shell waster

Eric W, I have tried several times to find out if I can purchase the new Comfort Tech Stock for my SBE (e-mails, call dealers etc.), so far I can't get a straight answer.

Does anyone have the recoil reducer in a SBE? How much does it help reduce recoil on 3 1/2" heavy loads? Does it throw off the balance of the gun or make it noticable heavier? Difficult to install etc?

The SBE is a heavier hitter with 3 1/2" loads. If recoil does not bother you, then do not worry about it. The recoil is significantly less with the SBE II. I am wondering if you can buy a SBE II stock and put it on the SBE, I have e-mail Benelli, but they have not responded. I have an older SBE, and after a few hours of shell wasting on ducks (3 1/2"), my shoulder gets sore. [ 04-07-2004, 09:58 PM: Message edited by: shell waster ]

Do you duck hunt? A longer barrel helps for a steadier swing in theory. I have read that there is no difference between 26" and 28" in pattern or foot pound energy (don't always believe what you read). I switched from a 30" Browning Gold to 26" SBE, it was different and took time to get back on target. The question is do you want that M2?

Which one feels better in your hands, on your shoulder, etc? Deep down in your gut which one do you truly want (ignoring price). They both will last forever so you want the most comfortable and the price difference will be a total wash 20 years down the road. I personally would get the M2.

Thanks Chessie Dog and strubedog, I have taken the pattern master off the wish list.

Sounds like you need a gun that can handle the lighter loads. You might have to settle with a Montefeltro a good 3" gun. I don't see waterfowl on your list, you may only need a 3" gun or if you don't need quick cycling, how about a Nova. Semi's really only shine in waterfowling. My SBE doesn't handle the cheap 7/8 oz loads well.

My question is how much do you want to spend and will you be handloading shells? Benelli's are very reliable. Beretta makes some fine sporting and trap models. If you handload shells never rule out an over/under.

Clean easier than a Benelli? I think the DU guy must had one too many beers when he was giving that advice. The X-2 is a great gun, but in my opinion the benelli cleans much easier. When the DU guy said the X-2 shoots better, did he mean recoil? The only advantages the X-2 has over the SBE is price and recoil. The SBE II the recoil is the same or if not less. In every other way, the SBE is superior.

I have never used a Pattern Master choke tube, and I am condering one for my SBE. Some guys swear by them, some guys say they are junk. I will be shooting 3 1/2" steel BB's and #2 for geese and duck. Are they worth it in terms of pattern and do they have any effect on recoil? Any other choke suggestions.

I own a SBE, it rocks. I would save up for the New SBE II. If you can't afford it, and have to buy cheap, check out the Stoeger Model 2000. My advice is this, open a seperate savings account, have the bank transfer small amounts directly every week from say your checking account or pay check. You won't miss the cash and before you know it you'll have that SBE II.