Gable Sporting Goods

Description

The Benelli M2 Field is a semi-automatic shotgun built for hunters who demand reliability in the field, whether chasing pheasants across the Midwest or setting decoys for ducks in a coastal marsh. As a U.S.-based firearms retailer, we know that a shotgun needs to cycle fast and function in harsh weather, and this 20-gauge model delivers on both counts. For the hunter who values a lightweight, quick-handling platform without sacrificing the proven inertia-driven action, the M2 Field is a practical choice.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

The Benelli M2 Field 20ga 3-inch is a semi-automatic shotgun designed primarily for upland bird hunting, waterfowl hunting, and clay target shooting. It is not a tactical or home-defense shotgun—its 26-inch barrel and field-oriented stock geometry make it best suited for moving targets in open spaces. This model is for the hunter who spends long days in the field and needs a gun that sheds mud, snow, and debris without hesitation. It also appeals to shooters who appreciate the reduced recoil and lighter weight of a 20-gauge platform, making it a solid option for younger or smaller-framed hunters. Collectors will note the Shadow Grass Blades camo finish, which offers effective concealment in marsh and grassland environments.

Key Specifications

• Caliber/Gauge: 20-gauge, chambered for 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells
• Capacity: 3+1 rounds (includes a plug for migratory bird hunting compliance)
• Barrel Length: 26 inches
• Overall Length: 47.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 5.6 pounds (unloaded)
• Finish: Realtree Shadow Grass Blades camo dip on receiver, barrel, and forend
• Stock: Synthetic with Realtree Shadow Grass Blades camo, textured grip panels
• Sights: Red bar front sight with a fiber-optic insert
• Choke System: Benelli Crio system with three interchangeable chokes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder)
• Action: Inertia-driven semi-automatic
• Receiver Material: Aluminum alloy with steel barrel trunnion
• Length of Pull: 14.375 inches
• Drop at Comb: 1.375 inches
• Drop at Heel: 2.125 inches

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli M2 Field’s defining feature is its inertia-driven operating system. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, the M2 uses the recoil energy from each shot to cycle the action. This design eliminates the need for gas ports, pistons, or O-rings, which means there are fewer parts to clean or replace. For hunters in wet or dusty conditions, this is a significant advantage—the action remains reliable even when the gun is dirty or lightly lubricated. The inertia system also allows the M2 to cycle a wide range of 20-gauge loads, from light 2.75-inch target shells to heavy 3-inch magnum waterfowl loads, without manual adjustment.

The 26-inch barrel is fitted with Benelli’s Crio system, which cryogenically treats the steel to relieve stress and improve patterning consistency. The result is a barrel that delivers tighter, more uniform shot patterns shot after shot. The Crio chokes are also cryogenically treated and feature a knurled end for easy hand-tightening. The barrel is ventilated-ribbed for quick sight acquisition on swinging targets, and the red bar front sight with fiber-optic insert provides a clear aiming point in low light conditions, such as early morning duck hunts.

The synthetic stock is lightweight and durable, with a textured grip area on the forend and pistol grip to maintain control in wet hands. The comb is slightly raised to align the shooter’s eye naturally with the rib, reducing the need for cheek pressure adjustments. The stock also features a soft rubber recoil pad that reduces felt recoil, making the 20-gauge M2 comfortable for extended shooting sessions. The overall length of pull is 14.375 inches, which suits most adult shooters without need for modification.

The Shadow Grass Blades camo finish is applied to the receiver, barrel, and all visible synthetic parts. This pattern incorporates vertical grass blades and marsh vegetation tones, making it effective for hiding the shotgun against reeds, cattails, and field stubble. The finish is bonded to the aluminum alloy receiver and steel barrel, resisting scratches and corrosion from saltwater or mud. The receiver itself is drilled and tapped for scope mounting, though most users will rely on the factory fiber-optic sight for wing shooting.

Maintenance is straightforward. The inertia system can be disassembled for cleaning by removing the forend cap and sliding the barrel off. The bolt and inertia spring are easily accessed for lubrication. Benelli recommends a light coat of oil on the bolt rails and inertia spring, but the system runs reliably even with minimal lubrication. This low-maintenance requirement is a key reason why the M2 is favored by guides and hunters who put thousands of rounds through their guns each season.

Ideal Use Cases

• Upland Bird Hunting: The lightweight 20-gauge platform is ideal for walking miles behind pointing dogs. The 26-inch barrel swings quickly on flushing quail, pheasants, or grouse.
• Waterfowl Hunting: The Shadow Grass Blades camo and 3-inch chamber make this shotgun effective for ducks and geese over decoys or in pass-shooting setups. The inertia system sheds mud and water without issue.
• Clay Target Shooting: The M2 Field handles well on skeet and sporting clays courses. The Crio barrel and interchangeable chokes allow shooters to tune patterns for different target presentations.
• Turkey Hunting: With the proper 3-inch turkey loads and a full choke, this 20-gauge delivers sufficient pattern density for spring gobblers at typical ranges.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: This shotgun cycles 2.75-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge shells. It is not compatible with 3.5-inch magnum loads. Light target loads (1 oz or 7/8 oz) may require break-in with heavier loads initially, but the inertia system typically handles them after 50-100 rounds.
• Chokes: Uses Benelli Crio chokes with a 12-thread pitch. Standard Benelli/Beretta Mobilchoke patterns are not compatible. Aftermarket Crio chokes from Carlson’s or Briley work correctly.
• Holsters/Slings: No holster available. Accepts standard 1-inch sling swivel studs (included). A padded sling is recommended for long walks.
• Magazines/Extensions: Tube magazine is fixed. Aftermarket extensions are not recommended as they require permanent modification and may affect cycling.
• Accessories: The receiver is drilled and tapped for a scope base. Factory or aftermarket rail mounts are available. Recoil pad is replaceable with aftermarket options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I have this shotgun shipped to my home address?
A: No. Federal law requires that all firearms purchased from a licensed dealer be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. We ship to the FFL you designate. You must coordinate with that FFL before placing your order.

Q: How does the FFL transfer process work?
A: After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL’s contact information. We will then ship the Benelli M2 Field to that FFL. You will be notified when it arrives, and you will complete a Form 4473 and pass a NICS background check at the FFL’s location. Transfer fees are set by the receiving FFL and are not included in our price.

Q: What ammunition does this shotgun cycle reliably?
A: The M2 Field is designed for 20-gauge shells from 2.75-inch to 3-inch. For best reliability, use shells with at least 1 ounce of shot. Light target loads (7/8 oz) may not generate enough recoil to cycle the inertia system during break-in. We recommend firing 50-100 rounds of heavy field loads (1 oz or more) before switching to lighter target ammunition.

Q: What is the warranty on this Benelli shotgun?
A: Benelli USA provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the firearm. The warranty is non-transferable. Benelli also offers a 5-year warranty on the finish and camo. For warranty service, contact Benelli USA directly with proof of purchase.

Q: What is your return policy on firearms?
A: All firearm sales are final. We inspect each shotgun before shipment to ensure it meets factory specifications. If you receive a firearm with a manufacturer defect, we will assist you in filing a warranty claim with Benelli. We do not accept returns for change of mind, cosmetic preferences, or ammunition-related issues. Please verify your local laws and FFL requirements before ordering.

Closing Call to Action

The Benelli M2 Field 20ga 3-inch semi-auto shotgun is in stock and ready to ship to your preferred FFL dealer anywhere in the United States. As a licensed FFL retailer, we handle all required paperwork and shipping documentation to ensure a smooth transfer. Order today to add this reliable field shotgun to your collection.