The Benelli Nova 3 is an evolution of the classic Nova line of pump-action shotguns. The first noticeable feature of this shotgun while unboxing is its weight—or lack thereof. Compared to the original model, Benelli managed to shave more than a pound off this newest addition to the Nova lineup. The stock and receiver are integrated into a single-piece, rock-solid build. This method of construction makes long days in the field much less tiring, especially for those who may have skipped out on regular upper-body workouts. Adding to the gun's robust build is its polymer stock, which can withstand any mud, grit and rain it is destined to encounter.
For those with hunting on the agenda, the Nova 3’s barrel comes in both 26” and 28” lengths. A tactical 18.5”-barrel option is ideal if home-defense or hunting from inside a turkey blind is more your speed.
Each model incorporates the Benelli Mobil Choke system and, in keeping with what has become industry standard, the Nova 3 ships with improved cylinder, modified and full chokes, plus a wrench. Thus you are covered whether you are targeting upland game, waterfowl or simply patterning your shotgun with a variety of shells. On top of the business end of the barrel sits a red-bar front sight, serving as a nice, bold indicator of where you're pointing. The receiver is optics-ready, allowing you to mount a red dot if desired. The addition of an optic is easily done at home without the need to send your shotgun to a gunsmith.
One of the more exciting features that Benelli included with its newest launch is the renowned Benelli M4 bolt head, boasting a significantly larger surface area for reliable bolt lock-up. Often a feature of pricier scatterguns, Benelli opted to bring an additional layer of reliability and value to what some may lovingly refer to as their budget line of pump actions. Speaking of pump actions, the Nova 3 features a shorter stroke than its predecessors.
Last but not least, shooters will be happy to see that the Nova 3 was designed with a beveled and oversized loading port, which is a blessing in disguise when hunting in cooler weather, as there will be far less fumbling when wearing gloves. This shotgun also sports a handy magazine cutoff button, convenient for when you decide to switch loads on the fly, while a diamond-patterned grip and forend allow for a positive grip on the firearm in all conditions. The texture is aggressive enough to stay locked in with wet or gloved hands, but it won't sand your palm raw. The grip is distinctly more vertical than other models, and when paired with the fore-end and generous pump length, it accommodates an even wider array of shooters, both in terms of fit and in maintaining a comfortable shooting stance.
The weight of a gun plays a part in the amount of felt recoil experienced by a shooter. So, knowing that the Nova 3 saw a reduction in weight and what that may mean for the end user, Benelli opted to include a built-in recoil pad on the rear-most portion of the gun. This extra layer of cushion is a much-welcome addition for anyone shooting 3” magnum loads, which tend to have a bit more "oomph" to them than standard 2.75" to 3" birdshot. For those who are truly recoil-sensitive, there are plenty of aftermarket options available, but in my opinion, proper training and basic marksmanship skills will go further than a cushion will any day.
For our live-fire testing, we ran two popular hunting loads through the Nova 3, which included Remington's Nitro Steel Duplex 12-gauge and Federal Premium's Ultra Steel Double Stack. These two options are quite popular during duck season and can be likened to a multi-tool within the shotshell world. Remington’s Nitro-Steel Duplex 12-gauge fires a 1¼-oz. magnum load of two steel pellet sizes in one shell, so you get tight patterns whether you're inside 30 yards or pushing past 40. Federal Premium’s Ultra Steel Double Stack 12-gauge pairs a 1¼-oz. payload of stacked zinc-plated #2 and #4 steel shot with a rear-opening Flitecontrol flex wad to deliver tight, even patterns on both close shots and those past 40 yards. Both options cycled flawlessly through the Nova 3, with the manufacturer's promises of tight patterns holding true.
Maintenance on the Nova 3 is straightforward, especially if you’re familiar with a pump shotgun. The all-polymer construction is easy to maintain, with no risk of rust or swelling if left in a damp blind overnight, like you may experience with a shotgun sporting a walnut stock. Disassembly is simple and doesn’t require any tools.
Benelli didn’t need to reinvent the pump-action shotgun, but with the Nova 3, they just might have set a new benchmark for what we expect out of a workhorse scattergun. It’s light, quick and just plain easy to run without sacrificing the quality or reliability Benelli fans have come to expect. For new shooters, the Nova 3 is not an intimidating platform, is quick to learn, and is a real step up in the "practical lightweight" class. Whether you have been shooting for years, looking to upgrade your current shotgun, or are brand new to the shooting world as a whole, the Nova 3 from Benelli is a must-consider option if you’re looking to expand your collection. For more information, visit benelliusa.com.
Specifications
Model: Nova 3
Stock Finish: Realtree Max-7
Receiver Finish: Realtree Max-7
Barrel Finish: Realtree Max-7
Gauge: 12 gauge
Barrel Length: 28”
Grip: Standard
Included Chokes: IC, M, F
Chambering: 2.75”, 3”
Capacity: 4 +1
Sight: Red-Bar Front
Action: Pump
Length of Pull: 14 1/8”
Drop at Heel: 2 3/8”
Drop at Comb: 1 3/8”
Overall Length: 49.5”
Weight: 6.7 lbs.
