shotgunNoob

Does anyone here know the size of the nut used to hold in the front ghost ring sight for the SuperNova Tactical? Im needing to purchase a wrench for this thing and cant make out the size. Thanks....

Unfortunately, thats the nature of the Benelli beast. Dont feel too bad; a replacement barrel for my SNT (w/GR sights) runs $420. I believe that these barrels are so high for various reasons; a) seeing as how they are imported, any local reseller is going to have to make up various costs in acquiring these barrels in the first place, b) supply vs demand...in this case, the demand does not necessitate a large supply and thus, resellers probably see no benefit in lowering the price and c) with the chrome lined bore and IMHO, a much higher quality barrel when compared to most, the already high cost (overhead) will become that much greater. Its ridiculous, I know...Thats why I went out and bought a Mossberg 590 (leaving the Benelli for occasional use only), just so I could easily afford to replace parts as needed. Now, the Mossy is no SNT, but I didnt expect it to be. I wanted a daily use/HD shotty that I could "beat up" and not be so concerned about. So, I felt inclined to go lower quality just so I could possibly save some $$$ down the road. If I had the funds to own several of these Benelli beasts, I wouldnt think twice about replacement costs. But, since I havent found money growing on any nearby trees, well..... So, I guess my advice would be to either use your current setup for general use and buy another Benelli for occasional use (Id strongly recommend you go with a SuperNova this time around) or buy a somewhat cheaper, albeit less quality, shotgun for general wear/tear duty and possibly store the Benelli.

Well..Im certainly considering the M2, although Ive heard that it doesnt like things hanging off the mag tube (ie., lights) as this could jam the works. I wouldnt know anything about this, however, since I just do the pump shotty thing right now. I would like to propose something here, regarding semi-auto shotguns. Why not just get a 930 STX 8-shot for about, oh, $500-600 less than an M2?

This is useful information....thanks. Ahh...Benelli CS, gotta love'em. This is interesting because, as far as I know, the collapsable stock doesnt seem available in the US. I wonder why Benelli would even be concerned about this. So, you are basically saying that, for instance, if I damaged the rod on my SNT, I would have no other choice but to send it directly to Benelli and have them replace it vs just buying one myself? This seems ridiculous to me (nothing having to do with you). It makes me wonder if, should the notched rod become damaged, one could just order/replace it with the "standard" rod used by the SuperNova turkey guns (not tactical), assuming that this particular rod is available through standard methods. Since both the Comfortech and SteadyGrip stocks are available for both of these models, it seems like it would work. This is unless, of course, the receiver for the SNT is of a different design vs the SuperNova (I cant see why it would be). Even though one would lose the ability to use the adjustable/collapsable stock, it would seem moot at this point as this particular stock doesnt seem to be available anyway. Thoughts?

Screw it......maybe Ill just go out and purchase another Benelli SNT (this time with open rifle sights vs the GR sights I currently have). Ill save approximately $700 and still have yet another sweet shotgun added to my collection. After all, $700 will buy quite a bit of ammo.

Yes...you are indeed.

I have looked at other guns within the "M" series, but given costs and accessory availability, it seems the M2 (tactical) wins out. Ive heard its one sweet piece of machinery. Is this so? Is it worth the fairly steep price? Again, this would be my first semi-auto shotty, so Im looking for a quality, painless introduction into the semi-auto world. Thoughts? Side note: Dont bother recommending the M4 as there is no way in h*ll I can afford that one.

Im saying that I believe the stock rod used for the SNT is one and the same, regardless of whether or not you have the SteadyGrip or ComforTech stock. Now, I can see this rod being somewhat different when comparing the standard SuperNova to a SuperNova Tactical. Also, I cant see how in the world this particular rod would not be available via replacement, if necessary. It seems ridiculous to me that Benelli would only manufacture just enough of these rods to match the number of guns they produce. It may be hard to find for sure, but I would bet it could be done with enough tenacity and/or research. In addition, if this "bolt" you mentioned cannot be purchased directly from Benelli, Im sure that it could be purchased via any online reseller of such bolts or possibly a local gunshop. After all, I doubt it is a "Benelli" exclusive bolt. Heck, if worse comes to worse, Im sure that there are several ways this bolt could actually be custom manufactured. Im always of the opinion that, given the necessary funds and/or tenacity, almost anything is possible.

Supernova, regarding your issue, any updates yet? I havent seen any new threads and/or posts regarding any possible resolution to your issue(s). Keeping your issue in mind, when I last shot my SNT, I intentionally made no real effort to keep the fore-end pushed all the way forward into battery. I also tried pulling back on the fore-end (just prior to firing a chambered round) thus, taking it slightly out of "full battery." The result, besides a bit of play, I did not experience one misfire. Now, upon further inspection, I did notice that while the locking head stays put, the bolt itself seems to move back and forth just a tiny bit. While this certainly bugs me, it doesnt seem to have had any negative affects up to this point (with roughly 100+ rounds) in terms of causing misfires.

Hmm...Are we speaking of the SuperNova or SuperNova Tactical? My SNT came equipped with the Comfortech stock yet, has a stock rod similar to what you describe as coming with a SteadyGrip equipped Benelli (ie., using a bolt). When speaking of the SN tactical, it doesnt seem to make much sense that two different types of stock rods would be used as the SNT was originally designed to accept 3 stock configurations. Now, in regards to the basic SuperNova you may or may not be correct, but if you are speaking of the SNT, I would choose to be somewhat dubious about this statement.

Im thinking the "true" 590A1 is more expensive than the model Im looking at...not sure. However, the specific model I mentioned (51663) is supposed to have a heavy-walled barrel and all metal trigger assembly, such as those found on the 590A1. The only thing Im not sure about is the safety button (ie. plastic or metal). Either way, thats why I chose this particular model as, unlike many of the other "civvy" Mossbergs, this one contains several parts usually implemented in the 590A1 class Mossys. I think the main reason I have been considering this gun over, lets say, another Benelli SNT is because Im needing a fairly inexpensive (but quality) shotgun for heavy range use/HD which, upon needing any replacement parts and/or accessories, will be much easier and cheaper to acquire vs my current Benelli. My SNT is nice and I like it. Plus, it does make for a great all-around, high quality shotty. But, parts are just too expensive for this thing! Therefore, Im thinking about making this my "occasional" shooter, even though it may very well end up being the best shotgun I have (out of 2 or more). If I end up buying this shotgun, I will certainly heed this advice. Thanks.

Im in the market for a second pump shotgun (I currently own a Benelli SNT) and am having a tough time deciding between the following: Benelli SNT (yes, another one) -or- Mossberg 590 Special Purpose - 9 shot (model 51663 which, as I understand, is essentially a 590A1 being sold/marked as "civilian.") As much as I love the Benelli SNT, Im somewhat leaning towards the Mossy (51663) due to the generous mag capacity and heavier duty barrel/trigger assembly vs other "civilian" Mossbergs. Not to mention, I also am considering the fact that this shotgun will be far easier (and less expensive) to accessorize vs the Benelli. Now, keep in mind, Im not suggesting this Mossberg trumps a Benelli SNT in terms of overall quality. Im just wondering if it may trump the Benelli in terms of overall practicality. After all, I already own a Benelli...should I really buy yet another one? Any thoughts are welcome; if you have had any experience with this particular 590, your thoughts are more than welcome. I have tried posing this question at other forums, but mainly received responses such as "forget these two shotguns and buy an 870 instead".

---- BUMP ---- (Second and last attempt)

Nice collection there... I only have this one, lowly Benelli (and one sh*tty pic )

I say that, with a light coat of quality oil (I use Weapon Shield) and "stored" within a climate controlled environment, you shouldnt have too many issues. Now, if stored within any enclosed area (safe), Id recommend using a de-humidifier of some type or a dessicant(s). For all of my safe stored weapons I use dessicants. For my shotty, which is stored sans safe, I simply keep a light coat of WS applied to any "critical" areas. Either way, its best to check the weapon every month or so (at least), just to keep tabs on any possible problem areas. If stored for long periods of time (ie. many, many months or even years), might I suggest using a VCI bag. Here is the link for what I have been using: http://www.zcorrproducts.com/index.htm I have kept a revolver (without any oil applied) inside one of these VCI bags for about a year now and have seen absolutely no evidence of oxidation.

Hmm..Sounds like a similar situation I ran into when I bought my last pistol (for over $800). Personally, I couldnt live with the imperfect finish so I sent it back. Now, in regards to your situation, it all comes down to personal preference. If functionality means more than looks, I'd say live with it. But, given what you probably payed for it, if you demand "perfect and new" condition for money well spent (as I often do) and you can live with the possibly steep turnaround time, I say contact Benelli, give them the details and have them take care of it. This is an interesting thread as my next purchase would probably be a desert camo SNT (I currently have the "tactical" black version).

True. BTW- I had a loaded 9mm shoved in my face years back (car jacking)...so I know how it feels. Needless to say, since that night, Ive certainly learned the value of previous advice given to me; "dont try brandishing a weapon when one is already aimed right at you (at close range) as you will more than likely lose the gunfight...and possibly your life". This is all a bit off topic, but its worth saying.

I agree....After all, close quarter HD encounters are in a completely different league vs (potentially) drawn out LE encounters.

I voted for the second option. Frankly, I have never seen the need for a red dot on a shotty (for a rifle, maybe). This goes double if you are considering this for HD use. I personally prefer ghost ring sights (like mounted on my SN tactical) as I feel they offer great versatility. But, in your case, going with GR sights would be quite expensive. Therefore, I say just lose the rail and RD sight and go with the original setup. BTW- The SN is a good shotgun. I would not recommend getting rid of it even though you have obviously encountered a few issues. Keep in mind...man is fallible; therefore, anything made by man falls within this category. Get the replacement sight, lose the unnecessary add-ons and enjoy your shotgun.

Its funny that you mentioned TacStar as I just installed a +2 extension of theirs on my SNT. It wasnt my preference to do so, but the Nordic Components tube I had installed bit the dust (due to my mistake). Now Im finding it hard to acquire another +2 NC tube as they all seem to be out of stock right now. So the TacStar, as lacking as it is when compared to NC, is going to have to do for now. So far, it seems to do what its designed to do. Once I get another NC tube, the TS piece will be relegated to "back-up" status. BTW- I appreciate your comments and "hypotheticals." It made for interesting reading.

This Mesa Tactical SureShell carrier is for the Benelli SuperNova Tactical and is the 4-shot version. It includes all necessary hardware and 4 additional/replacement screws. I have never stored ammo (long term) in this carrier, so it is essentially like new. The price is $60 shipped. PM me if interested....

Thanks for the responses. Euromutt, the ideas you suggest are valid and have given me much to consider. Assuming I lose the side saddle and retain the mag extension/light, what would be your ideas regarding these accessories mounted to a shotty utilizing a PG stock? Personally, my arguments for the PG stock (if ever needed in court) might be as follows: 1) It allows for greater control of the shotgun. After all, given the powerful nature of the 12 g. shotty, control should be of paramount importance and could be considered a "safety" benefit. 2) It allows for, IMHO, greater defense against a possible disarm attempt. This is due to the solid grip it affords (ie. it puts the hand/wrist closer to center mass). 3) It allows for greater one-handed manipulation of the shotgun, should the strong side become injured/useless during an HD encounter. 4) Simply put, for me, its more ergonomic vs a "standard" style stock and thus, allows me to better maintain consistent, accurate hits. Anyway, Im taking all opinions very seriously as you have all made very good points. Thanks again.

Umm..well said. But, I have to disagree with the statement regarding side saddles. I have a 4 shell Mesa Tactical carrier which, after 200 rounds of heavy hitting loads, has yet to budge. In addition, it really hasnt thrown off "balance" to any noticeable degree. As for the other comments... Ill just leave things where they are.

Good point. Try the links below. Im sure you will find a much higher member volume within these particular forums as this one is more "specific." Thus, this might expedite your search for answers. If I were you, Id think about joining both forums (if you havent already) and posting your question(s) regarding this issue vs merely doing a search. You should soon have the answers you seek. http://www.thefiringline.com/forums/ http://www.thehighroad.org/index.php

Im not an expert in this area, but since nobody has bothered tackling your issue, Ill give it a go. First off, I wouldnt bother trying to mount a sidesaddle to the side of the receiver as Ive heard that, if you dont get it right, you could run into all sorts of reliability issues. Plus, I just dont trust this kind of setup. Personally, Id spend the extra cash and have a competent gunsmith drill/tap the top of the receiver. Sure, you could still run into some problems. But, I feel that top-mounted carriers afford greater overall reliability/security vs those mounted to the side of the weapon, IMHO.