Description
The 2023 Benelli M2 Field Shotgun represents a considered update to a platform already trusted by waterfowlers and upland hunters across the United States. For hunters working flooded timber in Arkansas, cornfields in the Midwest, or sagebrush in the West, this inertia-driven 12-gauge offers a reliable, low-maintenance option that cycles fast and handles well in variable conditions. Whether you’re chasing ducks, pheasants, or turkeys, the M2 Field line has been refined for the 2023 season to meet the demands of serious American hunters.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Benelli M2 Field 12G 28″ Max-4 HD Comfortech stock is a semi-automatic shotgun designed primarily for waterfowl and upland bird hunting. It is built on Benelli’s proven inertia-driven operating system, which uses recoil energy to cycle the action without the need for gas pistons or complex internal parts. This model is intended for hunters who spend long days in the field and require a shotgun that functions reliably in mud, snow, and freezing temperatures. It is not a tactical or home-defense shotgun; it is a field gun optimized for wingshooting. Collectors may also appreciate the updated 2023 features, but the primary audience is the working hunter who values dependability and ease of maintenance over gadgetry.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (2.75″ and 3″ shells)
- Capacity: 4+1 (with included plug; 3+1 with plug for migratory birds)
- Barrel Length: 28 inches
- Overall Length: 49.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 6.7 pounds (unloaded)
- Finish: Realtree Max-4 HD camouflage on barrel, receiver, and stock
- Stock: Benelli Comfortech synthetic stock with recoil-reducing system
- Choke System: Benelli Crio system with interchangeable chokes (C, IC, M, IM, F included)
- Sights: Red bar front sight with fiber optic insert
- Receiver: Aluminum alloy with anodized finish
- Action: Inertia-driven semi-automatic
- Length of Pull: 14.375 inches
- Drop at Comb: 1.5 inches
- Drop at Heel: 2.25 inches
Feature Deep-Dive
The 2023 Benelli M2 Field incorporates several updates that distinguish it from previous generations. The most notable is the revised Comfortech stock system, which now features a softer, more flexible recoil pad and a redesigned cheek piece. This stock uses Benelli’s patented “Comfortech” technology, which employs a series of chevron-shaped buffers inside the stock to absorb and redirect recoil energy. For hunters shooting heavy 3-inch magnum loads on a long day, this reduces felt recoil by up to 48% compared to standard stocks. The 2023 version also includes a slimmer forend profile, which improves hand placement and swing speed for fast-moving targets.
The inertia-driven action remains a central selling point for this shotgun. Unlike gas-operated semi-automatics, the M2 has no gas ports, pistons, or o-rings to clean or replace. The action is powered by a single rotating bolt and a spring-loaded inertia spring. When you fire, the recoil forces the bolt carrier rearward, compressing the spring, which then drives the bolt forward to chamber the next round. This simplicity means the M2 cycles reliably in extreme cold, heavy rain, or after hundreds of rounds without cleaning. Field stripping for maintenance requires only removing the forend cap and pulling the barrel—no tools are needed.
The 28-inch barrel on this model is fitted with Benelli’s Crio system, which cryogenically treats the steel to reduce internal stress and improve patterning consistency. The barrel is also back-bored, meaning the internal diameter is slightly larger than standard, which reduces felt recoil and produces tighter, more uniform shot patterns. The Crio chokes are also cryogenically treated and are designed to provide consistent constriction across the full range of loads. Hunters can switch between the five included chokes to match their quarry and shooting conditions, from close-range wood ducks to long-range geese.
The Realtree Max-4 HD camouflage pattern is applied using a durable, matte finish that reduces glare and helps the shotgun blend into wetland and upland environments. The pattern includes a mix of cattails, reeds, and dead grass tones, making it effective for both marsh and field settings. The aluminum receiver is anodized in a matching camo pattern, and the barrel is coated with a corrosion-resistant finish. While no finish is indestructible, this coating is designed to withstand the moisture and abrasion typical of waterfowl hunting.
Another 2023 update is the inclusion of a revised bolt release button, which is now slightly larger and textured for easier operation with gloved hands. The bolt handle is also slightly longer for the same reason. The magazine tube has been extended to accept four 2.75-inch shells, though a plug is included for compliance with migratory bird regulations. The trigger pull is crisp and breaks at approximately 5.5 pounds, which is consistent with field-grade shotguns. The overall fit and finish are typical of Benelli’s Italian manufacturing standards: tight tolerances, smooth action, and a well-balanced feel that points naturally for most shooters.
Finally, the M2 Field ships with a hard plastic case, a set of Crio chokes, a choke wrench, and the magazine plug. The stock is equipped with sling swivel studs, and the forend includes a metal insert for mounting a sling swivel if desired. The shotgun weighs just under 7 pounds, which puts it in the lightweight category for a 12-gauge. This makes it suitable for all-day carries in the field, but the reduced weight does mean that heavy loads will produce more recoil than a heavier gas-operated gun—though the Comfortech system mitigates this effectively.
Ideal Use Cases
This shotgun is designed for hunting. Specifically, it excels in waterfowl hunting scenarios where you need a reliable, fast-cycling semi-automatic that can handle both 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. The 28-inch barrel provides a good balance between swing speed and sight radius for pass shooting and decoying birds. Upland hunters will also find the M2 Field effective for pheasants, grouse, and quail, thanks to its light weight and quick handling. The shotgun is not intended for home defense, concealed carry, or competition shooting—there are other Benelli models better suited to those roles. However, it can be used for recreational target shooting with clay pigeons if you prefer to practice with your hunting gun.
Compatibility Notes
The Benelli M2 Field is compatible with all standard 12-gauge 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. It will not cycle 3.5-inch magnum shells, as the chamber is not designed for that length. For ammunition, the inertia system works best with loads of 1.125 ounces or heavier; light target loads (1 ounce or less) may fail to cycle reliably, especially when the gun is new. Benelli recommends a break-in period of 100 to 200 rounds of heavy field loads before switching to lighter target ammunition. Aftermarket accessories include extended magazine tubes (check state and federal regulations), aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson’s or Patternmaster, and sling mounts. The shotgun accepts standard Benelli M2 synthetic stocks and forends, though the Comfortech stock is specific to this model. Holsters are not applicable; this is a long gun. Magazines are not applicable; this is a tube-fed shotgun.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you ship a shotgun to a U.S. customer?
We ship all firearms to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in your state. Once you place your order, we will need your chosen FFL’s contact information. We will then ship the shotgun via a common carrier (UPS or FedEx) to that dealer. You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a shotgun from a federally licensed retailer, though some states require you to be 21. Please verify your local laws before ordering.
2. What is the FFL transfer process?
After we ship the shotgun to your chosen FFL dealer, you will need to visit the dealer in person to complete the transfer. The dealer will run a federal background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Once you pass the check and pay any transfer fee the dealer charges (typically $25–$50), the shotgun is yours. We recommend contacting the dealer ahead of time to confirm their willingness to accept the transfer.
3. What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
This shotgun is chambered for 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. It will not fire 3.5-inch shells. For reliable cycling, use field loads of 1.125 ounces or heavier. Light target loads (1 ounce or less) may cause failures to eject or feed, especially during the first 200 rounds. We recommend using high-brass or magnum loads for break-in. Steel shot is safe through the Crio chokes, as they are designed for steel. Do not use steel shot with older non-steel-rated chokes.
4. What is the warranty on this shotgun?
Benelli USA provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the firearm. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications. If you encounter an issue, contact Benelli USA’s customer service for instructions. We also offer a 30-day return policy on new, unfired firearms—see below for details.
5. What is your return policy for firearms?
We accept returns on new, unfired firearms within 30 days of delivery. The shotgun must be in its original packaging with all accessories, and you must contact us for a return authorization number. Once we receive the firearm and confirm it is unfired, we will issue a refund minus a 15% restocking fee. Firearms that have been fired or modified are not eligible for return. All returns must be shipped to us by a licensed FFL dealer. Ammunition is not returnable.
Closing Call to Action
The 2023 Benelli M2 Field 12G 28″ Max-4 HD Comfortech stock is available now for purchase and ships to licensed FFL dealers across the United States. If you have questions about compatibility, ordering, or the transfer process, contact our team during business hours. We are a licensed FFL retailer and ship firearms to all states where law permits.
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