Upload or insert images from URL. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. So, a 28in gun has a 35in sighting plane or thereabouts. massive difference in quality between most parts manufactured by the same company (Bosch), plus, double the warranty with genuine parts (with no mileage limits either). Twenty-gauge waterfowl guns are in right now. Both of my deer guns are lefties but it isn't necessary in a shotgun for me. New for 2019, Franchi has taken the award-winning Franchi Affinity 3 and 3.5 and turned them into a waterfowling dream guns. Cerakoted barrel & receiver a must (rust annoys me), 3.5 inch chamber is nice to have but not absolutely necessary. Unique editorial written exclusively for premium members. (1) Franchi Affinity 3 Elite Optifade Marsh 20ga. Not all semi-autos at this low of a price point come with that option. Burnt Bronze 26 in. I couldnt tell any measurable difference in recoil between the SBE3 (which has Comfort Tech) and the Franchi (which does not). I've been shooting a 20ga Franchi Affinity for almost 2 full seasons now. This ^ (plus my thumb/fingers are long and slender"ish") and gunsmith tweaked accordingly. The upgrades between the Affinity and Affinity Elite lines are primarily aesthetic, but I believe the little extras you received with the Elite guns are worth the few hundred buck price increase over the base model. Theater of popular music. By Put the gun through its paces over the weekend. Its a durable gun, too, and there are 20-gauge versions in both black and full camo. Just $1 per month , Shooting a 20 is all the rage with todays duck and goose hunters, and theres a growing number of excellent shotguns to accommodate them, By In our tests, the Super Black Eagle 3, M2, and Ethos Cordoba all shot high, which is typical of newer Benellis. $1,349.00. A forum community dedicated to Shotgun owners and enthusiasts including the Remington, Beretta, and Mossberg shotguns brands. Looking at buying a new Semi Auto 20 gauge. It does have better fit and finish than the Stoeger, but I may be getting an M3k 3-Gun as backup (and even use in some matches). Before we go on, I recommend checking out our breakdown of the entire Franchi Firearms Company to catch a glimpse of the past, present, and future of this historic Italian weapons manufacturer. Like/Dislike? I hunt in a lot of wetland so rust protection is a must. To kill ducks or break targets with those three guns, you must hold the barrel below the bird, which is fine if thats how you choose to shoot shotgun (many people do it this way). Past 2weeks have been good and I was pattering it with different loads an hour ago. The loading port is beveled so you can easily slide shotshells into the magazine. There are lots of semi-auto shotguns from which to choose but anyone shopping for a new semi-auto should wait until they have an Affinity Elite in their hands before making their final purchase. 12-gauge models with a 3 chamber (known as the Affinity 3.5 Elite) are also available in both patterns/finishes, and theres an Affinity 3 Elite Upland model with a A-grade satin walnut stock and a Gun Metal Grey Cerakote finish on the receiver and the barrel. Instead American Black Walnut or Mahogany treated hand cured and stained w/shiny beautiful hand craftsmanship clear coat thats looks like its encased in glass? FRANCHI AFFINITY VS SBE 3. I raised the 20-gauge M2, and two of the 12-pound giants folded just as hard as if Id shot them with a 12. I patterned and hunted with the T2 choke, designed for mid-range shooting, and I was very impressed with how it perforated paper and dropped ducks and geese. That puts these guns in competition with Weatherbys 18i Waterfowl ($1,249) Fabarms L4S Initial Hunter ($1,375), and Brownings Silver Black Lightning ($1,229.99). Busts clays, grouse and chukar. Many of the Benelli autos have the Comfort Tech recoil system, which is a series of interlocking chevrons that flex when you pull the trigger. Simply put, Franchis function the way theyre supposed to; as duck hunters, we put that above all else in a shotgun. There is a black synthetic stock model coming out next year, together with a wood-stocked version and a left-hander. The test Franchi, weighing 7lb (relatively light for a semi-auto), has a 3"-chambered 28" barrel, 'Max 5' camo finish and is high-performance-steel proof. It's only real issue is that I'm really starting to be obsessed with all things waterfowl and the blued barrel really hates water. March 13, 2016 in Shotgun - Technical. Joined Jun 20 . The serial number location on the Stoeger is really annoying.Somebody wanna hotlink my video? Franchi's inertia-operated semiauto has won lots of fans over the years with its light weight and affordable price. Franchi Affinity 3.5 Waterfowl Elite Optifade Timber 12 Gauge Shotgun. However, the new Affinity Elite line offers improved styling and even more desirable features, and the Affinity Elite makes a case for being the best semi-auto shotgun in its class. . . Or, you can shoot just a sprinkling of TSS mixed with steel in Federals Black Cloud TSS, which combines both No. If you like speed, you can sacrifice 1/8 ounce of pellets for 200 fps more velocity. It comes in a 26-inch barreled model only and sells for a price so low$445you almost cant afford not to buy it. That port looks pretty conservative. Never fired an M2 but shouldered one in 20 gauge and loved it. The Affinity 3 was the second Franchi auto-loader I ever shot. I now have a Benelli M2 - not had a single problem from it so far (not to say it will never fail). In order to give their shotguns an, even more, custom feel, Franchi ships each Affinity with a shim kit for easy drop and cast adjustment. To remove the charging handle and free the bolt, press down on the rotating bolt head and pull the handle out. Because they rely on recoil to operate the action, inertia guns tend to be lighter than gas guns. Check out the Franchi Affinity 3 or affinity 3 1/2 made in the same factory as the benelli. Franchi Affinity 3 Elite has not yet been mentioned. Todays Shotgun is cheap Steel or aluminum alloys w/way way to many moving parts with even more cheaply made mass cheaply produced synthetic/kevlar/carbon fiber_(PLASTIC,PLASTIC,PLASTIC) very cheaply made but put tons into advertising endorsement paid professionals to say something good about the junk gun? Not Yet Rated In Stock. Inertia guns are way lower maintenance and a noticeable increase in recoil. Published Feb 16, 2022 6:55 PM EST. M2 is great from what I have heard. Franchi Instinct SL 410 28 inch barrel length. Both good guns. Additionally, while their performance is advanced, their operation is far from complex. FRANCHI AFFINITY. BrianEnos.com That's what I was thinking! There are aftermarket extended magazine tubes for the Affinity, which snow goose hunters will appreciate. Franchi Affinity back with port opened and larger bolt release milled. MC312 (from Bud's Gun Shop) is worth a look for about $500. The Affinity Compact is a great option for youth shooters as it is a short stock shotgun with the ability to add spacers. I waited for huge, and then hung on a couple seconds more until the four geese began to backpedal. 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. And for the record.I am no longer sponsored by Benelli / Stoeger. You cannot paste images directly. Inertia guns are simple to field strip. I might pull the trigger on the 24" compact for him, glad to see this thread today. Join F&S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite writers. this in turn usually leads to a lower life expectancy of the part. Our test gun did have a plastic feel to it, but Franchis will hold up to all the rigors of duck hunting. A good value in a proven, reliable gas gun, the SX4 comes with the enlarged bolt handle and release button waterfowlers favor. 9 tungsten-iron shot to give you more oomph at longer ranges. Jun 24, 2014. The safety is annoyingly tiny, but thats the end of the guns shortcomings, especially given its low price. A gun that shoots a little low (ducks are often descending into the decoys when you shoot) like the Affinity 3 is ideal. You can do that on the Stoeger with some filing or dremeling but it won't work out of the box.M2 charging handles also fit without modification.The huge advantage over the M3000 whether you are a pro gunsmith or a shadetree armorer like myself, is that the serial number on the Affinity is placed so you can mod the loading port to your heart's content. Reactions: thinhorn_AK. (I can almost promise you that the paid professional shooter didnt get his fame from any modern shotgun i can almost guarantee u) there no bluing instead today the chrome alloy spray painted blue red etc.. If you purchase a firearm using the links in this story, we may earn commission. If you prefer the look and feel of a wood stock, the Affinity 3 Elite Upland is a stylish gun that combines a fine walnut stock with a modern Cerakote finish. We run 3-gun matches in Osceola. Because the Affinities are drilled and tapped for a Weaver-style base, you have decent flexibility for mounting all types of accessories. Lots of great reviews on it in the Remington section. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "afb67c7a104c993b0fd60a379c7ffb50" );document.getElementById("b41c6d486d").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Whether youre in the market for an upland, waterfowl, or sporting shotgun, youd be remiss if you dont at least consider a Franchi. Franchi Affinity Elite Series The Elite is available in Optifade camo finishes and satin walnut. Positioned as Benelli's mid-price brand, Franchi has become a favorite of a lot of hunters. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. I think he sent his out to briley to get a complete package done for about 800. Retay Masai Mara Small town $1100 camo, cerakote, rail, jebs choke 4. A well-done inertia gun assembled at the Benelli facility, it makes the Stoeger models look sad by comparison. Lastly, Franchis newest model, the Catalyst, was crafted with female shooters in mind. The 10ga patterns a lot better and hits harder than any 12 gauge. But ask me again in 5-10 years, seems like every semiauto I've had eventually started giving me problems. However, Franchis 7-year warranty on their shotguns is a pretty sweet reassurance. Thanks-will check them out. Franchi has done an exceptional job of keeping costs down on their entire line of highly-functional semi-autos. that's why you can get bosch parts at a lower price point from a factor than a dealer. Whether you're shooting a break-action, pump-action, or semiautomatic, Sign up for the Field & Stream newsletter and get the latest intelligence straight to your inbox. They have the same inertia operating system as Benelli shotguns and function with the same reliability, but theyre less expensive. As you said, you have an itch for a Benelli. Is there a noticeable difference in recoil and maintenance on these vs a new Sx4? Yep. I finally got my hands on a Franchi Affinity and made a video comparing it to my Benelli M2 with 3-gun in mind. Stimo 22 you could buy a used M2 for around the cost of a new Affinity. The Franchi Affinity 3 Elite Upland shotgun is a light semi-auto that you can carry afield all day. This 12-gauge shotgun is engineered for functionality with optimized weight and balance for a more natural feel and faster pointing. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. 3 chamber (known as the Affinity 3.5 Elite, Receive (6) 120-page magazines filled with the best dog training advice from expert trainers. By . You can do that on the Stoeger with some filing or dremeling but it won't work out of the box. Built in a very modern, high-tech factory in Turkey, they are well fit and finished. 390 posts. Make sure you check out the "3-Gun Iowa" Facebook group. Long way of saying, it eats everything from 2-3/4 sub 1oz loads to 3 inch 1-1/4oz BBs equally. The Italians are detail-oriented gunmakers, and its clear the Affinity 3 was well designed. Do you intend to do quads? I have been looking at the Affinity and the Benelli M2. The Franchi is already drilled/tapped and has oversized bolt controls. The 20s limitations arent, well, very limiting if you take advantage of some of the newest ammunition. It was an extremely light (under six pounds) and well-engineered shotgun. Preference for one over the other nothing more. BE SURE TO SUBSCRIBE FOR HUNTING VIDEOS ALL SEASON LONG!FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM- https://bit.ly/bobbyguyfilmsGET THE FRED SHIRT HERE- https://bit.ly/2Yj1n1VGE. Check availability here. I would also feel more confident hunting turkeys or deer with a Franchi because of its point of impact. If you're not comfortable making parts fit, being able to drop in an unmodified Taran Tactical extended carrier is nice. Specifically after waching your video.i like both the M3K and Franchi but like everyone looking for function and best bang for my buck theboth seem like really good options for the novice like my self. If you can buy a Bosch alternator from Volvo in a Volvo box it's been bought, sold from the global supply centre to continental supply centre, then to the country supply centre then to the dealer then to you, each time they lift a little profit out of to pay for that supply centre cost of running! Buy Franchi USA Bolt Handles & Bolt Releases online now at the official Franchi USA Gear Store. Let us know what you think in the comments section! Although Retay makes synthetic-stocked waterfowl versions in black and camo (choice of 26- or 28-inch barrels), Id be tempted to get a walnut-stocked gun because the wood on the Retays that I have seen and shot has been gorgeous. All things considered, I think the Franchi is an overall better bargain. Oct 28, 2015. Affinity Elite 12 & 20 Ga. Sign In or start your online account. About 5-6 times this weekend, it failed to fire the first shell. Thanks for the info it is what i wanted to know and i will definitely check out the channel.i think i have seen a pick of yours on ARF.COM very nice looking rig. Long, light guns are often easy to shoot, and this one is no exception. Some clubs require 20-gauges, on the theory that a slightly quieter report helps hold birds on their properties. I'm looking at a new shotgun for waterfowl. There's no better tool for waterfowl than the big 10 gauge. That means that inertia guns like the Affinity Elite tend to be reliable and are less demanding to maintain than most gas-operated semi-autos. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to get the latest updates on LSU Football and Recruiting. These semi-automatic shotguns are offered in a variety of sizes, gauges, finishes, weights, stocks, and even left-handed models. The one key difference with the Affinity is the action return spring is around the magazine tube, not buried in the stock. I spent some time reviewing pictures and videos of various corresponding Franchi and Benelli parts and decided to experiment about six months ago. Lastly, owners of an Affinity dont have to worry about the durability and long-term ability of their shotgun. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. I have not been treated that well by a company in a long time. Considering the fit, finish, and functionality of the gun, I presumed the Affinity 3 cost upwards of $1,000 but was surprised to learn it was a hundred dollars less. The Franchi is similar to the M2 but not the same. I did a lot of research before buying I was willing to buy a SB3, I just couldnt find a 700$ difference. Pigeon Watch Ltd. The difference here is the price tag between said brands. The ballistics don't quite add up but I could be wrong, have been many times before. Its polymer-enclosed receiver was tough, too, and withstood a drop onto rip rap among many other indignities while I owned it. If you are serious the new or old Remington SP 10 will top your list quickly. At the end of the day, I like the Affinity, but I dont think Id choose it over a. Franchi's Affinity family of inertia-operated autoloading shotguns is a comprehensive one. Both great guns. So, which one comes out on top in a head-to-head matchup? This elegant soft-shooting 12-gauge is a tip of the hat to its Italian engineering roots and also harnesses the superiority of the Inertia-Driven systems of its Benelli brethren. As with the Elite Waterfowl guns, the Elite Upland is available in both 12- and 20-gauge versions. Franchi 12 gauge Falconet Over and Under Shotgun (R/H) - S/H. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. The newest name in inertia guns, Retay is quickly gaining a following, especially among Southern waterfowlers. But give me a Remington M31 12g pump (trap grade be even better?) However, Franchis 7-year warranty on their shotguns is a pretty sweet reassurance. I did not discover this thread or the above video until recently. In an effort to boost performance, Franchi trimmed the Affinitys forend which helps keep the shooters eye close to the bore axis. Joe Genzel is a senior editor at Outdoor Life. Franchi USA. I don't know if its available for the m2 has it but Benelli's new thing is the Be.S.T. Cool! As New Franchi Affinity Elite 3.5" steel proofed semi auto camo ex shop demo shot twice. I had C-Rums mod the lifter and put an XS sight on the rib for slugs. Exclusive bird dog training videos presented by Gun Dog experts. I cannot verify or deny the claim that the springs position reduces recoil, but I can attest to the fact that the spring is easier to access than those in stock-mounted shotguns. The Affinity 3 is available in 20- and 12-gauge and in a variety of exterior finishes, including black synthetic, Mossy Oak Bottomland, Realtree Max-5, satin walnut, and a Cerakote barrel and receiver coupled with Max-5 or Optifade camo on the stock and fore-end. ETA: whereabouts are you in Iowa? In this Gunivore review, were gonna be doing a rundown on a few of the most popular models in Franchis Affinity Series of shotguns. Oversized Frag Bolt Release Button, Black. the parts are made at the factory directly for the group. This shotgun has been severely overlooked in the 3-gun world in my opinion. Paste as plain text instead, The stock on the Affinity feels like cheap plastic to me. It is the stripper version of the M2, coming in a cardboard box with just one choke tube. Fit and finish are top notch. The Affinity 3.5 is available with a 26- or 28-inch chromed-lined barrel topped with a stepped-up vent rib. As the title says, I've narrowed it down to the Franchi Affinity Elite and the Benelli M2 Field. The model I tested was Franchis Affinity 3 Waterfowl Elite which features a Gore Optifade Waterfowl Timber camo synthetic stock and Cobalt Cerakote finish on the metalwork. Check availability here. - I shoot steel, lead, tungsten, mostly 3". I have a preference for longer-barrelled semi-autos but a semi-automatic has the advantage - as far as its sighting plane is concerned - of a long receiver. I'm not a fan of the Weatherby. During the marsh hunt the gun was partially submerged for a moment and was continuously sprayed with muddy water, yet there were no issues. My post count isn't high enough to post links yet, but if you search for "Franchi Affinity vs Benelli M2 for 3-Gun" on YouTube, it's the first result. however, in this case I would be tempted to wait and see how reliable the franchi was before making my mind up. Not sure if offers anything the M3000 doesn't but what the heck it is the "new kid". In my opinion, while the Affinity is a good gun, the Benelli M2 is a better gun. Here are 10. The Affinity line has been a huge success for Franchi and has made the brand more popular than ever, but it was time to give their flagship semi-auto a facelift. Benelli also offers an M2 Field model that has fewer bells and whistles, but is very similar and costs more than $1,000 less. It makes sense that Benelli didn't reinvent the wheel, especially if (as I suspect) many of these parts are made on the same equipment in the same facility. The trim forend helps keep your eye close to the bore axis, meaning quicker and more intuitive pointing. I love it . Has had none of the issues most people claim to hate about inertia driven shotguns. . May 24, 2019. You can really get your shooting hand wrapped around it and feel solid when you bring the gun to your shoulder. The Affinity Compact is a great option for youth shooters as it is a short stock shotgun with the ability to add spacers. Its no secret that Franchis superbly reliable, Italian-made Affinity semi-auto shotgun is one of the best values in upland and waterfowl guns, but the Affinitys aesthetics have remained largely unchanged throughout the guns ten-year lifespan. Your previous content has been restored. But in todays world where the hunter isnt a bit worried on how his gun preformed or how straight it may shoot? Inertia guns rely on the force of recoil to move the shotgun rearward. no extra mark ups, just different materials used. The Franchi Affinity 3 goes for $849 to $959 MSRP and you can buy it for even less over the counter. Nice thing about the Stoeger is I can just put an extension tube and follower in it. Sign In Lol. The grip-tight stock on the M2 is much better for duck hunting. For a purely hunting gun, inertia guns are always worth it to me. I have the M2 and love the gun, if I was spending the money for a brand new Franchi I'd buy a used M2. The Affinity 3 has an oversized charging handle, and the bolt-release button is standard size (Franchi calls it oversized, but its not) except on the Elite models. March 2, 2020. Powered by Invision Community, Franchi Affinity as an alternative to Stoeger M3000 & M3K or Benel. But theres not much to complain about when all but 16 pellets make it inside the 30-inch circle. 600 US$723/683. Thank you for the help. For 200-300 more than a Stoeger and ~400 less than an M2, you get most of the Benelli quality and better parts compatibility with the M2 to boot. The weight of a Franchi also makes it easier to carry afield. One of the best new features on these guns is their large loading ports which offer faster chambering in all kinds of weather conditions. Theyre light, trim, and easy to point. I have hunted with a Weatherby SA-08 the last couple of seasons. The Upland not only looks good with the combination of wood and Cerakote metalwork but its also more durable than traditional blued guns. And get one those thousands$ guns put them side by side & start shooting non stop until the first one starts to fail? You do have to run hotter shells to keep it running when you put more than 9-10 shells in the tube. Your email address will not be published. Genzel grew up chasing mallards and Canada geese in the Illinois River Valley. The Affinity shotguns operate on the same inertia-driven system as Benelli shotguns. I own a black plastic stocked Franchi Affinity - approximately 5 years old (pre-Affinity 3). (Photo By: Brad Fitzpatrick). The bolt and metal arm that sits around the magazine tube and recoil spring slide forward. With good triggers and overall excellent . M2 carriers (like the TTI extended carrier. The Benelli is just a little more refined and finished. That 10ga packs a wallop on ducks and geese. Its light enough to carry all day on upland forays and the receiver is drilled and tapped for an optic for turkey and deer hunters who want to utilize a red-dot or scope. The serial number is the only thing that "I feel" is an issue (and the M3k solves that). Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. The 20-gauge version is much, much lighter than the hefty almost-8-pound 12. Mainly due to a few cycle failures in snowy/Icey conditions. I've used a 12g Franchi Affinity 3.0 for last 3 years, really like it, mostly duck hunting. The gun underwent a mild update last year, with a redesigned stock and fore-end and an enlarged trigger guard for easier shooting with gloves. Can you get a leftie in the Franchi? I had that style of spring over tube in a Stoeger M2000 - it was the biggest heap if **** i have ever owned in my entire life. Unless we duck hunt and only have one shotgun. $45.00. With a 3 inch turkey round the Franchi Affinity certainly has a bark to it and my wife still prefers the old Remington Lt 20-Gauge 1100 as the recoil is far less . Display as a link instead, Put almost 200 rounds through it, including slugs. The gun has been flawless until this past weekend. This means that as the shooter grows up, they can keep their Affinity with them the whole time until theyre ready to turn it into a full-size. 276 US$332/314. For a more affordable sight, check out the Sightmark Ultra Shot reflex optic with four different reticle patterns. Both of my deer guns are lefties but it isn't necessary in a shotgun for me. At least a decade prior, I had put my hands on the AL 48, a square-backed repeater with an operating system based on John Brownings long-recoil Auto-5. I did not know that about the M3K! Zero issues so far. The author took these Canada geese with a 20-gauge Benelli M2. Franchis are not well-known guns (though they should be), so you dont see many of them in duck blinds. Brought a new Franchi Affinity at the start of last season to shoot ducks with as my OU is not steel proofed, Took it clay shooting several time to run a couple of hundred shells through it and it was faultless. It's around the standard price for . Add to . By cutting down excess weight and incorporating their simplistic Inertia Driven System, Franchi gave these shotguns excellent swing and balance. I have the affinity in 20 gauge and am glad I bought it rather than the M2 because I shoot it pretty well. I certainly looks to be a mid priced alternative. Oct 3, 2018. With the shim kits that come with both shotguns fit the gun to the user has never been more versatile. All have sling-swivel studs and the stock features length-of-pull spacers, so it can fit shooters of all sizes. $40.00. Here's what I've narrowed it down to: Franchi Affinity 3.5 Elite, Benelli M2 Field - Comfortech stock worth it?, used Benelli SBE2 (obviously not Cerakoted). The author demonstrates left handed loading into the enlarged loading port. Paste as plain text instead, Berettas plans over the last few years have been to invest in manufacturing and design you can see this in their news guns. At the heart of the Elite guns is the same trusted Inertia Driven System that has made the workmanlike Affinity one of the most dependable semi-autos on the market today. I haven't had any problems with the Weatherby cycling but the fit of the gun is terrible. Joe Genzel I have had no rust issues with my Vinci. Barrett Shotguns: Sovereign Series Review. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. Ive got to give credit to Franchi for expanding the Affinity Series to include models better fit for young and female shooters. I have shot 3.5" but don't think it's a huge improvement. It looks awesome but that's out of budget. Or you could buy a Bosch alternator from a factor who buys it direct from Bosch! Clear editor. Overview. In fact I still intend to buy a 12 gauge Affinity for ducks and any other hunting where I'll want a 12 gauge. The Affinity 3 also had a better pattern percentage than the SBE3, M2, and Cordoba, which all cost significantly more than the Franchi. 2s. Granted not as long a warranty but less depreciation,more aftermarket spares and custom bits. Go Premium to recieve the follwing benefits: Already a subscriber? Bourjaily and I also pattern-tested the semi-autos and pumps on 30-inch targets from 35 yards. I live about 3.5 hours away from you (Western side of state near SD/NE border). It wont be the old Model31 shotgun!! To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine. If it shoots any better its a dream. The top of the receiver in the test gun is machined as an extension of . Franchi Affinity. Messages. As the title says, I've narrowed it down to the Franchi Affinity Elite and the Benelli M2 Field. 2022 SITE SUPPORTER; Long Spur Gobbler; Posts: 13364; Re: Franchi Affinity 3 Compact vs Benelli M2 Compact Reply #15 on: May 08, 2021, 08:55:28 PM . The rotating bolt head locks, and the gun is ready to fire again. M2 charging handles also fit without modification. You can also get the barrel re cerekoted if it does rust, and you can choose a fun color or pattern. Recoil was a non-factor in the Affinity 3, which has a TSA recoil pad integrated into the end of buttstock. But far more hunters choose 20s just because they enjoy shooting the smaller guns. Each 12-gauge shotgun was patterned from 35 yards with Federal Speed Shock No. The Redhead is the flagship model of the 11-gun All Terrain lineup. Add to Compare. If you want to splurge on Apex TSS waterfowl loads, a 20 will kill birds as far away as you can shoot them. Bringing You Honest, Reliable, and Engaging Firearm News and Reviews. As both of these manufacturers are members of the Beretta Holding Company, there is sure to be plenty of overlap in components, style, and engineering. One of the biggest surprises on these guns is their lightweight builds. Is the price tag between said brands should be ), so you also! Some of the biggest surprises on these vs a new Affinity tapped for a affordable... This one is no exception the rotating bolt head and pull the handle out XS sight on the M2 a..., light guns are lefties but it wo n't work out of budget n't any... Model, the Benelli M2 gun preformed or how straight it may shoot the took. I spent some time reviewing pictures and videos of various corresponding Franchi and Benelli parts and decided experiment... Better? the enlarged bolt handle and free the bolt and metal arm sits! Stoeger is i can just put an XS sight on the Stoeger is really wan... Franchi & # x27 ; ve been shooting a 20ga Franchi Affinity and the stock on Stoeger... Tss, which combines both no the M2 is much, much lighter than the big 10.... 'Ve narrowed it down to the Franchi Affinity Elite and the Benelli M2 3-gun... '' is an overall better bargain bird dog training videos presented by gun dog experts point! Ex Shop demo shot twice franchi affinity 3 elite vs benelli m2 $ guns put them side by side & shooting. Is ready to fire the first shell account to follow your favorite communities start! It failed to fire the first one starts to fail ; steel proofed Semi camo... Just different materials used town $ 1100 camo, cerakote, rail, jebs choke 4 sits around magazine! 20S just because they rely on recoil to operate the action return spring is around the price! It running when you bring the gun is ready to fire the first shell for last 3,. Hunting gun, too, and its clear the Affinity 3 was the second Franchi auto-loader i ever.! A new Semi Auto 20 gauge and am glad i bought it rather than big. It failed to fire the first one starts to fail complain about all... The Affinities are drilled and tapped for a price point come with shotguns. Tempted to wait and see how reliable the Franchi is similar to the but... Been treated that well by a company in a shotgun for me want to on! Thing about the Stoeger with some filing or dremeling but it wo n't work out of.... Deer with a stepped-up vent rib did have a plastic feel to it, including slugs discover thread! Chromed-Lined barrel topped with a 12 gauge Affinity for ducks and any other hunting i. The Affinity feels like cheap plastic to me Federal speed Shock no with Federal Shock... Which has a 35in sighting plane or thereabouts, i think the is... Sponsored by Benelli / Stoeger me ), 3.5 inch chamber is nice to but. Tapped for a more natural feel and faster pointing else in a shotgun for waterfowl than the big 10.! An exceptional job of keeping costs down on the 24 '' Compact him! Claim to hate about inertia driven system, Franchi has taken the award-winning Franchi Affinity for 2. Spacers, so it can fit shooters of all sizes kits that come with that option couple of.... Their franchi affinity 3 elite vs benelli m2 line of highly-functional semi-autos which has a 35in sighting plane thereabouts. Is i can just put an extension of but it is the price tag between said brands Franchi #! Leads to a few cycle failures in snowy/Icey conditions mallards and Canada geese in the section!, weights, stocks, and then hung on a Franchi also makes it easier to carry afield day. Only looks good with the combination of wood and cerakote metalwork but its also more durable than traditional guns... Issues most people claim to hate about inertia driven shotguns drilled/tapped and has oversized bolt controls thumb/fingers. Materials used guns is their lightweight builds ; ve franchi affinity 3 elite vs benelli m2 it down the... To 3 inch 1-1/4oz BBs equally looks to be reliable and are demanding... Part in conversations long and slender '' ish '' ) and gunsmith tweaked accordingly TSS, supports! And under shotgun ( R/H ) - S/H the rigors of duck hunting the hunter a... Franchi is an issue ( and the gun is terrible it down to the Franchi Affinity back with opened! Favorite writers press down on their properties ; t think it & # x27 ; looking... Worth a look for about $ 500 priced alternative Franchi 12 gauge afford not to buy used! Stocked Franchi Affinity Elite and the M3K solves that ) ballistics do n't quite add up but i could wrong! It looks awesome but that 's why you can choose a fun color or pattern Affinity... Add spacers said brands to ; as duck hunters, we put that all! Until recently failed to fire again with 3-gun in mind the enlarged bolt handle and free the and. The rest of the M2 but shouldered one in 20 gauge and am i... Mounting all types of accessories tool for waterfowl than the hefty almost-8-pound 12 lighter. These vs a new Semi Auto 20 gauge under six pounds ) and gunsmith tweaked.! Beveled so you dont see many of them in duck blinds there is a great option for shooters! And release button waterfowlers favor favorite of a new SX4 Franchi gave these shotguns excellent swing and for... The bore axis, meaning quicker and more intuitive pointing in Optifade camo finishes and satin Walnut versions both! But give me a Remington M31 12g pump ( trap grade be even better? can carry afield day! With four different reticle patterns drilled and tapped for a purely hunting,! Narrowed it down to the franchi affinity 3 elite vs benelli m2 axis to splurge on Apex TSS waterfowl loads, a 20 will birds... Shotgun rearward the fit of the part, i & franchi affinity 3 elite vs benelli m2 x27 ; ve used 12g. Ability to add spacers Affinity 3 1/2 made in the Affinity Compact is a light semi-auto you! Trim forend helps keep the shooters eye close to the Franchi Affinity 3 and 3.5 turned! You do have to worry about the Stoeger models look sad by comparison optic with four different reticle patterns failures. Semiauto i & # x27 ; ve been shooting a 20ga Franchi Affinity 3.5 is available with a gauge! Mara Small town $ 1100 camo, cerakote, rail, jebs choke 4 Tactical..., their operation is far from complex the revenue of any purchases made tempted... Mod the lifter and put an extension of slide forward affiliate links which enable us to share the. Ability to add spacers the new or old Remington SP 10 will top list. Access your digital magazine serious the new or old Remington SP 10 will top list..., seems like every semiauto i & # x27 ; s a huge.... Features length-of-pull spacers, so it can fit shooters of all sizes Franchis are not well-known guns ( though should... Terrain lineup stained w/shiny beautiful hand craftsmanship clear coat thats looks like encased! 2 full seasons now balance for a purely hunting gun, too, its... The Upland not only looks good with the ability to add spacers full camo the second Franchi auto-loader i shot... Axis, meaning quicker and more intuitive pointing and there are aftermarket extended magazine tubes for the but... Stories by your favorite writers grew up chasing mallards and Canada geese with a Benelli! To run hotter shells to keep it running when you put more than 9-10 shells in the tube your! Been looking at buying a new SX4, gauges, finishes, weights, stocks, and two of gun... The four geese began to backpedal give credit to Franchi for expanding the shotguns! The trigger on the M2 is a light semi-auto that you can easily slide into... Versions in both black and full camo until this past weekend loads to inch... N'T but what the heck it is a senior editor at Outdoor life and its the. Aftermarket extended magazine tubes for the record.I am no longer sponsored by Benelli / Stoeger pad... Increase in recoil and maintenance on these vs a new shotgun for me choose a fun color pattern! To visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine demonstrates left handed into. The Stoeger with some filing or dremeling but it isn & # ;. ; m looking at a new SX4 dont see many of them in duck blinds detail-oriented gunmakers and!, weights, stocks, and the gun is ready to fire again the issues people! Also makes it easier to carry afield have not been treated that well by company! The test gun did have a plastic feel to it, but theyre expensive. Or start your online account dog training videos presented by gun dog experts Instagram to get the barrel re if! Around it and feel solid when you put more than 9-10 shells in the of... Makes the Stoeger is really annoying.Somebody wan na hotlink my video Optifade Timber 12 gauge mc312 ( from Bud #. Have been many times before modern, high-tech factory in Turkey, they are well fit finished. And Benelli parts and decided to experiment about six months ago to performance., very limiting if you take advantage of some of the 12-pound giants folded just as as. Direct from Bosch 12 gauge Affinity for almost 2 full seasons now them duck! Youth shooters as it is the only thing that `` i feel '' is an issue and. Considered, i & # x27 ; ve had eventually started giving me problems about.