Accokeek, MD – At this week’s 2022 Safari Club International Hunter’s Convention held at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Benelli unveiled a one-of-a-kind set of semi-auto shotguns. Billed as the Magnifico “Set of Five,” this custom shotgun set pairs Old-World Italian firearm artistry with 21st-century design manufacturing.

The Benelli Magnifico Set of Five was born of a simple question: “How would the world’s most advanced semi-auto shotgun look if reimagined as an interpretation of a classical Italian custom?” The answer is expressed in a set of semi-auto shotguns—two chambered in 12-gauge, two in 20-gauge, and one in 28-gauge. Benelli’s commitment to quality manufacturing, innovation, and product refinement, blended with Italian heritage and artistry, is portrayed within the luxury sporting arms class. For the project, Benelli commissioned some of Italy’s leading contemporary artisans, including master engravers Giovanni Steduto and Valerio Peli, gunmaking house F.lli Piotti, and the leather artistry of Oscar Maschera.

Inspired by the European aristocratic “driven shoot” tradition, the Magnifico Set of Five stand as unique creations that draw on the rich tapestry of Italy’s culture, innovation, and the renowned craftsmanship imbued in the country’s unparalleled artisan heritage. The result is a masterfully creative achievement—functional art rendered in wood and metal.

In addition to showcasing Benelli’s vision of blending contemporary shotgun performance with Old-World artistry that honors Italian heritage and craftsmanship, the Magnifico Set of Five project also aims to further the vital advocacy work of Safari Club International.

Spurred by a significant interest in the purchase of these unique firearms, this luxurious, one-of-a-kind set will be sold, after which Benelli will donate $200,000 to SCI. The proceeds will help fund the organization’s wildlife conservation and humanitarian service efforts, the American Wilderness Leadership School (AWLS), and the International Wildlife Museum.

For more information on Benelli’s line of premium semi-auto and double-barrel shotguns, visit BenelliUSA.com. Read more

Accokeek, MD – For years, the Franchi Instinct L has delighted upland bird hunters looking for a high-quality, easy-handling on-ramp to the world of Italian-crafted over/under shotguns. Now, Franchi’s popular O/U series comes in an even lighter version with the new Instinct L 20-gauge 3-inch 26-inch barrel model.

With its all-steel, color case-hardened receiver, automatic ejectors, and classic Prince of Wales-style stock, the new 26-inch barrel Instinct L delivers the classical form and premium performance of Franchi’s Instinct line but at a size and weight ideally suited for fast-paced upland action.

The new Instinct L with 26-inch barrels joins the 28-inch 12- and 20-gauge models that have bridged the gap between classical O/U performance and pricing within the means of the passionate hunter.

Each Instinct L features A-grade satin walnut furniture with crisp checkering and a traditional satin oil finish that offers superior weather protection while drawing out the natural beauty of the wood. All-steel receiver construction combines automatic ejectors, auto safety, and a horizontal barrel selector switch to facilitate operation. Ventilated barrels and a ventilated rib help disperse heat during high-frequency shooting.

Additional standard features of the Instinct L O/U shotguns include a high-visibility fiber-optic front bar, IC, M, and F choke tubes, and a custom-fitted hard case.

Instinct L 20-Gauge 26-inch O/U Shotgun Specifications Read more

(Accokeek, MD) – Stoeger Industries, manufacturer of performance-grade shotguns, personal defense handguns, and airguns, is excited to announce the next extension of the company’s STR-9 series of semi-auto pistols with the release of new STR-9SC Sub-Compact and STR-9SC Sub-Compact Optic-Ready models.

Based on the original STR-9 compact 9mm introduced in 2019, the new STR-9SC Sub-Compact series meets the needs of today’s CCW practitioner. These new handguns fit the criteria of a deep-concealment defensive pistol with handling and performance features similar to a larger handgun yet at a price as affordable as it is easy to carry.

Featuring an ergonomic polymer frame and striker-fired semi-auto action, the STR-9SC Sub-Compact, and STR-9SC Sub-Compact Optic-Ready deliver performance benchmarks that exceed their low MSRP. Read more

(Bainbridge, GA) – Taurus, manufacturer of premium handguns for defense, hunting, and sport shooting, is excited to announce that its most popular everyday carry revolver line is expanding with the introduction of a 6-shot model chambered for the .327 Federal Magnum.

The Taurus 856 has proven itself as a dependable, easy-to-carry personal protection handgun for anyone who favors the reliable performance and simplicity of a revolver. The revolver’s compact design, smooth operation, and recoil-mitigating cushioned grip has made it a go-to firearm for everyday carry and deep concealment. Previously chambered only for .38 Special +P, Taurus now offers consumers a revolver based off the popular 856 but chambered for the highly capable .327 Federal Magnum.

The .327 Federal Magnum is one of the “dark horse” cartridges in the personal defense world. Based on a lengthened .32 H&R Magnum cartridge case, the .327 Federal Magnum exceeds the performance of its parent cartridge with velocity pushing toward the .357 Magnum range without the heavy perceived recoil pulse. This makes the .327 Federal Magnum-chambered Taurus an excellent choice for EDC revolver fans looking for a hard-hitting yet easily manageable 6-round capacity handgun in a compact and concealable form. Read more

With Less Than On-Second Cycle Time, New Electronic Clay Thrower is Champion’s Fastest Yet

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – Champion Traps & Targets, makers of interactive and challenging target systems and trusted eye and ear protection, announced today the official introduction of the Champion FreedomBird Auto-Feed Trap Thrower.

The fastest trap on the market in its category, the Champion FreedomBird Auto-Feed Trap Thrower is perfect for the shotgunner looking for more challenging target practice. With its ultra-fast, less than one-second cycle time, shooters can create a flurry style of targets with either standard or midi clays (using the included midi clay adapter).

“We packed as many consumer requests as possible into the new FreedomBird,” said Laurie Kokoruda, senior product manager for Champion. “The trap is designed to complement to any backyard range and with its ability to throw both standard and midi clays plus custom cart and patented spring tension adjustment, the FreedomBird offers commercial grade quality and speed.”

With a 50-clay stack magazine capacity, the FreedomBird can keep up with its own rapid fire. Shooters can adjust throwing angles (10-50 degrees) as well as distance (70-90 yards) with the main spring tension adjustment so a variety of more challenging shots can be practiced. Shooters can practice solo or with companions thanks to the included wireless remote and foot pedal. The thrower also comes with a newly designed custom cart making it easier than ever to tote the battery. The FreedomBird also features a patented spring adjustment built into the handle. Read more