So Fine: Franchi Affinity 3 Fowling Shotguns

I must confess a certain affinity for a well-balanced waterfowler…

For those of us who grew up wingshooting with double-barrels, semi-auto shotguns can be something of an acquired taste. Franchi, which is a division of Beretta, has its roots deeply entwined in the ancient art of waterfowling … after all, Beretta’s been doing it for 500 years. That’s why even dedicated wood-furniture fanatics like yours truly couldn’t pass up a shot (so to speak) at the original Franchi Affinity when it was released. What we felt was beautiful handling, exquisite accuracy and reliability we didn’t know we could expect from an inertia gun. Now it’s 2022 and Franchi is introducing the Affinity 3 Cerakote. Four exciting new models will make up the Affinity 3 Cerakote line for 2022.

First presented in the Affinity 3.5 waterfowl shotguns, the combination Cerakote and camo pattern now extends to the 3-inch-chambered Affinity platform. Two color options are available across two barrel length and gauge offerings: Realtree® Max-5™ with Midnight Bronze Cerakote and Mossy Oak® Bottomland™ with Patriot Brown Cerakote.

• (#41408) 12-gauge 3-inch, 28-inch barrel; Realtree® Max-5™ with Midnight Bronze Cerakote; MSRP $1099

• (#41410) 12-gauge 3-inch, 26-inch barrel; Mossy Oak® Bottomland™ with Patriot Brown Cerakote; MSRP $1099

• (#41409) 20-gauge 3-inch, 26-inch barrel; Realtree® Max-5™ with Midnight Bronze Cerakote; MSRP $1099

• (#41411) 20-gauge 3-inch, 26-inch barrel; Mossy Oak® Bottomland™ with Patriot Brown Cerakote; MSRP $1099

The new Affinity 3 Cerakote models represent a balanced merging of form and function for waterfowlers seeking a fast-handling, lightweight, easy-swinging semi-auto for 2 ¾- and 3-inch loads. The dark hue of the Midnight Bronze Cerakote delivers a subtle contrast with the marsh-inspired Realtree® Max-5™ to ensure excellent concealment in grass environments. Similarly, the lighter shade of the Patriot Brown Cerakote skillfully blends with the Mossy Oak® Bottomland™ for the perfect color match in flooded timber. The Cerakote finishes provide protection in harsh weather regardless of the set.

As with all Affinity shotguns, the new Affinity 3 Cerakote models come with a full menu of performance-minded technology and features for all-day success in waterfowl country. These models start with the renowned Inertia Driven system and its clean, reliable operation that dependably cycles regardless of the shot load. For shooting comfort and an ergonomic fit, Affinity 3 Cerakote shotguns employ Franchi’s Evolved Ergonom-X technology and TSA Recoil Pad along with the Omni Stock Adjustable Fit system for a custom fit and feel. Each gun includes IC, M, and F choke tubes and a wrench. FranchiUSA.com

Specifications: 

·Magazine Capacity: 4+1

·Chokes: IC, M, F, and wrench

·Sights: Red fiber-optic front bar

·Length-of-Pull: 14-3/8″

·Drop at Heel: Adjustable 2- to 2-1/2″

·Drop at Comb: 1-1/2″

·Minimum Recommended Load: 3-dram, 1-1/8 ounce; 20-Gauge: 7/8-ounce, 1200 FPS.

For more information on the new Affinity 3 Cerakote shotguns by Franchi, visit FranchiUSA.com.