Can anyone explain the differences between the older Benelli M2, M3, M4 etc ...

quote:

Originally posted by T.Webb:
Can anyone explain the differences between the older Benelli M2, M3, M4 etc ...

M2 = recoil/inertia-operated semiauto
M3 = recoil/inertia-operated semiauto with additional pump-action capability
M4 = gas-operated semiauto

The M2 is the dominant shotgun in some of the action shooting sports like 3-gun.


Very reliable. Stands up to tremendously high round counts very well. Light weight. Simple in a good way.


I used to use gas operated shotguns. Now that I went inertia I don't think I will ever go back.

There's also the M1, which is the older version of the M2.

And the SuperBlackEagle, which is the magnum hunting shotgun, also recoil operated semi.

The M2 is the only one you mentioned that's a widespread civilian model. Has been available in several hunting, sporting, tactical varieties over the years it was offered. Probably has the most variety, aftermarket parts support, factory parts support, etc.

The M3 doesn't have many variants. Was marketed at police by being able to also manually cycle low powered less-lethal loads that give semis trouble. Not as common, or as much aftermarket support for it as other models.

M4 has the added collapsible stock capability from not needing the stock for the interia recoil system. Was a military contract gun originally, thus the deviation from Benelli's interia system.

Side note:
The gas operating system from the M4 is also shared with the R1 hunting rifle available in 30.06, 308, 300 WM, and 338 WM. The practical result is a very effective light weight (7.2 lbs) low recoil semi automatic rifle that does not run a foul with any state gun laws.

Mine is very reliable, rugged, and reasonably accurate (1.25-1.5 groups at 100), but is extremely ammo sensitive requiring 165 gr Federal to obtain that level of accuracy. The rifle with 180 gr Winchester exhibited 6" plus size groups. Various 150 gr loadings ranged from 2" to 3" group sizes.

I have always wanted an M2

quote:

Originally posted by T.Webb:
Can anyone explain the differences between the older Benelli M2, M3, M4 etc ...

And $500 to $1000

Nothing to really add other than the M4 certainly has a “cool” factor. I opted for the M2, as little as a shoot it, the M4 wasn’t worth the entrance fee. My M2 has been flawless and I pity the fool who would be on the other end.

quote:

Originally posted by MattW:
Nothing to really add other than the M4 certainly has a “cool” factor. I opted for the M2, as little as a shoot it, the M4 wasn’t worth the entrance fee. My M2 has been flawless and I pity the fool who would be on the other end.

^^^^^What he said!

I agree with the sentiment above.

My M2 Tactical is gang busters. Its so fast, 100% reliable, so much lead down range so quickly. I too, pity the fool(s), on the other end.

quote:

Originally posted by T.Webb:
Can anyone explain the differences between the older Benelli M2, M3, M4 etc ...

Some M2 shotgun action.

https://youtu.be/z2FttseY-Co

My M2 is one gun that has been a joy to own and use, and I have not regretted buying it for one second.



My second one I don't regret either, other than paying way too much money.

My third one I regret because it's exactly like my second one and I really don't need it. lol

My 1988 prooduction M1 is the balls.

ive got a M4S90 11707 and an M1S90. love them both but the M4 is a joy to shoot.