Description
For the upland hunter who values a fast-handling shotgun that reduces felt recoil without sacrificing reliability, the Benelli M2 Field Shotgun with ComforTech, chambered in 20 gauge with a 26″ barrel and finished in Max-5 camo, offers a practical balance of weight and performance. Designed for long days in the field chasing pheasants, quail, or grouse across U.S. public lands, this semi-automatic platform cycles quickly and keeps you on target through repeated shots. Whether you’re working a flushing dog in the Dakota prairies or walking a Georgia woodlot, the M2 Field brings Benelli’s proven inertia-driven system to a lighter, more manageable gauge.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Benelli M2 Field is a semi-automatic shotgun built on the company’s reliable inertia-operated action, scaled here for the 20-gauge shooter. This model is intended for upland bird hunters who need a lightweight firearm that swings easily and handles varied terrain without fatigue. It also suits target shooters who prefer a lower-recoil option for clay games like sporting clays or skeet, as well as hunters pursuing small game or waterfowl in moderate cover. While not designed for home defense or concealed carry, its fast cycling and reduced recoil make it a solid choice for recreational shooters who value consistency and low maintenance. Collectors may appreciate the Max-5 camo finish as a durable field option, but this is primarily a working gun for active use.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 20 Gauge (2.75″ and 3″ shells)
- Action: Semi-automatic, inertia-driven
- Barrel Length: 26 inches
- Overall Length: 46.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 5.8 pounds (unloaded)
- Stock: ComforTech synthetic with recoil-reducing chevron design
- Finish: Max-5 camouflage (Realtree Max-5 pattern)
- Choke System: Benelli Crio system (includes IC, M, F chokes; accepts aftermarket options)
- Capacity: 4+1 (3″ shells) or 5+1 (2.75″ shells)
- Sights: Red bar front sight with fiber optic insert
- Receiver: Aluminum alloy with matte black anodized finish
- Length of Pull: 14.375 inches
- Drop at Comb: 1.5 inches
- Drop at Heel: 2.25 inches
Feature Deep-Dive
The Benelli M2 Field’s inertia-driven operating system is a standout feature for hunters who want reliability without the added weight of gas-operated designs. Unlike gas guns that require regular cleaning of pistons and rings, the M2’s inertia system uses the shotgun’s recoil energy to cycle the action, which means fewer fouling issues and consistent function across a wide range of loads. This system is particularly well-suited to the 20-gauge platform, where reduced recoil is already a benefit, and it allows the shotgun to remain compact and light—under six pounds unloaded—without sacrificing durability. In field conditions with dust, mud, or light rain, the inertia action continues to cycle reliably, which is a practical advantage for hunters who may not have time to strip and clean a gas gun between outings.
The ComforTech stock is another key element that sets this model apart from standard M2 variants. Benelli engineers designed the stock with a series of chevron-shaped recesses along the comb and buttpad that flex under recoil, absorbing energy before it reaches the shooter’s shoulder and cheek. For a 20-gauge shotgun, this might seem unnecessary, but the reduction in felt recoil is noticeable when firing heavier 3″ magnum loads for waterfowl or larger upland birds. The stock also features a gel recoil pad that further dampens impact, making extended range sessions or long hunting days more comfortable. The synthetic material is weather-resistant and won’t warp in humidity, which matters for hunters who store their firearms in varied conditions.
The 26″ barrel strikes a practical compromise between maneuverability and sight radius for upland hunting. At this length, the shotgun swings quickly in thick cover while still providing enough barrel to maintain a smooth follow-through on crossing shots. The Crio-treated barrel, which is cryogenically finished to relieve stress in the steel, is designed to produce consistent patterns with the included choke tubes. Hunters can switch between the Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full chokes to match the shot size and distance of their quarry, from close-flushing quail to longer-range pheasants. The red bar front sight with fiber optic insert is simple but effective in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk, giving a clear aiming point without bulky optics.
Weight distribution on the M2 Field is notably balanced, with the inertia system’s components housed in the receiver rather than added to the barrel. This keeps the shotgun’s center of gravity between the hands, reducing muzzle fatigue during long walks. The 20-gauge chambering accepts both 2.75″ and 3″ shells, giving the shooter flexibility to use light target loads for practice or heavier field loads for hunting. Capacity is standard for a field model at 4+1 with 3″ shells, which is sufficient for most hunting scenarios without adding bulk. The aluminum receiver is anodized in matte black, which resists scratches and corrosion, while the Max-5 camo finish on the stock and forend blends into a variety of autumn and wetland environments.
Disassembly and cleaning are straightforward for this model, a benefit for owners who prefer to maintain their own firearms. The inertia system requires only basic tools to remove the bolt and trigger group, and the barrel can be separated by unscrewing the magazine cap. This simplicity reduces the time needed for field stripping after a wet or dusty hunt. Additionally, the M2 Field’s compatibility with aftermarket accessories—such as extended magazine tubes, sling mounts, and replacement chokes—allows users to tailor the shotgun to specific needs without modifying the core action. For the shooter who values a low-maintenance, lightweight 20-gauge, this model delivers consistent performance with minimal fuss.
Ideal Use Cases
- Upland Bird Hunting: The 20-gauge chambering and 26″ barrel make this a natural choice for pheasants, quail, grouse, and woodcock in open to moderately thick cover. The Max-5 camo pattern blends with grasslands and forest edges.
- Small Game Hunting: Effective for rabbits, squirrels, and other small game where a lighter load is preferred. The inertia action cycles reliably with 2.75″ target loads.
- Clay Target Shooting: Suitable for sporting clays, skeet, and trap at recreational levels. The reduced recoil and quick handling help maintain focus during longer sessions.
- Waterfowl Hunting (Limited): While not a dedicated waterfowl gun, it can be used with 3″ steel shot loads for ducks or geese in pass-shooting scenarios, provided the shooter is comfortable with the 26″ barrel.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: Accepts 20-gauge shells from 2.75″ target loads to 3″ magnum hunting loads. For best reliability with the inertia system, use shells with at least 1,200 fps velocity for lighter target loads. Avoid subsonic or low-recoil loads.
- Chokes: Uses Benelli Crio chokes (thread pattern). Aftermarket chokes from Carlson’s, Patternmaster, or Trulock are compatible if specified for Benelli Crio.
- Accessories: Slings can be attached via aftermarket swivel studs or clamp-on mounts. Extended magazine tubes (e.g., +1 or +2) are available from Nordic Components or Benelli parts. Replacement stocks and forends must fit the M2 Field’s inertia system dimensions.
- Holsters/Cases: Not applicable for holsters; use a soft or hard case for transport. The 46.5″ overall length fits standard shotgun cases.
FAQ
Q: Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
A: No. Federal law requires that all firearms shipped from our store be sent to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. We ship to licensed dealers only. After your purchase, we will ask you to provide the FFL’s contact information. We do not ship to P.O. boxes or residential addresses.
Q: How does the FFL transfer process work?
A: After you place an order, you will need to select a local FFL dealer who is willing to receive the firearm. Contact the dealer first to confirm they accept transfers and ask about their fees. Provide us with the FFL’s name, address, and license number. We will ship the Benelli M2 Field to them, and you will complete a background check (Form 4473) at the dealer’s location before taking possession. Transfer times vary by dealer but typically take 1-3 business days after arrival.
Q: What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
A: The Benelli M2 Field in 20 gauge accepts 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. For reliable cycling, use ammunition with a velocity of at least 1,200 fps for light target loads. Heavier hunting loads (1,300-1,500 fps) function well. Steel shot is acceptable for waterfowl use. Avoid using subsonic, reduced-recoil, or low-brass target loads under 1,150 fps, as the inertia system may not cycle them consistently.
Q: What warranty does Benelli provide for this shotgun?
A: Benelli USA offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials or workmanship. This covers the firearm’s receiver, barrel, and stock under normal use. Warranty service is handled directly through Benelli USA; you will need to provide proof of purchase. We recommend registering your shotgun on Benelli’s website after purchase. The warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper ammunition, or unauthorized modifications.
Q: What is your return policy for firearms?
A: Due to federal regulations and safety concerns, we do not accept returns on firearms for change of mind or cosmetic preferences. If your Benelli M2 Field arrives with a functional defect or damage from shipping, contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with Benelli’s warranty team to arrange repair or replacement. All firearms are inspected before shipment, and we photograph serial numbers for your protection.
This Benelli M2 Field Shotgun with ComforTech is available for purchase now, and we ship to licensed
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