Benelli SuperNova Tactical

About the Benelli SuperNova Tactical

The Benelli SuperNova Tactical is a pump-action shotgun designed and manufactured by Italian firearms company Benelli Armi SpA. Introduced in 2006 as an evolution of the Benelli Nova, the SuperNova incorporates Benelli's ComforTech recoil reduction system and an innovative one-piece polymer receiver and buttstock construction. The receiver is built by over-molding corrosion-proof polymer onto a steel skeleton framework, creating an exceptionally strong yet lightweight structure that is impervious to weather conditions. The SuperNova Tactical features a rotating bolt head with dual action bars that lock steel-to-steel into the barrel extension, providing a massive three-lug rotary locking mechanism that safely contains chamber pressures. This rotating bolt design also enhances ejection reliability, flinging spent shells with both rotational and rearward force. Chambered in 12 gauge, the SuperNova Tactical accepts all 2-3/4", 3", and 3-1/2" magnum ammunition without modification, giving it exceptional versatility from light target loads to heavy magnum slugs. The tactical variant features an 18.5-inch barrel with a fixed cylinder choke optimized for close-range defensive use, ghost ring sights for rapid target acquisition, and a reversible crossbolt safety for ambidextrous operation. In 2022, the French Armed Forces adopted the SuperNova Tactical as their standard-issue shotgun in three configurations: 18.5" Tactical, 14" Tactical, and 28" Anti-Drone.

The Benelli SuperNova emerged from Benelli's desire to push the boundaries of polymer technology in firearms. Its one-piece polymer-over-steel receiver construction was revolutionary when introduced, eliminating the weakest point on traditional shotguns: the stock-to-receiver junction. In 2022, the French Armed Forces chose it as their standard shotgun after severe evaluation tests, beating all competitors in three distinct configurations including a dedicated anti-drone variant with a 28-inch barrel.

Benelli SuperNova Tactical specifications

The SuperNova was developed to showcase Benelli's Rilsan Technopolymer material technology. Its one-piece receiver and stock design eliminates the traditional junction between receiver and buttstock, improving durability and weather resistance. The ComforTech system uses interlocking chevrons in the stock that flex to distribute recoil energy over a longer time period, reducing felt recoil by up to 48% compared to conventional designs. The trigger pull specification from Benelli is between 5 and 8 pounds. Shim kits are included for adjusting drop and cast, and spacers allow customization of the length of pull to 13-7/8", 14-3/8", or 14-3/4". The SuperNova Tactical is available with either ComforTech stock or pistol grip stock configurations. Three-dot tritium inserts are available for the ghost ring sights. The forend is compatible with Nova pump field shotgun forends in 28", 26", and 24" configurations.