When it comes to waterfowl shotguns, two guns that seem to come up most often are the Benelli SBE3, and the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus. Today we're going to do a shotgun showdown between these two shotguns to finally determine which of these is the better pick for waterfowl hunting. This isn't all just redneck science. We've developed a system to rank shotguns head-to-head across 5 categories, each ranked from 1-10. (10 being the best) This is called the SOSA TEST (Steve's Observational Shotgun Analysis To Effectively Save Time) Below is an example of the score sheet with each category.

You'll notice that in addition to the 5 main categories, there are columns for bonus points, and more importantly, the handicap. Each shotgun is given a handicap based on its price. This allows us to compare shotguns at different price points, and determine which one is a better bang for the buck. (Considering more expensive shotguns are more likely to score higher in given categories). Semi-autos, pump-actions, and break-actions all have different handicap ranges as each type of shotgun typically caps out at a certain price. Below is our guide for the sem-auto handicaps. This handicap is deducted at the end of the test. 

If you have a difference of opinion or would like to share YOUR thoughts on this epic showdown, connect with us on the TFL COMMUNITY!   

Let the Showdown Begin

Now that you know the process, let's get into it. Quick side note, the SOSA TEST is what we use to determine the ratings we give shotguns on our Shotgun Finder Website. The value rating accounts for the handicap, and the overall rating does not. If you haven't yet, be sure to check out the Shotgun Finder Tool! (CLICK HERE)

DISCLAIMER: As we shoot, review, and spend more time with various shotguns, our opinions, rankings, and scores may change as we continue to test and compare shotguns. Reference the Shotgun Finder Tool to read the latest ratings. 

Quick Specs

Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus

• $2,049 (-7 Handicap)
• 12 gauge
• 3.5" chamber
• 26", 28", or this 30" Steelium Barrell (Comes with Optima-Choke HP System and comes with 5 extended chokes)  
• 8lbs 
• Length of Pull 14 1/2" Out of the Box, with removable 1/2 inch spacer, and additional 1" spacer to get up to 15" length of pull
• Drop at Comb 1 1/2" (Adjustable with provided shims)
• Drop at Heel 2 1/2"

Benelli Super Black Eagle 3

• $2,299 (-7 Handicap)
• 12 gauge
• 3.5" chamber (also available in 3")
• 28" Barrell (also available in 26" - The 24" has a pistol grip) 
• 7lbs
• Length of Pull 14 3/8" Out of the Box. Adjustable with alternate butt-pad options
• Drop at Comb 1 3/8" (Adjustable with shims as well as various cheek pieces)
• Drop at Heel 2 1/8"
• Runs the Crio choke tube system (Comes with 2 extended chokes) 
• 6 different color variations

Category #1: LOOKS

• SBE3: The SBE3 has a very modern and distinguishable look to it. Very clean lines and great camo options. We gave this shotgun an 8.5/10
• A400: Also a very modern-looking shotgun. It's not as sleek as the Benelli but there are a lot of nice touches that make up for this. 8.5/10
  

Category #2: ERGONOMICS

• SBE3: The SBE3 has good overall ergonomics. But this is an inertia shotgun. This causes for noticeably more whip/instability than the A400. The sleek and thin lines leave something to be desired when it comes to grip points. Compared to the A400, the Benelli gives a less confident grip. However, in the grand scheme of things, it's a very nice shotgun. 8/10
• A400: The Beretta really shines in this category. At first, you may feel it's chunky, thick and awkward. However, when you actually mount this shotgun, you realize that its ergonomics are very intentional and lead to a fantastic shooting experience. The gas system makes it forward-heavy and very smooth to maneuver. The icing on top is the rubber over-molding throughout that makes using this shotgun comfortable. We were very confident while shooting the A400. 8.5/10
  

Category #3: RECOIL & RELIABILITY

• SBE3: With target loads, the recoil on these shotguns was very similar. The SBE3 was straight back. Again, the inertia system created a bit more muzzle jump with the Benelli. When we switched to hunting loads this was apparent. This Benelli has impressed us before and it did again when it was able to cycle 3 shots from over the head. (Most inertia guns struggle with this) 7.5/10
• A400: One thing was for certain: The Beretta Kick-Off recoil system worked. This paired with its adequate grip surfaces and heavier weight created a more enjoyable shooting experience in this category.  9/10
  

Category #4: BUILD QUALITY

• SBE3: Both of these guns are built very well and should last a long time if maintained. Given their prices, this should go without saying. The Benelli's inertia system makes it super easy to break down. 9/10
• A400: Where the Benelli may be overall easier to break down and clean, the Beretta is still very simple for a gas gun. The coolest feature is the forend cap that comes off with a single twist. 9/10

Category #5: SHOOTING VIBES

• SBE3: For this category, we shot some sporting clay-style targets as well as hand-thrown speed shooting. Both guns shot great. However, when it came to speed shooting hand-thrown clays, the Benelli couldn't keep up. The main difference is its slippery grip points, whippy barrel, and trigger pre-travel. 8.5/10
• A400: Every area that the Benelli was lacking in was made up for by the Beretta. The great grip, smooth swing, and fantastic ergonomics made speed shooting this shotgun a breeze. 9/10

Category #6: BONUS POINTS

• SBE3: We gave the Benelli a bonus point for being incredibly reliable. The inertia system keeps the gun clean, and we've shot this shotgun a lot with minimal issues overall. 
• A400: We gave a bonus point to the Beretta as well. When we think "Waterfowl shotgun" the A400 is what comes up. This is a great shotgun: Reliable, light recoiling, and most importantly, SOLID. Yes, it feels solid in the hands, but this Beretta is a super consistent shooter. One word would be solid.

FINAL SCORES

There you have it! The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus has come out on top. Is the A400 the ultimate waterfowl shotgun? We always have a blast shooting this shotgun and do believe that it is among the best semi-auto shotguns out there for waterfowl. What do you think? We'd love to know! Chime in on the TFL Community, social media, or YouTube comments!

Whether our targets in the field or our targets in life, we will only hit what we are focused on, so live the #targetfocusedlife