I posted this on the Firearms Review Forum without much success, so I'm gonna try it in this forum:

I've been looking around for a new semi-auto 12 gauge, and the franchi I-12 caught my eye. It looks liek a good all around gun... it says it can put up with the abuse of ducky weather (howling rain, mud, blowing sleet, etc...) because of the Inertia Driven system, and it has the recoil pad which reduces felt recoilsignificantly. Also, it has the vario max system so it can handle dove loads to 3.5 inch turkey loads. But, I'm always skeptical about everything. Those of you who have had experience with this gun. I'd greatly appreciate all of the pros and cons. Let me know about any other suggestions of other guns you might have.

Thanks,

Chris

I think the Franchi is very similar to the Stoeger, and the Stoeger is very nice, and works flawlessly, and never jams. They both have the Inertia Operating System. I dont know lots about Franchi, but I love the Stoeger 2000. The stoeger wont take 3.5 inch shells though, does the Franchi?

I had the Franchi 912 Variomax and loved it.. I was under the impression that the I-12 only shot 3" shells.. Because if it shot 3.5" there would be no need for the SBE..

The I-12 does take 3.5's... you just have to tune it. Like you said, it does have the SBE is kind of pointless. I've also taken a look at that 2000, and likewise,my buddies have good things to say about it.