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#5 on this list
Affinity 3.5 Elite
Franchi
Inertia-driven with a genuinely good factory recoil pad. The value pick in 3.5-inch guns.
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#6 on this list
940 Pro Waterfowl
Mossberg
Rated for 1,500 rounds between cleanings. Best budget gas gun for high-volume seasons.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Affinity 3.5 Elite | 940 Pro Waterfowl |
|---|---|---|
| Action | Inertia-driven semi-automatic | Gas-operated semi-automatic |
| Chamber | 3.5 inches | 3 inch |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge | — |
| Stock | Synthetic | Adjustable LOP & drop |
| Weight | Around 7 lbs (depending on barrel) | — |
| Recoil Pad | TSA Recoil Pad | — |
| Finish | — | Cerakote (barrel/receiver), synthetic (stock/forend) |
| Capacity | — | 4+1 |
| Sights | — | Fiber optic front bead |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Affinity 3.5 Elite
- Exceptional reliability in all weather conditions
- Handles a full range of 2.75 to 3.5-inch loads consistently
- Effective recoil pad significantly reduces felt recoil
- Easy to field strip and clean due to simple inertia system
- Excellent value for a high-performance waterfowl shotgun
- Recoil, while managed, is still sharper than some gas-operated alternatives
- Fit and finish are practical, not luxurious
- Limited aftermarket accessories compared to more popular models
940 Pro Waterfowl
- Extended cleaning intervals (rated 1,500 rounds)
- Excellent recoil mitigation for heavy loads
- Durable, weather-resistant Cerakote finish
- Reliable gas system handles diverse ammunition
- Adjustable stock for personalized fit
- Aesthetics are purely utilitarian, not refined
- Slightly heavier than some inertia-driven options
- Break-in period for optimal reliability with light loads
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