The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve wrestled with the harsh recoil of my Benelli SBE 3 during waterfowl season. The factory stock was functional, but after a long day of shooting 3 1/2″ shells, my shoulder felt like it had gone ten rounds with a heavyweight. When I stumbled upon the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry, promising a significant reduction in recoil, I knew I had to give it a shot.
I’ve hunted waterfowl extensively, and felt recoil truly hinders performance. A solution that allows for quicker follow-up shots and reduces fatigue sounded ideal.
Opening the box, I was immediately struck by the sleek, modern appearance of the matte carbon fiber. The stock felt lightweight yet solid, a testament to its construction. Compared to the factory stock, which felt somewhat utilitarian, the SMX-12 exuded quality and a premium feel. I also considered the Mesa Tactical Urbino stock, and the Magpul SGA stock, but the promise of recoil reduction through the SHOCK FORCE system and the aesthetic appeal of the carbon fiber ultimately swayed me. I was excited to see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry was at a sporting clays range, followed by a duck hunting trip in flooded timber. I wanted to see how it performed with both target loads and heavy hunting loads. The range allowed me to focus on the feel of the recoil system, while the hunt gave me a chance to evaluate it in a real-world scenario.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The SHOCK FORCE recoil system did an excellent job of absorbing the impact of each shot. Recoil felt more like a gentle push than a sharp jolt. I was able to maintain my sight picture more easily and get back on target faster for follow-up shots. Even after a few rounds of skeet, I experienced no should fatigue. There was a slight learning curve adjusting to the feel of the SHOCK FORCE recoil system, but it was intuitive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full waterfowl season, the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry continues to impress. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through my Benelli with this stock, and it still looks and performs like new. The matte carbon fiber finish has proven to be incredibly durable, resisting scratches and wear from brush and weather.
Cleaning is a breeze. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove mud, grime, and powder residue. Compared to previous experiences with other aftermarket stocks, the SMX-12 has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability. The SHOCK FORCE recoil system continues to function flawlessly.
Breaking Down the Features of SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry
Specifications
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry is a premium aftermarket stock designed specifically for the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 and M2 shotguns. It features a SHOCK FORCE recoil system, designed to dramatically reduce felt recoil. The stock set includes the stock itself, the SHOCK FORCE recoil pad, a flush mount cheek pad, a mid cheek pad, two premium sling swivels, mounting hardware, and shims for adjusting length of pull and drop/cast. The use of matte carbon fiber contributes to both its lightweight and durable construction.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the shooter’s comfort, control, and overall shooting experience. The SHOCK FORCE recoil system makes shooting magnum loads more manageable, reducing fatigue and improving accuracy. The adjustable cheek pads allow for a customized fit, ensuring proper eye alignment with optics or the shotgun’s bead. The inclusion of premium sling swivels provides convenient attachment points for carrying the shotgun in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry is to reduce felt recoil and improve the shooter’s control and comfort. It performs this task exceptionally well. The SHOCK FORCE recoil system effectively absorbs a significant portion of the recoil energy, making shooting even heavy loads much more comfortable. This allows for faster follow-up shots and reduces fatigue during long days in the field.
The stock is easy to install and adjust, and the included cheek pads allow for a customized fit. A potential weakness is that the RED stiff spring included standard is geared towards heavier loads. Lighter target loads might not provide enough force to fully engage the SHOCK FORCE recoil system. However, for its intended purpose – managing the recoil of heavy hunting loads – it meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry features a sleek, modern design that enhances the aesthetics of the Benelli shotgun. The matte carbon fiber finish is both attractive and durable. The stock feels solid and well-built, and the included cheek pads provide a comfortable and secure cheek weld.
The stock is designed to be user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, and the adjustable cheek pads and shims allow for a customized fit. The SHOCK FORCE recoil system is intuitive and requires no special adjustments or maintenance. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry is built to last. The matte carbon fiber construction is incredibly durable, resisting scratches, wear, and the elements. The SHOCK FORCE recoil system is also designed for long-term reliability.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep the stock clean and functioning properly. The SHOCK FORCE recoil system does not require any special lubrication or maintenance. With proper care, this stock should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry comes with a flush mount cheek pad and a mid cheek pad, allowing the shooter to customize the height of the cheek weld. It also includes two premium sling swivels for attaching a sling. The stock also utilizes shims to adjust the drop and cast, making it fit the user perfectly.
While the stock is not compatible with all aftermarket accessories, it is designed to be compatible with standard Benelli shotgun accessories, such as aftermarket recoil pads and sling mounts. The user can easily swap out the included recoil pad for a softer or thicker pad if desired.
Pros and Cons of SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry
Pros
- Significant recoil reduction: The SHOCK FORCE recoil system noticeably reduces felt recoil, allowing for more comfortable shooting, especially with heavy loads.
- Durable construction: The matte carbon fiber finish is both attractive and incredibly durable, resisting scratches, wear, and the elements.
- Customizable fit: The included cheek pads and shims allow for a customized fit, ensuring proper eye alignment and comfortable shooting.
- Easy to install and maintain: The stock is easy to install, and maintenance is a breeze with a simple wipe down.
- Enhanced aesthetics: The sleek, modern design of the carbon fiber stock enhances the overall look of the Benelli shotgun.
Cons
- The RED stiff spring may not be ideal for lighter target loads; users might consider acquiring softer springs.
- Price: At $363.99, it’s an investment, but worthwhile for serious shooters valuing recoil reduction and durability.
Who Should Buy SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry?
This stock set is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently shoot heavy 3″ or 3 1/2″ shells. It’s also ideal for sporting clays shooters who want to reduce recoil and improve their performance. Anyone who owns a Benelli SBE 3 or M2 and is looking for a premium aftermarket stock that offers significant recoil reduction, enhanced durability, and a customized fit will benefit from the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry.
Those who primarily shoot light target loads or who are on a tight budget might want to consider other options. A must-have modification would be experimenting with different spring weights to optimize the SHOCK FORCE recoil system for specific loads.
Conclusion on SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry
The SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry is a premium aftermarket stock that delivers on its promise of significant recoil reduction, durable construction, and a customized fit. While the price may be a barrier for some, the benefits it offers are well worth the investment for serious shooters.
The SHOCK FORCE recoil system is a game-changer, making shooting heavy loads much more comfortable and manageable. The matte carbon fiber finish is both attractive and durable, and the included cheek pads and shims allow for a perfect fit. I wholeheartedly recommend the SMX-12 Benelli SBE 3 / M2 Stock Set – Matte Carbon Fiber – No Concealed Carry to anyone looking to upgrade their Benelli shotgun and improve their shooting experience. Upgrade your Benelli today and experience the difference!