Let’s Dive into EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount
The EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount is a Picatinny rail designed to enhance the versatility of Benelli Super Nova and standard Benelli pump shotguns. Evolution Gun Works (EGW), a well-known manufacturer of quality firearm accessories, produces this mount. It promises to provide a stable platform for mounting various optics, allowing shotgun owners to adapt their firearm for different shooting scenarios.
My journey to finding this mount started with a persistent need to improve the accuracy of my Benelli Super Nova for deer hunting in thick brush. Iron sights were proving inadequate, particularly in low-light conditions. I needed a reliable way to attach a red dot sight for faster target acquisition and increased confidence.
Unboxing the EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount revealed a well-machined piece of aluminum. The matte black anodized finish looked durable and blended seamlessly with the shotgun’s aesthetics. It felt lightweight, which was a bonus, as I didn’t want to add unnecessary bulk to the firearm.
I considered other options, including saddle-style mounts, but I chose the EGW mount because of its low profile and direct attachment to the receiver. This design, I hoped, would offer a more secure and stable platform than alternatives that clamp onto the barrel or trigger assembly. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. Would it truly hold zero under the recoil of heavy 12-gauge loads? Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount at my local shooting range, under fairly pleasant weather conditions. I mounted a Vortex red dot sight onto the rail and proceeded to pattern my shotgun at various distances using both birdshot and buckshot loads. Installation was straightforward, though as one user mentioned, ensuring all screws are started before tightening is crucial to avoid cross-threading.
The mount performed admirably during the first session. It held the red dot securely and didn’t show any signs of loosening, even after firing several rounds of 3″ magnum shells. The increased sightline height, as noted by another reviewer, was noticeable but didn’t significantly impact my ability to acquire targets quickly. Adjusting my cheek weld helped to compensate for the slight height difference.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a dove hunting trip in dusty conditions and a few rainy range days, the EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the rail itself. The anodized finish has held up well against scratches and abrasions.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, universal-fit rails, the EGW mount has been a significant improvement in terms of stability and reliability. The rock-solid mounting has eliminated the need for constant re-tightening and zeroing, offering peace of mind when it matters most.
Breaking Down the Features of EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount
Specifications
- Fits Guns: Benelli SuperNova Shotguns, Benelli Pump Shotguns. The mount is specifically designed for these models, ensuring a precise fit.
- Accepts Scope Rings: Accepts Picatinny scope rings and Weaver scope rings. This provides flexibility in choosing your preferred mounting system.
- Material: Made of 6061 T6 aircraft aluminum. The high-grade aluminum ensures strength and light weight.
- Finish: Anodized matte black finish. This provides corrosion resistance and a low-glare appearance.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the mount’s ability to withstand recoil, maintain zero, and integrate seamlessly with the shotgun. The use of aircraft aluminum ensures that the mount is both strong and lightweight, while the anodized finish protects against the elements. The compatibility with both Picatinny and Weaver rings opens up a wide range of optic choices.
Performance & Functionality
The EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount excels in providing a stable and reliable platform for optics. Accuracy is noticeably improved with the addition of a red dot or scope. The mount’s solid construction minimizes movement and ensures that the optic holds zero, even under heavy recoil.
The mount’s primary strength lies in its rock-solid attachment and compatibility with a wide range of optics. One potential weakness is the slightly raised sightline, which might require some adjustment for users accustomed to shooting with iron sights. However, this is a common trade-off when adding any type of optic mount to a shotgun. Overall, the mount meets and exceeds expectations for a product in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount features a low-profile design that doesn’t significantly alter the overall balance or handling of the shotgun. The build quality is excellent, with clean machining and a durable finish. At a lightweight, it doesn’t add noticeable heft to the firearm.
The mount is generally user-friendly, but some may find the raised sightline takes some getting used to. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing skills (assuming the receiver is already drilled and tapped). The smooth edges and matte finish prevent snagging and ensure a comfortable shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and robust construction. The anodized aluminum is resistant to corrosion, scratches, and other forms of wear and tear. With proper care, the mount should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a solvent or mild detergent is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. Periodic checks to ensure the mounting screws are properly tightened will help maintain the mount’s stability and prevent any issues.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it opens up a world of customization options by allowing the user to mount a wide variety of optics, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and scopes. The Picatinny rail is compatible with most standard Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, offering a vast selection of mounting options.
The mount is also compatible with various aftermarket accessories such as cheek risers, which can help to improve the shooter’s cheek weld and eye alignment with the optic. While the EGW mount is designed specifically for Benelli Super Nova and standard pump shotguns, it may be adaptable to other shotgun models with minor modifications.
Pros and Cons of EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount
Pros
- Very Sturdy: Provides a rock-solid mounting platform for optics, ensuring reliable performance even under heavy recoil.
- Easy to Install: Straightforward installation process, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing skills (if receiver is already tapped).
- Accepts Picatinny & Weaver Rings: Compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver scope rings, offering a wide range of optic choices.
- Durable Construction: Made from 6061 T6 aircraft aluminum with an anodized finish, ensuring long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance.
- Great Price: Offers excellent value for the money compared to other shotgun scope mounts on the market.
Cons
- Higher Sightline: Raises the sightline, which may require some adjustment for users accustomed to shooting with iron sights.
- Potential Fit Issues: Some users have reported minor fit issues, particularly on Benelli Nova models that are not already drilled and tapped.
Who Should Buy EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount?
The EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount is perfect for hunters who want to improve their accuracy and target acquisition speed, especially in low-light conditions. It is also ideal for tactical shooters who need a reliable platform for mounting red dot sights or other optics on their Benelli shotgun. Home defense enthusiasts who want to enhance the versatility of their shotgun will also find this mount to be a valuable addition.
Individuals who primarily shoot clay targets or prefer the simplicity of iron sights might not find this product necessary. Those who are unwilling to drill and tap their shotgun receiver (if it’s not already done) should also avoid this product unless they are willing to seek professional gunsmithing services. A must-have accessory for this mount is a quality optic, such as a red dot sight or low-power scope, along with appropriate scope rings.
Conclusion on EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount
The EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount is a well-designed and affordable accessory that significantly enhances the versatility of Benelli Super Nova and standard pump shotguns. Its rock-solid construction, ease of installation, and compatibility with a wide range of optics make it an excellent choice for hunters, tactical shooters, and home defense enthusiasts.
The price is certainly justified by the quality and performance of this mount. It represents a significant upgrade over cheaper, universal-fit options. I would personally recommend the EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount to anyone looking to improve the accuracy and adaptability of their Benelli shotgun.
If you’re tired of struggling with iron sights and want to experience the benefits of modern optics, don’t hesitate – give the EGW Benelli Super Nova Pump Shotgun Scope Mount a try! You won’t be disappointed.