As a seasoned hunter and shooting sports enthusiast, I’ve spent years evaluating shotguns, and the Benelli Super Vinci series consistently comes up in conversation. For a long time, the Benelli Super Vinci chokes were highly sought after, and the gun itself was a benchmark for lightweight, inertia-driven performance. But the Benelli Super Vinci discontinued status raises a lot of questions. This article dives deep into the Super Vinci, covering everything from its features and performance to the Benelli Vinci vs Super Vinci differences, available Benelli Super Vinci chokes, and ultimately, why Benelli made the decision to stop production. We’ll also look at Benelli vinci reviews and the overall super vinci review landscape.
The Benelli Super Vinci, introduced in 2014, was designed as an evolution of the original Benelli Vinci. It aimed to address some of the criticisms leveled at the Vinci while retaining the core benefits of Benelli’s inertia-driven system. The key selling point was its incredibly lightweight design – significantly lighter than many competing semi-automatic shotguns. This made it a favorite among upland bird hunters who spend long days walking fields. The Super Vinci utilized a redesigned receiver and forend, contributing to the weight reduction. It was available in 12 and 20 gauge, with various barrel lengths and camouflage options. The inertia-driven system, a hallmark of Benelli shotguns, minimizes felt recoil and allows for fast follow-up shots. Benelli focused on creating a shotgun that was both reliable and comfortable to carry.
The Benelli Vinci vs Super Vinci debate is common among potential buyers, especially now that both models are largely unavailable new. The original Vinci, while innovative, received some criticism regarding its durability and occasional cycling issues. Benelli addressed these concerns with the Super Vinci. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
| Feature | Benelli Vinci | Benelli Super Vinci |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6.5 lbs (approx.) | 6.3 lbs (approx.) |
| Receiver | Aluminum Alloy | Redesigned Aluminum Alloy |
| Forend | Composite | Redesigned Composite |
| Reliability | Some reported cycling issues | Improved cycling and reliability |
| Price (Original MSRP) | $1,299 | $1,499 |
Essentially, the Super Vinci was a refined version of the Vinci, with improvements focused on reliability and weight reduction. While the Vinci offered a good value proposition, the Super Vinci aimed for a higher level of performance and durability. Reading benelli vinci review articles from the time will highlight these initial concerns.
The Benelli Super Vinci chokes are a crucial component of the shotgun’s versatility. The Super Vinci utilizes the Benelli Crio Plus choke system, which features a longer parallel section for improved shot patterns. This system is designed to minimize shot deformation as it exits the barrel, resulting in tighter, more consistent groups.
The choice of choke depends heavily on the type of hunting or shooting you’re doing and the distance to your target. The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) offers excellent resources on understanding choke constrictions and their applications. Many aftermarket choke manufacturers also produce Crio Plus compatible chokes, offering even more customization options.
This is the million-dollar question. The why did Benelli discontinue the super vinci answer isn’t a simple one, and Benelli hasn’t provided a single, definitive explanation. However, several factors likely contributed to the decision. The primary reason appears to be a shift in Benelli’s manufacturing strategy and a focus on consolidating production lines. The Super Vinci, while popular, didn’t achieve the sales volume of some of Benelli’s other models.
Another contributing factor was the introduction of the Benelli Ethos, which shares some design similarities with the Super Vinci but incorporates further refinements and a different manufacturing process. The Ethos effectively became Benelli’s flagship lightweight semi-automatic shotgun. Furthermore, supply chain issues and rising manufacturing costs may have played a role in making the Super Vinci less economically viable to produce. The benelli super vinci discontinued announcement came as a surprise to many, but it seems to be part of a broader strategic realignment within the company.
Since the Benelli Super Vinci discontinued, finding one new is extremely difficult. The used market is now the primary source for these shotguns. When purchasing a used Super Vinci, it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect the gun for any signs of wear or damage. Pay close attention to the receiver, forend, and bolt assembly. Check for any cracks or excessive play in the action.
Here are some things to look for:
Expect to pay a premium for a well-maintained Super Vinci in excellent condition. Prices can vary depending on the gauge, barrel length, and camouflage pattern. GunsAmerica and similar online marketplaces are good places to gauge current market prices.
Despite being discontinued, the Benelli Super Vinci remains a highly regarded shotgun. Its lightweight design, reliable inertia-driven system, and compatibility with the excellent Crio Plus chokes make it a compelling choice for upland bird hunters and sporting clay shooters. While finding one may require some effort, a well-maintained Super Vinci can provide years of enjoyable shooting. Understanding the Benelli Super Vinci review history and the reasons behind its discontinuation allows you to make an informed decision if you’re considering purchasing one on the used market. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations. Leave No Trace principles should always be followed when hunting and shooting in the outdoors.