As a seasoned hunter and outdoor writer with over a decade spent testing gear in the field, I’ve seen a lot of shotguns come and go. But the Benelli M2 20ga consistently stands out as a top performer. This isn’t just hype; it’s a shotgun built on a legacy of Italian engineering and refined for the demands of American hunters and shooters. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the Benelli M2, from detailed benelli m2 reviews to potential benelli m2 upgrades, and even how it stacks up against its bigger brother, the M4. We’ll also address common concerns, like the recent changes regarding Rem Oil discontinued and explore options for customization.
The Benelli M2 is an inertia-driven, semi-automatic shotgun renowned for its reliability and soft recoil. Unlike gas-operated systems, the M2 utilizes the momentum of the bolt carrier to cycle the action, resulting in a cleaner, more dependable operation, especially in adverse conditions. This is a key reason why it’s become a favorite among waterfowl hunters, upland bird enthusiasts, and competitive shooters. The benelli m2 shotgun review community consistently praises its ability to handle a wide range of ammunition without cycling issues.
The core of the M2’s appeal lies in its simplicity. Fewer parts mean fewer potential points of failure. This is crucial when you’re miles from civilization and relying on your firearm. Benelli has a long-standing reputation for quality, and the M2 embodies that commitment. You can find more information on Benelli’s history and manufacturing processes on their official website: Benelli USA.
One of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between the benelli m2 12ga and the benelli m2 20 gauge. The 12 gauge offers more stopping power and a wider selection of ammunition, making it ideal for larger game like turkeys or geese. However, the 20 gauge, with its lighter recoil, is a fantastic option for smaller-framed shooters, extended hunts, or those who prefer a more manageable firearm. The benelli m2 20 guage is particularly popular for upland bird hunting where lighter loads are often sufficient. I’ve personally found the 20 gauge to be incredibly effective on pheasant and quail, and the reduced recoil allows for faster follow-up shots.
Benelli offers the M2 in a variety of finishes and configurations to suit different hunting environments and personal preferences. The benelli m2 optifade timber is a popular choice for hunters who frequent wooded areas, while the benelli m2 optifade marsh provides excellent concealment in wetland environments. The benelli m2 bottomland finish offers a versatile option for a range of terrains. Beyond these camo patterns, you can also find the M2 in black synthetic and various Cerakote finishes.
The Optifade Timber camo pattern is designed to break up your silhouette in forested environments. It’s not just about aesthetics; the pattern is scientifically engineered to mimic the natural shadows and textures of the woods. I’ve used the benelli m2 20 gauge optifade timber extensively during turkey season, and I’ve been consistently impressed with its effectiveness. The pattern blends seamlessly with the surrounding foliage, making it harder for birds to detect your presence.
The benelli m2 24 inch barrel is the standard length and offers a good balance between maneuverability and range. However, Benelli also offers shorter barrel options, such as the 21-inch and 18.5-inch barrels, which are popular for hunting in dense cover or for tactical applications. Shorter barrels can make the shotgun easier to swing and maneuver in tight spaces, but they may also result in a slightly reduced effective range.
I’ve put the benelli m2 20 gauge through its paces in a variety of hunting scenarios, from chasing pheasant in the rolling hills of South Dakota to hunting ducks in the marshes of Louisiana. The shotgun consistently delivers smooth, reliable performance. The inertia-driven system cycles reliably with a wide range of ammunition, including light target loads and heavier hunting loads. Recoil is noticeably softer than with a comparable gas-operated shotgun, which is a significant advantage during long days in the field.
The M2’s trigger pull is crisp and clean, contributing to accurate shooting. The shotgun’s balance is also well-designed, making it comfortable to carry and swing. I’ve found it to be particularly effective when quickly transitioning between targets. For those interested in benelli 20 gauge waterfowl hunting, the M2 handles steel shot admirably, though proper cleaning is essential (more on that later).
While the Benelli M2 is excellent out of the box, there are several upgrades available to further enhance its performance and customize it to your specific needs. The best benelli m2 upgrades often focus on improving ergonomics, recoil management, and aesthetics. The benelli performance shop offers a wide range of aftermarket parts and services, including custom stocks, triggers, and Cerakote finishes.
Is the benelli performance shop worth it? For serious shooters and hunters who demand the best, absolutely. The quality of their parts and services is exceptional, and they can help you create a truly custom shotgun. However, be prepared to invest a significant amount of money.
Adding a benelli m2 rifled barrel transforms your shotgun into a capable slug gun, extending its versatility for hunting deer or other large game. Rifled barrels provide improved accuracy and range compared to smoothbore barrels when firing slugs.
The benelli m4 vs m2 debate is common among shotgun enthusiasts. The M4 is a more robust and versatile shotgun, designed for tactical applications and heavy use. It features a gas-operated system, which allows it to cycle reliably with a wider range of ammunition, including low-powered target loads. However, the M4 is also heavier and more expensive than the M2. The M2, with its inertia-driven system, is generally preferred for hunting and sport shooting where reliability and soft recoil are paramount.
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the long-term reliability of your Benelli M2. Regular cleaning and lubrication will prevent corrosion and keep the action functioning smoothly. Unfortunately, many shooters have noted the rem oil discontinued issue, forcing a search for suitable alternatives. High-quality gun oils like Break-Free CLP or Hoppe's No. 9 are excellent substitutes. Benelli recommends using their specific cleaning kit and lubricant for optimal performance. Refer to the owner’s manual for detailed cleaning instructions: Benelli Manuals.
I also recommend inspecting your shotgun regularly for signs of wear and tear. Pay close attention to the bolt, bolt carrier, and gas ports (if applicable). Replacing worn parts promptly will prevent more serious problems down the road.
The benelli m2 20ga is a superb shotgun that offers a compelling combination of reliability, performance, and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or simply looking for a high-quality firearm, the M2 is well worth considering. With its wide range of configurations and upgrade options, you can customize it to perfectly suit your needs. I hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision. For more in-depth reviews and comparisons, check out resources like REI Expert Advice and articles on responsible gun ownership from the National Shooting Sports Foundation: NSSF. Remember to always practice safe gun handling procedures and follow all applicable laws and regulations.