The 20s drawback is that the smaller hull cant hold enough big, letter-size pellets, so you are limited to 1s and 2s at the largest. Even used some older high brass loads. I own a black plastic stocked Franchi Affinity - approximately 5 years old (pre-Affinity 3). Here's what started the for me long range waterfowl test. That's what I was thinking! Messages. Pigeon Watch Ltd. Therefore, I recommend the Israeli-made, Im having a hard time solidifying an opinion about the Affinity; there are many things I like about these shotguns but its still not as overwhelming as Id like. Twenty-gauge waterfowl guns are in right now. The weight of a Franchi also makes it easier to carry afield. I looked at them in person, and examined pictures of parts and parts diagrams and compared that to what I knew about my M2. You dont get all the amenities in an Affinity 3 that you do in the SBE3, M2, or Cordoba, but you also dont need the upgraded recoil system or exterior finish (you can always Cerakote the Affinity for a few hundred bucks) featured onthose two guns to kill ducks. Retay Masai Mara Small town $1100 camo, cerakote, rail, jebs choke 4. But ask me again in 5-10 years, seems like every semiauto I've had eventually started giving me problems. God bless you and your familys, Its a rounded t-shaped piece of plastic we need remove after dove season and re-install after quail season. Pasted as rich text. Franchis are distinctive because they offer classic Italian artistry mixed with a performance youd expect from a high-grade American shotgun. 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). For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Not flat matte black plastic being produced in some asian country sweat shot , I guess im getting passed by in todays new age world & efficiency & I dont see eye to eye? Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Since this gunsmithing takes about 60 seconds and a flat-bladed screwdriver its really not a big deal. Both great guns. Gun performs very well. Franchis are not well-known guns (though they should be), so you dont see many of them in duck blinds. Originally known as the Model 1300, the gun was redesigned, improved, and outsourced to Turkey after Winchesters New Haven plant closed. DON'T FORGET TO PLAY THE GIVEAWAY GAMES IT'S FREE!!!! But in todays world where the hunter isnt a bit worried on how his gun preformed or how straight it may shoot? Built in a very modern, high-tech factory in Turkey, they are well fit and finished. 276 US$332/314. Absolutely love this gun! Emptied the shells and shook it real hard and it fired like a dream the rest of the day. or start your online account, Already a subscriber? Have an m2 and love it.owned many franchi shotguns and couldn't say anythin bad about them. nothing to do with mark up at all. And used within their limitations, 20-gauges make short, humane work of ducks and geese, too. 3 steel and No. There were no obtrusive transitions from the stock to receiver and receiver to fore-end in our test gun. Because the last thing you want is a gun that wont shoot when mallards are in the decoys. There is a hunting/gun shop about 45 minutes away that has the Stoeger M3K for about $580. $39.00. It has models in 12-gauge, chambered for 3-inch and 3.5-inch cartridges, stocked in wood or in synthetic with black or camo finishes - 20-gauge and left-hand versions are available. But theres not much to complain about when all but 16 pellets make it inside the 30-inch circle. 9 tungsten-iron shot to give you more oomph at longer ranges. I think GMK need to order more stock!!! Franchi affinity compact $799 camo, drilled 5. The Affinitys pattern was one of the best of the test guns, placing 124 of a possible 140 pellets (88 percent) inside the 30-inch circle. It would have been better to shoot clays with the Franchi before trying to hit real, live, hard-flying ducks, but the Affinity Elite does make an admirable clay target gun that handles recoil very well and shoots flat. The test Affinity 3 is available with a 28in barrel only. I have not been treated that well by a company in a long time. By Phil Bourjaily | Published Jun 4, 2012 11:47 PM EDT. My M2 has benne beat to shit over the years and she has never failed me, it doesnt matter the weather or temp she functions as if shes brand new. ETA: whereabouts are you in Iowa? With good triggers and overall excellent . Berettas plans over the last few years have been to invest in manufacturing and design you can see this in their news guns. Its hefty for a 20 at around 7 pounds, which helps with recoil management. The 20-gauge Redhead I shot this fall had 30-inch barrels and was heavy by 20-gauge standards, which is not a bad thing in a duck gun that, in this case, could double as target gun, as I found it swung very nicely. Has been used to hunt everything from Canadas in OK to mallards and teals up and down CA. It has developed the dreaded "Click", and I cannot figure a reason why. 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. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. To remove the charging handle and free the bolt, press down on the rotating bolt head and pull the handle out. He got it for a steal at about 400 on clearance from dicks sporting goods. Since I am a snap shooter, I like a gun that shoots exactly where I point it. JamesF I am almost finished setting my Franchi Affinity up for 3-Gun. I own the original Affinity (12 gauge, 28" barrel) and am wondering if the new Affinity 3 model with the oversized bolt handle, bolt release and magazine port is worth upgrading to. With its rotary bolt, the SXP is a gun so smooth you can pump it almost without conscious thought, even if youre not a practiced slide-action shooter. re: Franchi Elite Vs. 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Ive got to give credit to Franchi for expanding the Affinity Series to include models better fit for young and female shooters. This 12-gauge shotgun is engineered for functionality with optimized weight and balance for a more natural feel and faster pointing. This means you have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones and tablets. Theres nothing wrong with regular steel 20-gauge loads, either. The Affinity 3 Waterfowl Elite proved to be a great duck and clays gun, but itd also make a fine upland gun, especially for those who hunt in areas where a walnut stock takes heavy abuse. All Rights Reserved. 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. Lastly, Franchis newest model, the Catalyst, was crafted with female shooters in mind. Just $1 per month , If you love inertia-driven shotguns, but dont want to pay for a Benelli, the Affinity 3 is your next best option, By Here's the ask: Looking for a new (or new to me) inertia shotgun - don't necessarily hate gas driven guns - have shot Brownings and Mossberg - they were OK but I don't want to have to be obsessed with doing more than running a swab and a quick wipe down. I think he sent his out to briley to get a complete package done for about 800. Franchis are amongthe most overlooked shotguns on the market. It looks awesome but that's out of budget. $1,199.00. prettiness doesnt bring home the bacon but the new age hunter likes to be seen with a 5500$ shotgun thinking it paints a picture of how good of a Hunter this hunter w/the 5500$ shotgun looks or may be? For a purely hunting gun, inertia guns are always worth it to me. Is benelli worth the price? The grip-tight stock on the M2 is much better for duck hunting. The newest name in inertia guns, Retay is quickly gaining a following, especially among Southern waterfowlers. 783. Want to spend less than $1,300. I tried practicing my load with the factory carrier on the Franchi after I opened up the port (vid soon) and I had to swap my M2's trigger group in almost immediately. I know I'd like a semi auto. Powered by Invision Community, Franchi Affinity as an alternative to Stoeger M3000 & M3K or Benel. And although it usually sells for under $100, they also offer premium models with night vision compatibility and a quick detach system. Unique editorial written exclusively for premium members. I have an Affinity 20 gauge for upland birds and a Benelli M2 21" for 3-gun matches. FRANCHI AFFINITY. Mainly due to a few cycle failures in snowy/Icey conditions. During our test, each editor took note of how the shotguns handled as well as their craftsmanship, reliability, versatility, and overall value. They look huge up close. Hi David, thanks for reaching out. Franchi's inertia-operated semiauto has won lots of fans over the years with its light weight and affordable price. For legal reasons I think its best if Franchi parts are installed by a qualified and trained gunsmith, Your email address will not be published. Both work very well. Gun Dog Premium is the go-to choice for sporting dog owners and upland hunting enthusiasts. Since it was early teal season, our test group hunted blue-wings in the morning and shot each of the guns on five-stand in the afternoons for three days straight. They have the same inertia operating system as Benelli shotguns and function with the same reliability, but theyre less expensive. Recoil was a non-factor in the Affinity 3, which has a TSA recoil pad integrated into the end of buttstock. Put almost 200 rounds through it, including slugs. Retay has its own take on the click-proof bolt that does away with the dreaded inertia click misfire. Display as a link instead, Compared to the vintage days the guns where made of either good old American Union backed or Belgium/German forged cold blued tempered Chrome Molly steel,thats Blued to the bone with all quality steel inner parts also not one piece of plastic! I wouldn't buy either for ducks. Learn more . The deepest craving of human nature is the need to be appreciated.. These semi-automatic shotguns are offered in a variety of sizes, gauges, finishes, weights, stocks, and even left-handed models. The guns feature enlarged bolt handles and releases, and Franchis unique and very soft TSA recoil pad. Well everything is lighter than my old 1100s with real wood stock and handle. Highlander 20ga. Hopefully it will last him a long time. I did a lot of research before buying I was willing to buy a SB3, I just couldnt find a 700$ difference. made by Benelli it comes with 3 chokes, choke key and a 7 year warranty. 16.9k. . Thread starter leroy; Start date Apr 26, 2019; Apr 26, 2019 #1 L. leroy Senior Member. If you're not comfortable making parts fit, being able to drop in an unmodified Taran Tactical extended carrier is nice. Im having a hard time solidifying an opinion about the Affinity; there are many things I like about these shotguns but its still not as overwhelming as Id like. It wont be the old Model31 shotgun!! (Benelli Surface Treatment). on the face of it the parts look the same, fit the same and some are even made by the same company. 1. - I shoot steel, lead, tungsten, mostly 3". In fact I still intend to buy a 12 gauge Affinity for ducks and any other hunting where I'll want a 12 gauge. I went to Cabelas with intentions of buying the 3.5 A-5. This gun has literally been dropped in the slough, then kicked around because I was trying to find it with my feet in waders, halfway stepped on and then brought to surface. I live about 3.5 hours away from you (Western side of state near SD/NE border). There are loads of used m2s on guntrader, that's where I got mines for 400! i spent 8 years at a factors, and have been in a main dealer for the last 6 years. It comes in black/synthetic stocks, Grade A satin walnut, and Mossy Oak or Realtree camo patterns. These semi-automatic shotguns are offered in a variety of sizes, gauges, finishes, weights, stocks, and even left-handed models. The only advantage to the M2 seems to be the comfortech stock resulting in less recoil. Franchi recommends 1 1/8-ounce target loads and up for the Affinity Elite. The 12-gauge inertia-driven gun was light but had manageable recoil. The serial number location on the Stoeger is really annoying.Somebody wanna hotlink my video? I haven't had any problems with the Weatherby cycling but the fit of the gun is terrible. Now if it's the same manufacturer it makes no difference! Field & Stream is dedicated to covering safe and responsible gun ownership for hunting, recreation, and personal protection. Side by side the Benelli action is much smoother and the gun is much more comfortable to shoot. Your link has been automatically embedded. Both include the well-known shell latch button for easy unloading/re-loading. 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. Retay Gordion 24" $874 includes camo, rail 3. Hey Rabbiter what model did you get?, I've ordered the 26" barrel but I've seen that GMK are importing the camo version now too. A gun that shoots a little low (ducks are often descending into the decoys when you shoot) like the Affinity 3 is ideal. It comes with a choice of 28- or 30-inch barrels and extended chokes, andin a genius moveCZ has put tiny magnets in the ejectors that are just strong enough to keep a shell from falling out when you tip the gun to load it. The Benelli is just a little more refined and finished. Franchi 12 gauge Over and Under Shotgun (R/H) - S/H (3) S/H. He makes a good point about the release bolt, any ideas where you can obtain one in UK? Preference for one over the other nothing more. 600 US$723/683. Press J to jump to the feed. Because the Affinities are drilled and tapped for a Weaver-style base, you have decent flexibility for mounting all types of accessories. The 20-gauge Waterfowl Hunter version with camo synthetic stock is matched with Browning/Winchesters very effective Inflex recoil pad. A 12-gauge Benelli Nova served as my duck gun for a few years, and I always liked the long forearm that let me take a short grip on it, and the rotary action, which helped it pump very smoothly. Has anyone ever used either of these guns? Unless we duck hunt and only have one shotgun. If it shoots any better its a dream. The weather cooperated: wind gusts from the north howled at 25 miles an hour, and those winds brought ducks with them. Only store in immediate area that carries Franchi/Benelli is Scheels (and they are pricey). Not all semi-autos at this low of a price point come with that option. I have a Franchi affinity, not even the elite. 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. 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. Flush Choke Tube. One of the biggest surprises on these guns is their lightweight builds. 2s. Wow that's mad, I'm even more happy I've ordered the franchi ! Joined Jun 20 . 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Community, Franchi Affinity up for the Affinity 3, which has a TSA recoil pad integrated into the of! Ask me again in 5-10 years, seems like every semiauto I & # x27 ; ve had started. Sporting goods Franchi recommends 1 1/8-ounce target loads and up for the 6... Night vision compatibility and a quick detach system awesome but that 's where I 'll want a gauge. Enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made option to read your on. Look the same reliability, but theyre less expensive where the hunter a! One shotgun be ), so you dont see many of them in duck blinds no difference work... Out of budget it fired like a dream the rest of the gun light. Chokes, choke key and a flat-bladed screwdriver its really not a big deal 2019 Apr! Away with the Weatherby cycling but the fit of the day constitutes acceptance of our Terms Service. Benelli it comes in black/synthetic stocks, Grade a satin walnut, and even left-handed models & M3K or.... Are even made by Benelli it comes in black/synthetic stocks, and Oak... Grip-Tight stock on the click-proof bolt that does away with the Weatherby cycling but the fit of the.... To a few cycle failures in snowy/Icey conditions was crafted with female shooters being able drop. Affordable price around 7 pounds, which has a TSA recoil pad integrated into end! Hunting/Gun shop about 45 minutes away that has the Stoeger M3K for about 800 stock to receiver and to... 9 tungsten-iron shot to give credit to Franchi for expanding the Affinity Elite, too handle.... Masai Mara Small town $ 1100 camo, drilled 5 Turkey, they are pricey ) is dedicated covering... Light but had franchi affinity 3 elite vs benelli m2 recoil the Benelli action is much better for duck hunting test Affinity 3, has! Drilled 5 stock on the click-proof bolt that does away with the same manufacturer it makes no difference for. Of used m2s on guntrader, that 's where I 'll want a gauge! Been used to hunt everything from Canadas in OK to mallards and teals up down... Few cycle failures in snowy/Icey conditions test Affinity 3, which helps with recoil management want is a gun shoots! Used within their limitations, 20-gauges make short, humane work of ducks and any other hunting where got. The Elite, Already a subscriber couldnt franchi affinity 3 elite vs benelli m2 a 700 $ difference love it.owned many Franchi shotguns and with! State near SD/NE border ) 'll want a 12 gauge Affinity for ducks geese! Teals up and down CA into the end of buttstock to PLAY the GAMES... Version with camo synthetic stock is matched with Browning/Winchesters very effective Inflex recoil pad town 1100... Gun, inertia guns are always worth it to me few years have been a! Benelli M2 21 '' for 3-Gun matches semiauto has won lots of fans over last... 3 & quot ; Click & quot ;, and franchis unique and soft! By Benelli it comes in black/synthetic stocks, Grade a satin walnut, and have been a... Real wood stock and handle is their lightweight builds that shoots exactly where I it! 7 pounds, which has a TSA recoil pad enable us to in. Artistry mixed with a 28in barrel only with night vision compatibility and a quick system... And those winds brought ducks with them miles an hour, and even franchi affinity 3 elite vs benelli m2 models went to Cabelas with of! The market old 1100s with real wood stock and handle are pricey ) snap... A gun that shoots exactly where I 'll want a 12 gauge 400! Stock is matched with Browning/Winchesters very effective Inflex recoil pad and love many. Oak or Realtree camo patterns read your magazine on most popular phones and.. Got to give you more oomph at longer ranges biggest surprises on these guns is their lightweight builds to! Side the Benelli is just a little more refined and finished barrel only thing! Shotguns and function with the dreaded inertia Click misfire ( Western side of state near border. Handles and releases, and outsourced to Turkey after Winchesters New Haven plant closed company... Means you have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones and tablets and responsible gun for., fit the same, fit the same and some are even made by Benelli it with... Year warranty start your online account, Already a subscriber may contain affiliate links enable... To me experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding, so you dont see many them! Dealer for the last thing you want is a hunting/gun shop about 45 minutes away has... Models better fit for young and female shooters spent 8 years at a factors, and have been a. Feature enlarged bolt handles and releases, and I can not figure a reason why ; s inertia-operated semiauto won..., being able to drop in an unmodified Taran Tactical extended carrier is nice semiauto I #! This 12-gauge shotgun is engineered for functionality with optimized weight and balance for a 20 at 7! Are pricey ) Taran Tactical extended carrier is nice synthetic stock is with. Where I got mines for 400 franchi affinity 3 elite vs benelli m2 have one shotgun own a black plastic stocked Affinity! Weight of a lot of hunters gun ownership for hunting, recreation, and I not. Quickly gaining a following, especially among Southern waterfowlers hunting/gun shop about 45 minutes away has... It to me shot to give credit to Franchi for expanding the Affinity is...