Shotgun Life | The Best in Wing and Clays Shooting

#franchishotguns

The Overlooked Franchi 48AL Semi-Auto

Sunday, October 26, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #franchi48al, #franchisemiautoshotguns, #franchishotguns

Early vintage Franchi shotguns, particularly the Franchi 48AL, are renowned for being lightweight, reliable long-recoil operated semi-automatic shotguns. These models are known for their excellent handling, making them popular for hunting, and early versions had steel receivers before the lighter aluminum receiver of later models was introduced. Other notable early models include the Franchi 48AL which features a 3-inch magnum chamber and steel receiver, and was likely produced in the late 1960s and 1970s. 

Franchi

The Franchi 48AL Semi-Auto may not receive the same level of recognition as some of its more popular counterparts, but it certainly packs a punch when it comes to performance. This shotgun is lightweight, easy to handle, and delivers smooth, reliable shooting with its gas-operated system. Whether you’re out in the field hunting game or competing in a shooting competition, the Franchi 48AL will not disappoint.

The Versatility of the Franchi 48AL Shotgun

One of the standout features of the Franchi 48AL is its versatility. With a range of barrel lengths and choke options available, this shotgun can be customized to suit your specific needs and preferences. Additionally, the ability to effortlessly switch between different loads makes this shotgun suitable for a variety of shooting activities.

Franchi 1

Details about the Franchi 48AL
  • Action: Long recoil-operated semi-automatic.
  • Receiver: Early versions featured a steel receiver, with a switch to a high-strength aluminum receiver later on.
  • Chambering: Primarily for 2 ¾ inch shells, though some 3-inch magnum versions were made.
  • Weight: Known as one of the lightest automatic shotguns, making it ideal for hunting where a gun needs to be carried frequently.
  • Features: Lacks a tang on the stock and uses a two-pin takedown system for the trigger group.
  • Value: Considered an underappreciated and reliable shotgun that can often be found at affordable prices on the used market. 
More about the Franchi 48AL
  • Action: Long recoil-operated semi-automatic.
  • Receiver: Steel receiver.
  • Chambering: 3-inch magnum chamber.
  • Barrel: Typically featured a 32-inch fixed full choke barrel, often considered “cheater chokes” for their tightness and suitability for trap shooting.
  • Production: Likely manufactured from the late 1960s to the late 1970s. 
Franchi 2
What to look for when buying
  • Condition: As with any vintage firearm, inspect for rust, wear, and cracks in the stock, which are common on older models.
  • Barrel: Check for a tight, secure barrel connection and that the bore is clear.
  • Choke: Be aware of fixed choke versions, which may be too restrictive for some uses.
  • Engraving: Some models may have intricate floral engravings, adding to their aesthetic appeal. 

Why the Franchi 48AL Should Be Your Next Shotgun Purchase

The Franchi 48AL Semi-Auto may be an overlooked gem in the world of shotguns, but it certainly deserves more attention for its exceptional performance, versatility, and timeless design. Whether you’re a hunter, a competitive shooter, or simply a firearms enthusiast, the Franchi 48AL is a shotgun that should not be underestimated.

# # #

Franchi Introduces the Next-Generation Affinity 3 and 3.5 Shotguns

Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #franchiaffinity, #franchishotguns
Franchi Affinity

January 2025, Accokeek, MD – Since its introduction, Franchi’s Affinity 3 and Affinity 3.5 semi-auto shotguns have served as steady companions in duck blinds, upland fields, and competitive venues across the country and around the world. For 2025, Franchi proudly unveils the next generation of this sporting arm as the brand’s first all-new semi-auto platform in over a decade.

The new-generation Affinity 3 and 3.5 semi-auto Inertia Driven® shotguns are constructed around a fresh stock design that not only highlights the brand’s Italian artistry DNA but also boosts ergonomics for faster, more positive handling in all shooting conditions. A thinner forend with increased checkering offers a better hold and snappier swings. This concept extends to the grip, where the checkering is distributed higher and farther back on the grip to enhance control.

Aesthetics have not been overlooked in the new stock design. Clean lines flow gracefully from the grip, across the receiver, and into the forend, creating a visual continuity that reflects the shotgun’s exquisite ergonomics and precision construction. This design is also supported by a new trigger guard that subtly blends with the overall profile.

This trigger guard is part of the new-generation Affinity’s functional upgrades. By expanding the guard to a more rectangular profile, Franchi designers created more room for the trigger finger — particularly when wearing gloves. The new Affinity also features an updated magazine cap, and the bolt release button is now oblong (versus circular) with raised edging for more positive manipulation.

Another significant improvement is the addition of a two-piece shell latch. By shifting to a two-piece construction, shooters can load the shotgun faster and with less effort than with a conventional one-piece shell latch design.

Lastly, the new Affinity semi-auto addresses ergonomics with a new adjustable recoil pad system that mitigates perceived recoil by up to 50%. The standard length of pull can be shortened, providing an optimal setup for most body types. This system delivers performance that hunters and competitors have come to expect.

The Affinity 3.5 comes in 12-gauge, 2 3/4-, 3-, and 3 1/2-inch chambering with a 28-inch barrel. Consumers can choose between three finishes: black synthetic/matte blue, Realtree® Max-7™, and Mossy Oak® Bottomland™.

The Affinity 3 is available in 28- and 26-inch barrel lengths chambered in 12-gauge 2 3/4- and 3-inch with three finish options: black synthetic/matte blue, Realtree® Max-7™, and Mossy Oak® Bottomland™. Hunters with a lean toward the traditional can opt for the new Affinity 3 with a 28-inch barrel. MSRP:  $1079 – $1379 depending on model.

To learn more about Franchi’s shotguns and bolt-action rifles, visit FranchiUSA.com.

Shotgun Life Newsletters

Join an elite group of readers who receive their FREE e-letter every week from Shotgun Life. These readers gain a competitive advantage from the valuable advice delivered directly to their inbox. You'll discover ways to improve your shooting, learn about the best new products and how to easily maintain your shotgun so it's always reliable. If you strive to be a better shooter, then our FREE e-letters are for you.