No matter how well it’s built, every machine has parts that eventually wear out. In the case of Benelli’s inertia-operated shotguns one such part is the recoil spring that cycles the bolt group. This spring is housed inside a tube hidden in the buttstock, and actuates the plunger at the heart of the semi. The repeated tension-release cycle eventually takes its toll, and can cause failures to feed over time.
Too strong a spring can also create issues for those throwing reduced-recoil loads, like skeet shooters or three-gun competitors, with the lower powder charges preventing the bolt from opening all the way. Luckily, the aftermarket offers both extra and reduced power replacement springs to make your Benelli function as it should. Here's how to change it out, step by step, and keep your shotgun action snappy.