The Benelli Lupo is an accurate, ergonomic, and lightweight rifle that behaves similarly to a shotgun. It’s easy to achieve consistent sub-MOA three-shot groups, with my best group being just .452” from 100 meters. The trigger, which is adjustable from 2.2 lbs up to 4.4 lbs, helps the shooter achieve maximum accuracy, and the rifle comes drilled and tapped with three sets of holes for mounting a variety of optic bases. It even ships with two short Picatinny rails, pre-installed for user convenience.

The Lupo is built with a variety of different materials. The action is made of steel, while the synthetic stock is made with a blend of aluminum and composite. The stock is also adjustable and made with two pieces, a buttstock attached right behind the trigger guard and a fore-end that joins to the front metalwork. The upper receiver is heat-treated, and the free-floating barrel features a 1:11 RH twist. Benelli has also included the crushable and interchangeable CombTech cheek pad, which is available in two sizes and helps the user achieve a natural sight alignment. If you want to add a sling, you’re in luck. There are three different attachment points on the stock.

Marketed as “Air Touch,” the Lupo’s grip and fore-end are textured with square divots. It’s comfortable to hold, and the pattern blends ergonomic contact points with both the lines and the contours of the stock. The texture extends to surround the front strap of the handle, leaving the tang smooth. The overall handling experience really emphasizes ergonomics, making for a very comfortable shooting experience.

The Lupo includes a detachable magazine well, which is perfectly aligned with the chamber for a reduced risk of damage to the bullet when the bolt is pushed forward. The double-stack magazine holds 5+1 rounds, and the ergonomic release lever really complements the shape of the floor plate for maximum comfort.

The Lupo’s Perfect Shot adjustable trigger is attached to the underside of the action. It sits high on the unique, steeply-angled trigger guard to minimize strain on the wrist and accepts thick-gloved fingers. The trigger shoots very well, with minimal overtravel. The Progressive Comfort recoil-reduction system uses interlocking buffers, which absorb any rearward thrust and creates a linear-feeling recoil signature.

Overall, the Lupo measures approximately 45” with the barrel accounting for 24” of that length. It’s relatively lightweight, weighing just 7 lbs 4 oz. New models retail for an MSRP of $1,700.

While a rifle isn’t as necessary as a concealed carry handgun, many collectors will love the Lupo. It’s best suited for hunting purposes, but can still be a great self-defense weapon. It shoulders quickly and naturally, and it can hold its own with other rifles in its class.

Richard Douglas writes on firearms, defense, and security issues. He is the founder and editor of Scopes Field, and a columnist at The National Interest, 1945, Daily Caller, and other publications.

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