Unleash your inner marksman with the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR, a powerful and precise shotgun that offers an exceptional shooting experience. Whether you're an avid hunter or a competitive shooter, this firearm delivers performance and versatility, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. In this blog post, we'll delve into the features, benefits, and various applications of the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR, providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Understanding the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR

The 20 Gauge Long Beard XR is a semi-automatic shotgun manufactured by Benelli, a renowned Italian firearms company known for its innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. This shotgun is part of the Long Beard series, specifically tailored for turkey hunting and close-range shooting. With its reliable performance and user-friendly features, it has gained popularity among hunters and sportsmen alike.
Key Features and Specifications

- Gauge: 20 Gauge
- Action: Semi-Automatic
- Barrel Length: 26 inches
- Overall Length: Approximately 47 inches
- Weight: Around 7 pounds
- Capacity: 4+1 rounds
- Chokes: Interchangeable (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full)
- Sights: Fiber-optic front sight
The 20 Gauge Long Beard XR boasts a sleek and ergonomic design, ensuring comfortable handling and easy maneuverability. Its semi-automatic action provides smooth and reliable cycling, allowing for quick follow-up shots. The adjustable stock and recoil pad ensure a customizable fit, accommodating shooters of different sizes and preferences.
Performance and Shooting Experience

This shotgun delivers exceptional performance, thanks to its advanced inertia-driven system. The inertia system offers reliable priming and firing, ensuring consistent and accurate shots. The 26-inch barrel, combined with the included choke tubes, provides versatility in various shooting scenarios. Whether you're targeting turkeys at close range or engaging in clay pigeon shooting, the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR delivers precision and power.
Applications and Benefits

Turkey Hunting
The 20 Gauge Long Beard XR is specifically designed for turkey hunting, offering an effective solution for taking down these elusive birds. The long barrel and improved cylinder choke provide the necessary power and pattern control for accurate shots at close range. The fiber-optic front sight aids in quick target acquisition, ensuring you can react swiftly to a turkey's sudden movement.
Versatility and Clay Shooting
Despite its name, the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR is not limited to turkey hunting. Its versatility makes it suitable for various shooting disciplines. With the included choke tubes, you can easily adjust the shot pattern to suit different targets. Whether you're practicing on a clay pigeon range or engaging in sporting clays, this shotgun delivers consistent performance and reliable cycling.
Reliability and Durability
Benelli is known for its robust and reliable firearms, and the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR is no exception. Its inertia-driven system ensures smooth operation and minimal maintenance. The durable construction, made from high-quality materials, withstands the rigors of hunting and shooting, making it a dependable choice for long-term use.
Accessories and Customization

The 20 Gauge Long Beard XR offers several accessory options to enhance your shooting experience. Benelli provides a range of choke tubes, including improved cylinder, modified, and full chokes, allowing you to tailor the shotgun to different shooting scenarios. Additionally, the adjustable stock and recoil pad provide customization options for a perfect fit.
Safety and Handling

Safety is a top priority when handling firearms. The 20 Gauge Long Beard XR incorporates several safety features to ensure responsible and secure use. It features a manual safety located at the tang, allowing you to quickly and easily engage or disengage the firearm. Additionally, the trigger guard provides added protection, preventing accidental discharge.
Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your 20 Gauge Long Beard XR in optimal condition. Regular cleaning and lubrication are necessary to ensure smooth operation and prolong the life of your firearm. Benelli provides detailed instructions and recommendations for maintenance, ensuring you can keep your shotgun in pristine condition.
Conclusion

The 20 Gauge Long Beard XR is a versatile and reliable shotgun, offering exceptional performance for turkey hunting and various shooting disciplines. With its advanced inertia-driven system, ergonomic design, and customizable features, it provides an enjoyable and precise shooting experience. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a recreational shooter, the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR is a worthwhile addition to your collection, delivering power, accuracy, and reliability.
What is the recommended ammunition for the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR?
+The 20 Gauge Long Beard XR is designed to work best with 3-inch magnum turkey loads. These loads provide the necessary power and shot pattern for effective turkey hunting. However, it’s important to note that you can use standard 20-gauge shells as well, although they may not offer the same performance as the magnum loads.
Can I use the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR for other types of hunting?
+While the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR is specifically designed for turkey hunting, its versatility allows it to be used for other types of hunting as well. With the right choke tubes and ammunition, you can adapt it for hunting small game, such as squirrels or rabbits. However, it’s important to ensure that you comply with local hunting regulations and use appropriate ammunition for the targeted game.
Is the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR suitable for left-handed shooters?
+Yes, the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR is ambidextrous, making it suitable for both left-handed and right-handed shooters. The manual safety and bolt release are located on both sides of the firearm, ensuring easy access and operation regardless of your shooting preference.
How often should I clean and maintain my 20 Gauge Long Beard XR?
+Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your 20 Gauge Long Beard XR in optimal condition. It is recommended to clean and lubricate your firearm after every use, especially if it has been exposed to harsh conditions or heavy shooting. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines and using the appropriate cleaning kit will ensure the longevity and reliability of your shotgun.
Can I customize the stock and recoil pad of the 20 Gauge Long Beard XR?
+Absolutely! The 20 Gauge Long Beard XR features an adjustable stock and recoil pad, allowing you to customize the fit and recoil management to your preferences. You can adjust the length of pull and the comb height to achieve the perfect fit for your shooting style and comfort. This customization ensures a more accurate and enjoyable shooting experience.