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Compare Best Waterfowl Shotguns head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
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#1 on this list
Super Black Eagle 3
Benelli
The inertia gun that defined the category. Runs dirty, cycles everything, and strips in seconds in a blind.
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- Specification researched
#2 on this list
A400 Xtreme Plus
Beretta
Kick-Off recoil system and the softest 3.5-inch shooting anywhere. Beretta's Blink action is the fastest made.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Super Black Eagle 3 | A400 Xtreme Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Action | Semi-automatic (Inertia-driven) | Semi-Automatic |
| Chamber | 2-3/4", 3", 3-1/2" | 3.5 inch |
| Stock | Synthetic (ComforTech 3) | — |
| Weight | 6.7 - 7.0 lbs (depending on configuration) | — |
| Chokes Included | C, IC, M, IM, F | — |
| Capacity | 3+1 | — |
| Recoil System | — | Kick-Off |
| Manufacturer | — | Beretta |
| Gauge Options | — | 12 Gauge |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Super Black Eagle 3
- Unparalleled reliability in extreme conditions
- Cycles a wide range of shell lengths flawlessly
- Excellent recoil mitigation for comfortable shooting
- Minimal maintenance required, easy to field strip
- Durable construction built to withstand harsh environments
- High initial cost compared to many competitors
- Some hunters prefer a softer recoil impulse from gas guns
- Chambering 3.5-inch shells can sometimes cause issues for smaller-framed shooters
A400 Xtreme Plus
- Unmatched recoil reduction, even with heavy 3.5-inch loads
- Extremely fast and reliable Blink gas operating system
- Superior corrosion resistance and robust build quality
- Excellent balance and handling for a magnum shotgun
- Oversized controls for easy operation with gloves
- Premium price point, a significant investment
- Can be slightly heavier than some non-magnum alternatives
- Recoil system adds some complexity to the stock
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