First Thoughts on the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut promises to transform the shooting experience of Benelli shotgun owners. It boasts a patented recoil reduction system and customizable cheek pads, all wrapped in the classic appeal of walnut. This isn’t just an aesthetic upgrade; it’s a functional one, designed to tame the powerful recoil of inertia-driven shotguns.
I’ve spent years battling shoulder fatigue after long days in the duck blind. I was searching for a stock set that could drastically reduce felt recoil without sacrificing the reliability of my Benelli M2. The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut caught my eye with its combination of recoil reduction technology and the timeless elegance of a walnut stock.
Upon unboxing, the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut exudes quality. The walnut is beautifully finished, and the included components feel robust and well-made. The SHOCK FORCE recoil system appears to be a well-engineered addition, and the multiple cheek pad options suggest a commitment to a personalized fit.
Several aftermarket stock options exist for Benelli shotguns, but many focus primarily on tactical aesthetics or simple length-of-pull adjustments. I chose the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut specifically for its integrated recoil reduction system and the classic look of walnut, a departure from the more common synthetic offerings. My initial excitement stems from the potential for significantly reduced recoil and a more comfortable shooting experience, while retaining a refined, traditional aesthetic.
Real-World Testing: Putting SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut was at a sporting clays course, followed by a goose hunting trip. I wanted to assess the stock’s performance under both controlled and field conditions. The weather ranged from a sunny, mild day at the range to a frigid, windy morning in the marsh.
The difference in felt recoil was immediately noticeable. Even with heavy 3-inch loads, the SHOCK FORCE system noticeably reduced the impact on my shoulder. The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut took only a few minutes to swap, including the correct shims. I found the mid-height cheek pad provided the best fit for me with the factory bead sight on my Benelli M2.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple hunts and range sessions, the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. The walnut finish has held up remarkably well, with only minor signs of wear and tear from field use. Cleaning requires just a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a quality wood oil.
Compared to the original stock, the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut provides significantly improved recoil management and a more comfortable cheek weld. I can now shoot for extended periods without experiencing the shoulder fatigue that plagued me previously. This stock set has exceeded my expectations in both performance and aesthetics.
Breaking Down the Features of SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut
Specifications
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut is specifically designed as a replacement stock for Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 and M2 shotguns. It comes standard with the SHOCK FORCE recoil system, featuring a RED stiff spring for handling up to 3 1/2″ shells. The set includes flush and mid-height cheek pads, two premium sling mounts, mounting hardware, and shims for adjusting drop and cast.
These specifications directly impact the user experience. The SHOCK FORCE system reduces recoil, making shooting more comfortable. The cheek pads allow for a customized fit, improving sight alignment. The sling mounts add versatility for carrying the shotgun in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut excels in reducing felt recoil and improving shooting comfort. The SHOCK FORCE system effectively absorbs a significant portion of the recoil energy, allowing for faster follow-up shots and less fatigue. The customizable cheek pads ensure a proper cheek weld, promoting consistent accuracy.
The recoil reduction is exceptional, and the improved ergonomics contribute to enhanced handling. A potential area for improvement might be offering different spring rates for the SHOCK FORCE system to cater to a wider range of loads. Overall, the stock set meets and exceeds expectations for recoil management and shooting comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The walnut stock offers a classic, refined aesthetic that is a welcome departure from synthetic alternatives. The wood is beautifully finished and provides a comfortable, secure grip. The included cheek pads allow for a highly customizable fit.
The stock set is user-friendly and easy to install. The shims allow for further adjustments to drop and cast, ensuring a personalized fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The walnut stock is durable and well-suited for field use. The SHOCK FORCE recoil system is designed for long-term reliability.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling of the wood. The recoil system itself should require minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut comes with flush and mid-height cheek pads, two premium sling swivels, mounting hardware and shims. Beyond the included cheek pads and shims, customization options are limited to sling choices that fit the included sling swivels. The stock is compatible with any aftermarket sling designed for standard sling swivel mounts.
Pros and Cons of SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut
Pros
- Significant recoil reduction: The SHOCK FORCE system dramatically reduces felt recoil, allowing for longer shooting sessions with less fatigue.
- Customizable fit: Included cheek pads and shims allow for a personalized fit, improving comfort and accuracy.
- Classic aesthetics: The walnut stock offers a refined, traditional look that enhances the appearance of the Benelli shotgun.
- Easy installation: The stock set is straightforward to install, requiring minimal tools or gunsmithing skills.
- Enhanced handling: The improved ergonomics contribute to better control and faster follow-up shots.
Cons
- The RED spring may be too stiff for very light loads: Some users may find the standard spring rate too stiff for lighter target loads.
- Limited customization beyond cheek pads and shims: Apart from the included adjustments, further customization options are limited.
Who Should Buy SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut?
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut is perfect for hunters, sporting clays shooters, and anyone who wants to reduce recoil and improve the shooting experience with their Benelli SBE 3 or M2 shotgun. Those who value classic aesthetics and a personalized fit will also appreciate this stock set.
This product might not be ideal for those who primarily shoot very light target loads. Also, it may not appeal to those seeking purely tactical or highly modular stock options.
A quality gun cleaning kit and a wood-specific gun oil are must-have accessories to maintain the stock’s finish and performance.
Conclusion on SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut is a worthwhile upgrade for Benelli shotgun owners seeking recoil reduction and a touch of classic style. The SHOCK FORCE system delivers on its promise of reduced felt recoil, while the walnut stock adds a touch of elegance.
At $363.99, the price is justified by the significant improvement in shooting comfort and the quality of the materials and construction. I wholeheartedly recommend the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Walnut to anyone looking to enhance their Benelli shooting experience. Upgrade your Benelli today and experience the difference!