MSRP: $1,029.00 Franchi Affinity 3 Compact Model: Affinity 3 Compact Caliber: 12 Ga. Capacity: 4+1 Barrel Length: 26" Overall Length: 45.375" Caused him to miss some nice birds. Click to expand. The classic Auto-Five would be very costly to produce today and we do not like making adjustments to autoloaders based on load intensity. It is basically a Benelli M2 except cheaper. Jul 6, 2009 143 57 37 South Dakota. I have the Franchi with(I believe) the bottom land camo. A big part of my decision was how it looked and pointed for me. The Montefeltro if you want a semi auto. Beretta calls theirs Xtra grain I think. Franchi Mobl Franchi I-12 New Spor]ng Model Crio Gazelle Mobl. The Herstal Group puts Browning Silver and Gold variants in Winchester boxes and the Winchester SX3 and Browning Maxus are among the softest shooting autoloading actions. The only Benelli I care for is the Montefeltro. The gun is light and swings well, I would recommend it. In fact, they are one of the most well-known shotgun manufacturers in the world. Is the Benelli worth the extra money? Minuteman. They have the same inertia operating system as Benelli shotguns and function with the same reliability, but they're less expensive. It's easy! Only water foul hunt a couple times a year but mess around shooting clays all winter and summer and shoot a ton of crows during the winter. That said, Franchi shotguns generally have a good reputation. Some of their most popular models include the AFP Over/Under, the AL 48 semi-automatic, and the Vinci pump-action. Few bothered with recoil pad selection, for most of the 2-3/4 inch A-5's had no recoil pad. I am partial to my A400, I'm not sure if you can hit the $1500 price point. But the franchi to me feels like a better fit for me. It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. It features over-sized controls that make it easy to manipulate even if you've got gloves on or damp hands from setting decoys out. I emailed the Franchi customer support about this - turns out, they do NOT use thisnew systemto prevent the "benelli click" on the Franchi Affinity - here's what I was told: Thanks very much for your interest but the only guns with the easy loading system are the SBE3 and the Ethos. There are no short-recoil shotguns of any consequence in production. I have both, not enough difference to justify the cost of the Benelli IMO. Those who have one or both how do you like them? As far as weight goes we hunt 10 to sundown when in South Dakota and never thought it was too heavy at the end of the day. The 20-gauge Affinity 3 is available in the same finishes, with only a 26-inch barrel and is quite a bit lighter at 6 pounds. Our Sitemap. 44-40 vs 45-70: Which Caliber is Right for You? Specifically near the breech where the rib is attached to the barrel. Benelli has a long history of making high-quality shotguns. Is there a difference significant enough to validate almost double the cost? I have a Benelli and a Franchi and can't see any differences in quality or workmanship. Benelli has a long history of making high-quality shotguns. Methinks he is trying to wear it out. Don't want to spend a ton but am skeptical of the turkish guns. The answer is yes, and no. After a blazing introduction, Vinci sales have apparently fallen a bit flat. LimbSaver Classic Precision Recoil Pad, Benelli 12ga. Pull the trigger, pump, repeat. FRANCHI AFFINITY 3 VS BENELLI M2 SERIES. It was the stock version that came in a cardboard box instead of a case. Mine has been flawless. I can't say anything bad about my versamax. I would be more concerned with the "benelli click" issue (bolt rotating out of battery when bumped). I have a SBE 3 and M2. Franchi is a sister company of Benelli, and Benelli is, after all, the brand that introduced American hunters to the benefits of Inertia-Driven shotguns. It is the best working man's autoloader Remington has ever created and it is a very good gun. I am impressed with their Comfortech stock system, but less so with their Progressive Comfort attempt found on the Ethos. The Benellis seem to have a bit better finish and machining, but nothing that should affect the function of the gun. pick you up some Winchester aa,Remington heavy dove, or Rio shells, ALL in 1oz, and your cycling issues will be but a memory. I have an affinity and a montefeltro. Though the Benelli brand and associated Beretta family brands have tried, they have not caught on as clays guns, due to heavier recoil than gas guns. Got him a Super Black Eagle and he loves it. There are better choices, but not for the same money. Follow Us On Social They function dirty or wet and the only thing that tends to stop them is running them dry. The Benelli Vinci is, at least according to Benelli, the first shotgun made entirely by automation with no human intervention. Seems like your pretty into the wood stock and semi's but I have a Browning BPS with a synthetic stock that is my workhorse gun and love it. Found this Montefeltro 20ga at my local shop, think I have found the gun I have been looking for. Take a look at the LH Benelli M2, they come in 20ga. I will try to run down the basic autoloading action types, the better offerings in those action types and why you might wish to consider one over the other. Scopes, guns, boots and other tactical stuff in-between. I actually dont mind it. On by stoeger i purchased a heavier spring for inside the bolt and have not had the issue since, I need to find out if the Franchi also has this "Easy Locking System" that the SBE3 has -https://www.benelli.it/en/arma/super-black-eagle-3-wood. i'm just looking for a reliable tough gun that will last. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. Only the more "sophisticated" hunters bothered with 1-1/2 ounce 2-3/4 inch magnums for geese or turkey. The Franchi Affinity is made with a wood or synthetic stock, chrome-lined vent rib barrel, and a drilled and tapped receiver ready for a Weaver style base. Light, high build-quality, innovative design (easy breakdown and cleaning) and, yes, beautiful wood. Ultimately, benelli (the company) isn't going to mind if you purchase the benelli or franchi as they are all owned by the same company, beretta. Bought a Benelli Montifeltro about 6 months ago and think its a great gun, I have cycled a couple cases of target loads through it and have no problems. Franchi was founded in 1868 by Pietro Franchi. He was looking at benelli's but discovered their wood stocks to just have a sheet laid over lesser wood (any truth to this?) JavaScript is disabled. The SKB brand launched a Turkish made, dedicated clays inertia gun, the IS300 / RS300 target, in late 2013 that also hasn't gained much traction in the marketplace. Which is why I ask if anyone has used both and can compare. Last fall I sold my tricked out Berettas and bought the new V3 Remington. I'm sure you will be happy with either. Franchi shotguns are made in several different models, each designed for a different purpose. You are using an out of date browser. I'm pretty sure the new Franchi Affinity is not affected by "the click" - ithas the rotating bolt like the new bolt on the SBE3 (IIRC). Like its Benelli cousins, the Affinity Elite utilizes a very simple cycling system comprised almost entirely of a rotating bolt head, a bolt body, and a return spring. ETA COMING SOON I saved a few bucks but still got a great gun! Made at the Benelli facility in Urbino, the newest Franchi Affinity 3 has a larger charging handle and a bigger bolt release than the original Affinity. I sold both and went back to Beretta Extrema II whichhas never had a cycling issue. Designed by John M. Browning in 1898, the Browning Automatic-Five was first produced by FN (Belgium) in 1902 and licensed to Remington Arms in 1905, who produced it as their Model 11 until 1947. . Affinity 3.5. Overall, the pros and cons of the Benelli shotgun should be carefully considered before making a purchase. Looking to get into a Benelli Montefeltro, Franchi Affinity, or a Weatherby Element in 20ga. These are the only Turkish made autoloaders I can recommend. Retay Arms Masai Mara EVO Camo ($850 in camo) The affinity actually fits me a little better, I think due to the raise rib on the barrel. Sure, folks wanted ribs on their Model 12s for trapshooting, but there wasn't much debate about the "good autoloader" or the "good shotgun" back then. This means that while Benelli now owns the company, it still produces guns separately from its new parent company. Benelli Montefeltro vs Browning Silver Hunter, Browning Maxus Hunter vs Benelli Montefeltro, Benellis Montefeltro shotgun features a slim, graceful forend, which, combined with an anodized, lightweight receiver, keeps the weight minimal and the swing quick. As far as my own preference, in a 12 gauge it would be the Fabarm USA L4S as an upland gun and the Remington V3 as a plain-Jane looking, but do everything type of autoloader. Whether that's worth more to you is your decision. I can't find a franchi local to hold but held the Benelli and it felt great. That's part of the reason it stands out so much. I have a friend who does a lot of mountain grouse hunting in Montana. I like the classic look of the Montefeltro vs the Beretta. Lookin in that $800-$1100 range. If you had an A-5 in an autoloader or a Winchester Model 12 ("The Perfect Repeater") in a slide action, you were good. -Relatively expensive: Franchi shotguns are not cheap, with most models costing over $1000. Aug 29, 2012 #6 G I have a Montefeltro. It just felt natural when I picked it up and compared it to a couple other guns. I don't need camo or any special recoil stuff just want a gun that will go boom a bunch of times without having to mess with anything. Any reason why I shouldn't get one is there a better option for around the same money. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. It's a great gun. Guess I could add that I've shot a Montefeltro 20 since the '90s, and think the world of them. The nephew just bought the Intensity. The new A5 "kinematic action" in 12 gauge remains a hard gun to love. Again, rather than fix these potential issues, Benelli again wants you to buy a brand new gun, the Ethos, which is too light and too expensive to have mainstream appeal. Barnum stands for Tactical. "Of the many dozens of 20 gauge repeaters I've tested and owned, none of them are as remotely as hard on your thumb as the Benelli M2 and now, the Franchi Affinity. In the specific case of my grandfather, it had to, for that was the only firearm he owned. Nevertheless, the Vinci rates as a good gun, if you don't mind its peculiarities and somewhat alarming aesthetics. May 15, 2021 #31 . If you want to save some money get the Franchi. Leave this field blank. The monefeltro is also a great gun,imo it shoots smoother than most other benelli's, don't know why, just seems it to me. Franchi has a rich history of making high-quality firearms. shoot some 1oz shotshells in it and it will do fine. Franchi Votes: 0 0.0% . We have updated our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy as of May 5th, 2020, Lucky Draw CA Pig Hunt - Shotgun Options Help, Handgun virgin seeks advice & recommendations. This is the least expensive semi-auto shotgun produced by Benelli. I carry a 20 gauge montefeltro because it's very light weight . Additionally, some users have reported issues with the guns reliability, particularly when it comes to firing shells that have been damaged or deformed in some way. Ya'll can have it lol. Thanks. Put handguns head to head to compare size, weight, capacity, and more However, if you are looking for something with more features or customization options, then there may be better choices out there for you. The standard Benelli Montefeltro and M2 models are classic fare and they rate as good guns. You are using an out of date browser. Why this minor change is called a redesign is anyone's guess, but the several Affinity models I've tested have been solid performers. But, I agree- total b.s. With good triggers and overall excellent assembly, it is both a very solid autoloader that is fairly priced. This product has either been removed or is no longer available for sale. You must log in or register to reply here. I am not going to pay Benelli's prices when there are less expensive guns that are just as reliable. We will discuss their history, their products, and their customer service departments. Inertia Driven Operating System Target through Magnum Shell Operating Range Vent Rib Barrel Chrome Lined Barrel Screw- In Choke Barrel IC, Mod and Full Choke Tubes and Wrench Red Fiber Optic Front Sight 4+1 rds. Their guns are used by professionals all over the world, and they offer a wide variety of models to choose from. Many people who own them report being happy with their purchase. Anything internal drastically different? A friends Monte does the same thing. The Franchi Affinity, an inertia gun, is assembled at the Benelli facility in Urbino, Italy. 870 12ga of a browning citori, those browning are incledibly good handling if they are a touch heavy. They also have a wide variety of resources available on their websites, including FAQs, manuals, and instructional videos. Franchis products are popular among both recreational shooters and professional shooters. Benelli Ultralite in the semi auto category. Anyone have experience with either of these guns? Both companies have knowledgeable staff members who are always willing to help. I'm hoping tobuy another semi-auto 12gawaterfowl gun for next season (will use it for various other things too - pheasant, turkey, small game, crow). At the time, I was able to purchase it for just over $1300 so it may be at the top edge of your budget. . 414. I'm curious if anyone has shot/usedboth - what are your thoughts? Apr 28, 2019 #3 BriarPatch99 Senior Member Franchi is owned by Beretta (Holdings) .. Franchi is imported by Benelli USA .. Their guns are used by many professional shooters and hunters, and they have a reputation for being very reliable and well-made. Is Benelli that much more worth the price than the Franchi? Franchi and Benelli are part of the Beretta group. Screw 3.5" for bird hunting. I ended up getting a Franchi Instinct L at my local Scheels for $699.99 (849.99 regular). I purchased a franchi affinity last year and I love it. mazzgolf I am looking at possibly purchasing a new shotgun for upland. She fell turkey hunting and put a gouge in the stock and the wood underneath wasn't nearly as nice as the outer wood. I assume higher resale value with the benellli but that likely won't come up, $250 difference up front (locally $999 for Benelli, $750 for Franchi). I have recoil sensitivity issues..pretty serious actually. I've narrowed down my choice to either of these two: There are some pros and cons of each. -Limited ammunition capacity: Most Franchi shotguns have a limited ammunition capacity (usually no more than five rounds). Never again. The company is headquartered in Urbino, Italy. For a medium priced, soft shooting gun in a seven to 7-1/4 pound 12 gauge, consider the Remington V3, Winchester SX-3, Browning Silver, or Browning Maxus. Pic C) Beretta Optima/Benelli Crio: - It can be identified by measuring a flush mount choke tube. This operating system dominates centerfire autoloading handguns and was the system used by the famous Maxim machine gun, but it has never sold well when applied to shotguns. Retay vs Benelli vs Franchi 20 or 12 gau Btw, I've got a Tristar G2 410 and an Escort 20 gauge auto and really like them both. Powered by Invision Community, NJDFW 2021-2022 New Jersey Hunting and Trapping Digest, https://www.benelli.it/en/arma/super-black-eagle-3-wood. Benelli keeps trying to reduce the felt recoil, with mixed results. A short-stock version of the original, the Franchi Affinity 3 Compact Semi-Auto Shotgun offers optimal fit customization for a variety of shooters, including youth. Its a great woodcock gun but seems to have issues with grouse. Softest and most reliable gas auto I have ever owned, and I have owned them all. Shotshell, Reloading, Ballistics, & Chokes. (Nor do many shooters like the "double shuffle" recoil of the A-5, which actually increases the felt recoil. I asked him what he wanted and he said 650$ I told him I was in my way with the money. Salesman was saying benelli has a chrome lined chamber vs non on the franchi. Affinity 3.5. The walnut versions are great looking guns, as befits a Weatherby. Anybody have any input? It also only came with 2 chokes, no fiber optic sight and the receiver is just regular steel instead of case hardened. If I can't kill it with 3 inch then it won't get killed. -Editor). It is a higher quality gun and the action is smoother. Only difference is the recoil spring is under the forearm. But I'm a cheap bastard and thus went for the Affinity over the M2 which I was also looking at. Franchis fall under the Benelli umbrella of brands (along with Stoeger, Uberti, and French gunmaker Chapuis). If you are feeling a bit strapped for cash, consider the Mossberg 930, Remington V3, or Weatherby SA-08. I love it. The added some kind of ball-and-detent mechanism to the SBE3that ensures the bolt gets into battery, even if knocked out of battery or is slowly moved into position. The stock on this is unreal for just a normal Monte. I have seen some good deals on some over unders come through there. It feels so good in my hands. It may not display this or other websites correctly. I would keep an eye on cabelas gun library online. Back in 2012, Phil from Field & Stream commented on the then newly released Fabarm USA XLR5, saying, "I have not cleaned the gun yet (this is known as testing, not laziness) and after about 600 rounds it started having trouble with my slow 11/16 ounce reloads. Our sample gun was a 28"-barreled 12 gauge . For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. After researching and reading numerous incredibly positive reviews by gun "experts", I purchased a Grey Hunter. "All men die, not all men really live". These are all gas operated guns with three inch chambers. Throw a m2 znd franchi affinity on your list . Anyone know what the difference is between the franchi affinity and the Benelli montefltro? Affinity 3 Elite Upland. The Montefeltro has an attractive satin finished stock and graceful forend. It is 2-3/4" long and threads are located at the muzzle end of the choke (top of choke where choke notches are.) Stay Up-To-Date With the Latest on Franchi. Last edited: May 18, 2018 May 18, 2018 #2 Arcola Well-known member Joined only time its not ideal is in the woods that are thick, but open country it swings great. It wasn't uncommon for your dove gun, pheasant gun, duck gun and recreational clays gun to be the same gun. Thanks for the responses guys, I live in northern NY and do most of my crow hunting in some pretty cold temps. It makes for a pretty durable wood stock. I do not like all the complaints about the SBE3 shooting high. Franchi Affinity- High-performance hunting machine with excellent maintenance record and fantastic shell per game mileage. The direct acting shotguns with the Benelli system kick like a mule. It was a surprise, considering the generally good performance of earlier Beretta autos and the Urika 2 in 12 gauge. It is a great buy for the money and a good gun in general. 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Once again these two chokes have the same outside . When it comes to shotguns, Benelli and Franchi are two of the most well-known brands. FORLOH AllClima Softshell and AllClima Stretch Woven Pant Review. Didnt read any of the other posts but for easy uplandfield type hunting, get a nice beretta over under in 20ga. One such disadvantage is its price tag; Benelli shotguns are generally more expensive than other brands on the market. The franchi is nice, but it is not a benelli. With its high price tag and potential reliability issues, it may not be the best choice for everyone. My wife has a 20 ga monte and its a great gun. Go with Uncle Sy. It uses an ultrareliable Inertia Driven operating . If Im hunting wild chukar I use my beater semi auto and I have a SBE for waterfowl. Come join the discussion about safety, gear, tips, tricks, optics, hunting, gunsmithing, reviews, reports, accessories, classifieds, and more! Buddy of mine got one also, and compared it to his Benelli M2 and he feels cheated that he paid that much for the Benelli. It shoulder well and Ive patterned waterfowl loads and XRs out of it and it shoots great! Back then, no one much cared about wild shell variations, for it was the standard 12 gauge, 1-1/8 ounce, 1200 fps, low brass field load for most upland game and the 1-1/4 ounce, 1330 fps, high brass "duck and pheasant" shell for everything else, even geese. Benelli Montefeltro . A 60/40 pattern is 3 inches high, a 70/30 pattern is 6 inches high at 40 yards. I like the Franchi for its Mobil choke system (so I can reuse the Carlson extended choke tubes I already have) and the price (I might even consider getting the 3 for a lower price - but for now, I'm looking at the 3.5). Benelli Montefeltro vs Franchi Affinity. In spite of all its advantages, the Benelli shotgun also has some disadvantages that should be considered before making a purchase. No idea concerning the montefeltro. I bought it in college because 1) I wanted a Benelli auto and 2) it was nice to look at. You must log in or register to reply here. However, it is priced right, a soft shooter and has a very good track record. Not being a contrarian, but looking at these two guns, theyre identical. In 20 gauge, the six pound Weatherby SA-08 and Benelli M2 Comfortech are tough guns, but not at all tough to carry. Both are light and feel great. Full length raised and/or ventilated ribs were very popular on double-barreled guns. I used the ethos all last season and it was great for all day carrying. Current guns interchange with Trulock's Beretta/Benelli style. The A400, in 12 gauge, rates as a good gun today; the smaller gauges not so much. Im not certain..not claiming to be an expert. Posted on 12/4/13 at 12:40 pm 0 0 I am on the fence which one. They seem pretty similar. As others have mentioned, the main differences are comfortech, action spring in the stock vs forearm, and generally a more polished gun. This was the case with my great-grandfather, grandfather and even my father for much of his life. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, there are better choices out there. Copyright @2023 TigerDroppings.com. Full Member. I have a mossberg 500, and a Stoeger 3000. Now that the original Civolani patents have expired, there is a glut of inertia models on the market. They are good guns. killerv the franchi affinity is a very nice inertia auto imho. There are more advanced gas autoloaders out there, at least the way some choose to look at it. I hope to take it after Chukars this year.. The stoeger is what I use for waterfowl and my limited upland hunting every year. Benelli does make a nice shotgun though, no doubt about that. It is a great gun that also looks great. A TSA recoil pad reduces recoil by 50% to diminish soreness from repeated shooting. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Newsletter Sign-Up. Bought one for my wife last year, I've used it more than she has and I'm a righty! The A300 is a smidge heavier and you have to clean it more but it recoils less. The montefeltro has a flat rib, the Franchi has a raised rib more like the SBE2. The floating part of the bolt compresses a spring and that's how the gun works. Gonna call Franchi tomorrow. I also shoot a Benelli SBE II for ducks and love it. Look up the Benelli click I beleive the Franchi is effected by it but SBE 3 is not. The gas system is incredibly simple and innovative. The franchi is a clone to the benelli m2 field. I am back in the saddle for wanting either the Montefeltro, Franchi Affinity, or the Weatherby Element in 20ga. Don't know pecans about lefties and right handed guns, but do know lefties are the only ones ever expressing a need to be on a certain end of the blind. Finally, the Benelli shotguns recoil can be significant, which may be an issue for shooters who are inexperienced or sensitive to recoil. Affinity 3.5 Waterfowl Elite. An Ithaca 37 would be my choice with a wood stock. Raised rib on Franchi, low rib on Benelli, nicer wood/bluing on Benelli vs matte finish on Franchi . This slim, trim Franchi model handles beautifully and points instinctively to bring down a variety of game birds. Ultimately, it depends on the individual gun and situation. I like how the sight is a little raised on the Affinity while the montefeltro is lower. CZ75BD Review: A Good Pistol for Self-Defense? It's essentially a Benelli M2 without the comfortech stock. First post, not much of a water foul guy but I figured you guys should know about a reliable Semi. I love benellis, franchis, and all that they make though. Never hear a righty say, "I'm right handed, so I need to be". A forum community dedicated to Shotgun owners and enthusiasts including the Remington, Beretta, and Mossberg shotguns brands. If you want to change the rib height, it is easy to do. A little over 600 shells through the affinity and I love it so far. I don't think you can go wrong for the money. I suspect that the 'T' in P.T. You can buy a high grade blued/wood gloss Weatherby Element 20 ga for $875ish, so that makes that one attractive if you don't have your heart set on a Benelli or Franchi. If youre considering buying a Franchi shotgun, doing some research to find out which model best suits your needs is a good idea. Im sure theres someone on here that knows more than I about their processes. Aug 11, 2021 #1 ; They seem pretty similar. With an included shim kit and sling stud, you'll be easily able to adjust the drop of the gun or attach a sling for more comfortable shooting and carrying. Franchi is an Italian company that has been making high-quality shotguns for over a hundred years. They are known for being reliable and well-made firearms.