Description
For the American hunter who demands a shotgun that performs reliably across diverse conditions, from the flooded timber of Arkansas to the sagebrush flats of the West, the Benelli M2 12 Gauge Semi-Auto in Realtree Max-5 Camo offers a proven platform. This left-hand model is engineered for right-handed shooters who prefer a left-ejecting action or for left-handed shooters seeking a proper cheek weld and ejection clearance. It is a field-ready tool built to cycle a wide range of 12-gauge loads without hesitation, making it a practical choice for waterfowl, upland birds, and turkey hunting.
What This Product Is and Who It Is For
The Benelli M2 is a semi-automatic shotgun that uses the company’s proprietary inertia-driven operating system, which has a long track record in demanding environments. This particular configuration is a field-grade shotgun with a 28-inch barrel, a 3-inch chamber, and a Realtree Max-5 camouflage finish. It is designed primarily for hunters who spend long days in the field, where weight, balance, and reliability are critical. While it can be used for home defense or recreational target shooting, its primary design focus is on hunting applications, particularly waterfowl and upland game. This model is not intended for concealed carry or competitive shooting disciplines like 3-gun, as its barrel length and stock design are optimized for field use.
Key Specifications Breakdown
- Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Action: Semi-automatic, inertia-driven
- Barrel Length: 28 inches
- Chamber: 3 inches (accepts 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells)
- Overall Length: Approximately 49.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 6.7 to 7.1 pounds (unloaded, depending on stock variations)
- Stock and Forend: Realtree Max-5 camo finish over synthetic material
- Receiver: Aluminum alloy with Realtree Max-5 camo coating
- Barrel Finish: Realtree Max-5 camo over steel
- Chokes: Benelli Crio system (flush-mounted, typically includes IC, M, F chokes)
- Sights: Red bar front sight
- Capacity: 4+1 (3-inch shells) or 5+1 (2 ¾-inch shells) with included plug
- Safety: Cross-bolt, reversible for left-hand operation
- Ejection: Left-hand ejection port
- Length of Pull: Approximately 14 3/8 inches
- Drop at Comb: Approximately 1 ½ inches
- Drop at Heel: Approximately 2 ¼ inches
Feature Deep-Dive
The Benelli M2’s defining characteristic is its inertia-driven operating system. Unlike gas-operated shotguns that divert propellant gas to cycle the action, the M2 uses the recoil energy from the fired shell. This system has fewer moving parts, which reduces the need for frequent cleaning and lubrication. For hunters in wet or dusty conditions, this means the shotgun will continue to function when a gas system might choke on debris or moisture. The inertia system also contributes to the M2’s light weight, as it does not require the heavy piston assemblies found in gas guns.
The 28-inch barrel is a standard length for field use, providing a good balance between swing speed and sight radius. The Benelli Crio system uses cryogenically treated barrels, which are intended to improve consistency and reduce shot deformation. The included flush-mounted choke tubes allow the shooter to adjust patterns for different game and distances. The Realtree Max-5 camo pattern is designed to blend into a variety of wetland and timber environments, making it a versatile choice for hunters who pursue multiple species.
This left-hand model is built with a left-handed ejection port and a left-handed bolt handle. The cross-bolt safety is reversible, allowing the shooter to configure it for left-hand operation. The stock and forend are made from a durable synthetic material that resists warping and is impervious to moisture. The comb height and drop are set for a typical field shooting posture, providing a natural point of aim for most shooters. The red bar front sight is simple and effective for quick target acquisition in low-light conditions.
The magazine tube has a capacity of four 3-inch shells, plus one in the chamber. A plug is included to limit capacity to two shells for migratory bird hunting, as required by federal law. Removing the plug restores the full capacity for other uses. The bolt release button is located on the right side of the receiver, and the bolt handle on the left side for this specific model. The overall fit and finish are consistent with Benelli’s field-grade standards, meaning the gun is built for hard use without unnecessary embellishments.
Weight is a significant consideration for a field shotgun, and the M2 comes in at just over seven pounds. This makes it comfortable to carry for long walks through fields or marshes. The balance point is forward of the receiver, which helps the barrel swing smoothly on moving targets. The synthetic stock has a textured grip area to provide purchase in wet conditions. The recoil pad is a rubber unit that helps mitigate felt recoil, which is noticeable with 3-inch magnum loads but manageable with standard field loads.
The Benelli M2 has a reputation for cycling low-recoil target loads, though it is primarily designed for hunting loads. Some light target loads may not generate enough recoil to fully cycle the action, particularly when the gun is new. This is a characteristic of inertia-driven systems and can be addressed by using loads with a minimum velocity of around 1200 feet per second during the break-in period. Once broken in, the M2 typically handles a wider range of ammunition reliably.
Ideal Use Cases
Waterfowl Hunting: The Realtree Max-5 camo pattern is specifically designed for wetland environments, making this shotgun a strong option for duck and goose hunting. The 28-inch barrel provides good swing and pattern density with steel shot. The inertia system is reliable in cold, muddy conditions.
Upland Bird Hunting: The light weight and balanced feel of the M2 make it suitable for walking up pheasants, grouse, or quail. The ability to change chokes allows the shooter to adapt to different cover and bird sizes.
Turkey Hunting: With a full choke or turkey-specific choke tube, the M2 can be used for turkey hunting. The camo pattern helps with concealment, and the gun’s reliability is a benefit in the field.
Home Defense: While not its primary design, the M2 can serve as a home defense firearm. The 28-inch barrel is longer than typical defensive shotguns, but the 12-gauge chambering and semi-automatic action provide significant capacity and stopping power. This role is secondary to its hunting purpose.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: The M2 is compatible with 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. It is designed for lead, steel, and other non-toxic shot types. For reliable cycling, use shells with a minimum velocity of 1200 fps, especially during break-in. Slower target loads may not cycle consistently.
- Chokes: Uses Benelli Crio flush-mounted choke tubes. Aftermarket chokes from manufacturers like Carlson’s or Patternmaster that are compatible with the Crio thread pattern will also work.
- Accessories: Magazine tube extensions are available but may require a longer spring and barrel clamp. Picatinny rail mounts for optics are available from aftermarket sources. Sling swivel studs are pre-installed on the stock and forend.
- Holsters: Not applicable for this firearm.
- Parts: Benelli OEM parts are recommended for replacement. Aftermarket parts from reputable brands like Nordic Components or Mesa Tactical are available for specific upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home address?
No. Federal law requires that all firearms purchased from a licensed dealer be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state of residence. We will ship the Benelli M2 to the FFL dealer you designate during the checkout process. You must provide a valid FFL address and confirm that the dealer is willing to accept the transfer.
2. What is the FFL transfer process for this shotgun?
After placing your order, you will need to provide the contact information for your chosen FFL dealer. We will verify the FFL license and ship the firearm to them. The dealer will then contact you to complete the required background check (NICS) and any state-specific paperwork. You will pay the dealer a transfer fee, which is separate from the purchase price. We recommend contacting your FFL dealer before ordering to confirm their process and fees.
3. Will this shotgun cycle all types of 12-gauge ammunition?
This Benelli M2 will cycle most high-velocity hunting loads reliably. However, as an inertia-driven shotgun, it may not cycle very low-recoil target loads (below 1200 fps) consistently, especially when new. We recommend using hunting-grade ammunition for initial use. After a break-in period of 100-200 rounds of standard velocity ammunition, the action typically becomes more tolerant of lighter loads. For best results, use ammunition with a minimum velocity of 1200 feet per second.
4. What is the warranty on this Benelli M2?
Benelli USA provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is non-transferable. It covers repair or replacement of defective parts at Benelli’s discretion. Normal wear and tear, damage from misuse, or modifications by unauthorized parties are not covered. You can register your warranty on the Benelli USA website after purchase. We recommend keeping your sales receipt as proof of purchase.
5. What is your return policy on firearms?
Due to federal regulations and safety considerations, we cannot accept returns on firearms for reasons other than a manufacturer defect or a shipping error. If your Benelli M2 arrives with a functional defect or is not as described, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with you and Benelli to arrange for a warranty repair or replacement. If you are unsatisfied with the product for personal reasons, you may be able to transfer it through your local FFL dealer, but we cannot accept it back for a refund. Please inspect your firearm thoroughly at your FFL dealer upon pickup.
Closing Call to Action
This left-hand Benelli M2 12 Gauge Field Shotgun in Realtree Max-5 Camo is in stock and available for purchase. We ship to licensed FFL dealers
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