The Benelli Nova is a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun with a 28-inch barrel and a 3.5-inch chamber that also accepts 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. At 8 lbs. and 49.5 inches overall, it's a full-size field gun. The synthetic stock has a black finish. Capacity is 4+1 rounds. Sights are a red-bar front and metal bead mid sight. 
 

Key Specifications: 

• Brand: Benelli 
• Model Name: Nova 
• Gauge: 12 Gauge 
• Chamber Size: 3.5" (also accommodates 2.75" and 3") 
• Action Type: Pump Action 
• Capacity: 4+1 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 28 inches 
• Overall Length: 49.5 inches 
• Weight: 8 lbs. 
• Sights: Red-Bar Front and Metal Bead Mid Sight 
• Stock Material: Synthetic with Black Finish 
• Trigger Type: Standard Trigger 
• Safety Mechanism: Crossbolt Safety 
   

Features 

The Nova's stock and receiver form a single-unit construction, which eliminates the joint between them and contributes to the gun's weather resistance. The ComforTech recoil pad reduces felt recoil on heavy 3.5-inch loads. The pump action cycles reliably across the full range of 12-gauge loads from light field shells to heavy waterfowl ammunition. The crossbolt safety is positioned in the trigger guard. 
 
The 28-inch barrel is the standard waterfowl and upland length, providing good swing and follow-through for moving targets. At 8 lbs., the Nova is on the heavier side for a pump-action, which helps dampen recoil but requires more carrying effort.

The Benelli Nova generates consistent positive feedback for build quality and reliability. The one-piece stock/receiver construction is mentioned often as a durability feature that owners appreciate when hunting in wet conditions. Pump action smoothness is well-regarded, with most owners reporting clean cycling across different loads.

The versatility across shell lengths (2.75", 3", 3.5") is a practical advantage for hunters who use different loads for different applications. Recoil with 3.5-inch loads is noticeable at 8 lbs., but most users find the ComforTech system helps. Some owners add an aftermarket recoil pad for longer shooting sessions.

The main trade-off owners discuss is price relative to competing pump-actions. The Nova costs more than Mossberg and Remington equivalents, and buyers weigh that against the Benelli's build quality and track record. Most long-term owners consider the premium justified. Negative feedback is limited, occasional mentions that it lacks some features available on pricier Benelli models.