just swap out.
I don't think Beretta cares too much whether someone buys their rifle or a Benelli, since they own Benelli 😉
The safety alone sold me on the Benelli I bought one. I don’t like a safety in front of the trigger guard just me. I also have the Franchi Affinity, not quit a Benelli but very very close
Why wouldn’t you want the safety where your finger naturally rides? Instead of having to come back behind the trigger and then into position, you can just deactivate the safety as you pull your finger into position.
@@thopkins2271
Because that’s where most of the older model shotguns that I’m familiar with had their safeties to the rear of the trigger
100% with you
@@HB-uk9qc That’s a reasonable answer. If I was forced into a rear safety I would be looking for options like the Vang Comp dome head safety so that my finger can actuate it naturally. I know they make Remington ones, take a look and see if they make one for you. Like $20 or something.
I like the super Vinci but as a general public waterfowler I get very few to no opportunities with the dead sky. Never jams as long as you use the oils they give you.
Love them both. Id probably go with the Benelli though. But instead i bought an A5 because i wanted a 16 gauge, love it so far!!
@TargetFocusedLifeReview have you ever done a review on the 1301? I understand it's not really in your wheelhouse, but I'd love to hear your thoughts on them
A400 upland video or compared to something similar would be awesome
Glad to see the show downs back. 😊
We're over due for a Side x Side review Steve. Orion SBS ?
Maybe CZ All Terrain over understanding. All terrain series are great for water fowlers !
Not only does the A400 point perfectly, it also shoots where you point it.
You should try out the CZ Woodcock. Supposed to be super solid for the price.
I have 2 of each.....fancy for skeet days and waterfowl versions for hunting. Thousands of rounds thru each of them.
A400 all day.
They point better
I hit better
Recoil is better
Controls are 100% better.
Newbies hit better
Welded bolt or not, the A400 is Just BETTER.
Have to go with the A400. I like a gas gun, due to recoil absorption. And a bit forward heavy, makes for a nice swinging gun. Great video. Thanks for sharing.
That is the exact same camo I have on my sb3
I would pick the SBE 3 only because of the years upon years of abuse I’ve put my SBE 2 through and it never stops working as it should.
I have the Xtreme plus. The BSBE is simply overrated. I tried the SBE, but landed on Berettas simply because of recoil. When your glasses flew off it was a great way to show people just how much more recoil the SBE has. Thanks for your input Steve. I think you were actually a little generous when it came down to the SBE.
Tried them both and bought the A400. Benelli was too slender in my hand. Liked the feel and reduced recoil of the A400
I own both guns A400 for ducks and geese and the Benelli Ethos for targets/clays
If Benellis shot a true 60/40 pattern I’d buy 2 of em & never need another shotgun. They’re by far the most reliable & easiest to clean. They just don’t shoot straight.
Own a sbe3 great gun. Want to buy an a400 just cant get over the chunky feel this video may have convinced me to try
Sba3 all day, reason : shot one for years on ducks and turkeys for probably close to 12 years prior it was the M2 my ultimate favorite and my sons favorite for 5 years I wanted to like theA400 because it looks so cool and i had a awesome deal on one but couldn’t”t get used to the chunky feel especially with how much we walk and wade here in Florida. Just my opinion
I have the A400 but I shoot a Maxus 1 and a Superposed for ducks.
Sba3 all day reason : shot one for years on ducks and turkeys for probably close to 12 years prior it was the M2 my ultimate favorite and my sons favorite for 5 years I wanted to like theA400 because it looks so cool and i had a awesome deal on one but couldn’t”t get used to the chunky feel
A400 extreme plus, I own one hunt with it hard. Reliable all do no matter the temp. Never had a misfire of any kind. Love how it handles recoil. Shooting 3.5 in shells can hurt when you go snow goose hunting and get into heavy birds. The price is high but you will not need to buy another gun for at least ten years so do the math I say worth it.
I have been shooting an SBE2 12 gauge for 19 years and a SBE1 before that. I prefer the lighter front end. I feel like I can get on target faster. Recoil has never bothered me. I don’t know about the SBE3 12g but based on my past experience, I would probably choose it over the Beretta. I also have an SBE3 20 gage which I think is a great super quick handling 20. All references to duck hunting.
I had a sbe 3 12g and m2 20g, sbe shot way high finish had worn bad and poa was horribly inconsistent and it jammed, not a lot but more then it should. I called benelli and cs told me to put a huge bead on it and said more or less your problem not ours. M2 was nice but took a hammer to load, very stiff. I sold both bought 12 and 20 a 400 and they are awesome. Benelli in my opinion is not a horrible gun just way to many issues for me, btw good video thank you
Have shot them both quite a bit. Can’t go wrong with either. A400 shoots very soft with the kickoff system. But I prefer the SBE3 for the ergonomics, the simple breakdown, and how clean it stays.
Sold my SBE2 for a browning maxus 2, never looked back.
I chose the a400 for myself and a sbe3 20ga for my 11yo
I can say they each have their strengths and weaknesses the a400is definitely the more reliable option in North Dakota temps and I haven’t missed anything yet on a hunt.
But the 20ga sbe3 is a laser beam in my sons hands
These videos are great! Not many videos on non-tactical shotguns out there.
Keep em both, I have Benelli Vinci and nothing comes close. I've shot SBE 3 and Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus, (that is the gun my son shoots) the Vinci just handles different, I can feel it when I shoot them all in rotation. There is a physical difference I can feel in shooting it compared to the other 2. For reference I"m 6' and 220 lbs.
I have both, and they are both great guns for two totally different reasons A400 for Turkeys 3 1/2" shells thru this gun are a dream compared to the SBE3, now duck and goose late season covered with ice and snow Benelli failed to bring up my second shot, during cold weather the second shots were slow to reload, SBE3 just keeps jamming the shells in there and never gave up. It's fun to carry the Browning Synergy in the field, and someone asks how I like it and only having two shots, I reply if I need more shots I can get my backup guns and when they find out what my backup guns are they shake their heads. Now if you want to carry a heavier gun all day grab the A400, all day carry goes to the SBE3, the first thing the SBE3 did was go swimming in the mud next to our blind, just picked it out and wiped it off and whaled away from then on, needless to say I was impressed. Maybe my tests are a little more rigorous than yours but that's real life. You're right about one thing both are great guns and if you have to choose buy both.
On the TFL shotgun finder under waterfowl guns and if you filter by overall score high to low. The A400 is listed 1st and the SBE3 is listed down in the 18th spot I have always been a fan of Benelli but after shooting an A400. That will be my next waterfowl gun. I do think you are paying $500-700 more than you should for each gun just because of their names.
Honestly to me there both good guns and it came down to what kinda of hunting you do.
If your private land going to a blind in a side by side go with a400.
If your hunting public and walking alot go with the benelli.
As a public land hunter I can't see myself carrying bag,decoys,and a heavy ass a400.
Also my grand dad has been shooting a m1 super 90 for over 10 years and passed it down to me.
Make a review the A400 upland 12cal
Not even close. A400 is way better. I have 2 of them. I only know one dude who has a SBE3 and he can’t get it to shoot anything but a foot high and left. Benelli says it isn’t their problem and it was designed that way. BS. I like my shotguns to hit what I point them at.
I’d really be p!Ssed if my shotguns shot high and to the left😮. That is a lot of dough for a bad barrel!
4:21 nailed it😎
@TargetFocusedLifeinc Do you mean IW? It's me Steve
100% SBE. Pretty much every reason that you liked the A400, is why I don't. LOL..the 2x4 feel, LOP, large handle and button. Perhaps it is because I have shot a 12g SBE since 2001, a 12g M2 for the last 3 years, and just purchased a SBE3 28. They feel right. I looked at the Beretta when getting the 28, and it was fine.. but the Benelli felt comfortable....like home.
As a man who is 6’5 and 245 lbs. The Beretta feels great in hand, has great point and shoot feel and does not fail to shoot. I was in Wyoming w 6 other guys in 10 below zero weather. All other hunters has Benellis. ALL click w no shot. I shot first 4 ducks w my A400 while they watched in misery. This guy is built like a 14 yr old boy. If you are man sized, you will have no problem handling an A400. 😂. Jk. The length of forearm on the Beretta is great for a man with long arms. I may also add Beretta OWNS Benelli.
Pretty much all high volume wing shooting outfits in South America run Berettas for a reason……
Great video. Thanks.
I’ve bought 3 SBE3s 28gauge 12gauge and a B.E.ST 12gauge. The only one that has cost me over 2k was my 12gauge SBE3 B.E.ST. Your regular SBE3 should run you $1.7k maybe $1.9k after taxes.
Do you find that your SBE3 best shoots high?
The real comparison between two types of weapons is shooting at paper targets and knowing the style of each type in terms of hitting the target accurately and beautifully, not shooting in the air.
Yeah I have both of them and that Bretta A400 is clearly better