by nmwaterfowler » Mon Apr 28, 2008 8:55 pm
I bought my nova to hunt waterfowl. My plan was to quit using my browning bps 10 ga (which shot like a dream), because the shells were getting too expensive. I didn't have a 12 ga that would shoot 3 1/2" shells. I found a good deal on the nova, so I bought it mostly because of benelli"s reputation ( and I love itallian guns). My nova is the hardest kicking gun I have ever shot. 2 3/4 or 3" shells are ok, but 3 1/2" just plain hurt. Not just my shoulder, but I would always have a headache after just about 3 shots. The front forearm has always had a lot of play and makes a lot of noise. After only about 4 days of hunting with it I decided that its job description needed to change. I have since replaced it with a Benelli Superblack Eagle II with the walnut stock, and I love it. Overall I would reccomend the nova for lighter loads up to 3 in shells. It will be a very reliable and good shooting gun.