Which shotgun kicks less: Beretta or Benelli?

Beretta. Because Beretta utilizes a gas-operated system, it bleeds off energy to cycle the action, significantly reducing the felt recoil on the shooter's shoulder compared to Benelli's inertia system.

What kind of shotguns do Argentina hunting lodges rent?

Premium lodges almost exclusively rent 20-gauge semi-automatics from Beretta (like the A400) and Benelli (like the Montefeltro or M2), as they are the only platforms capable of surviving the extreme daily volume.

Should I use an over-and-under shotgun in Argentina?

It is highly discouraged for dove hunting. Fixed-breech guns like over-and-unders transfer 100% of the recoil to the shooter, which will quickly cause severe bruising during a 1,000-round day.

Beretta vs Benelli: The Ultimate High-Volume Shotguns in Argentina

Senior Field Editor

Roxy Gonzalez

Published: June 11, 2026

In the high-volume dove roosts of Argentina, the rental armory debate is entirely monopolized by two Italian titans: Beretta's gas-operated semi-automatics and Benelli's inertia-driven systems. Choosing the right platform dictates not only your mechanical reliability but the physical survival of your shoulder during a 2,000-round day.

Gas Operation vs. Inertia Systems

Premium estancias stock their armories based on two competing philosophies: recoil mitigation and mechanical simplicity. The Beretta (typically the A400 or Urika 391 series) utilizes a gas-operated system. It bleeds off expanding gases from the fired shell to cycle the action, effectively dampening the felt recoil. This makes the Beretta the undisputed king of physical comfort. Conversely, the Benelli (Montefeltro or M2) relies on an inertia-driven system. It is mechanically simpler and burns significantly cleaner, meaning it rarely jams even when exposed to massive amounts of gunpowder residue and agricultural dust, but it transfers noticeably more recoil to the shooter.

FeatureBeretta (Gas-Operated)Benelli (Inertia-Driven)Primary AdvantageUnmatched recoil reduction.Unmatched mechanical reliability; runs clean.Primary DrawbackFouls faster; requires strict daily cleaning.Noticeably sharper recoil on the shoulder.Best Suited ForEndurance shooters; recoil-sensitive hunters.Rugged, dusty environments; duck blinds.Standard Gauge20-Gauge (Industry Standard)20-Gauge (Industry Standard)

The Armory Reality

When you rent a gun at a premium Córdoba or Entre Ríos lodge, you will likely be handed a Beretta 20-gauge. Outfitters overwhelmingly favor gas guns for dove hunting because protecting the client's shoulder ensures they will continue to buy and shoot ammunition for four straight days. The lodge solves the Beretta's "dirty" gas system by employing full-time armorers who break down and scrub every gun every night. If you transition to a duck hunt in the Santa Fe delta, however, guides often issue Benellis, as their inertia systems are virtually impervious to freezing river mud.

Tactical Field Note: If you are given a Benelli for a high-volume dove hunt, you must over-compensate for the recoil. Ensure you are wearing a premium gel recoil pad (like a PAST shield) and strictly hold a tight shoulder pocket mount. A loose mount with an inertia gun will result in a severely bruised cheek and shoulder by noon.

Internal Connections

See our master gear guide in Best Shotguns for Dove Hunting in Argentina.
Learn how to survive the volume via How to Manage Shotgun Recoil During High-Volume Hunts.
Understand the lodge maintenance protocol in Shotgun Maintenance for High-Volume Dove Hunting.

Legal & Regulatory Note Hunting regulations in Argentina are established and enforced at the provincial level and may change by season, species, area, quota, weather conditions, land access, and administrative resolution. Any reference to hunting availability, seasons, bag limits, pest-control species, firearms, ammunition, transportation, or export of birds should be understood as general destination information only. Hunters must always confirm current provincial regulations, licenses, permits, firearm requirements, landowner authorization, outfitter compliance, and transport/export restrictions before booking or participating in any hunt.