Description
For the upland hunter or sport shooter navigating dense cover or long days in the field, the 2023 Benelli M2 Field Compact in 20 gauge offers a balanced combination of reduced weight, manageable recoil, and proven reliability. This iteration of the M2 line retains the inertia-driven system that has made Benelli a trusted name among American shooters, while introducing a compact 24-inch barrel and a black synthetic stock designed for quick handling. Whether you are pursuing pheasants in the Midwest or working a sporting clays course on the East Coast, this shotgun is built for consistent performance without unnecessary bulk.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Benelli M2 Field Compact 20 ga is a semi-automatic shotgun tailored for shooters who prioritize ease of carry and fast target acquisition. This model is specifically designed for upland hunters who walk miles of rolling terrain, as well as sport shooters who value a lightweight platform for clay targets. It is also a solid choice for shooters of smaller stature or those who prefer a reduced length of pull and a shorter fore-end, as the “Compact” designation indicates a stock that fits a wider range of body types. While it is not intended for home defense or concealed carry, its reliable cycling and low recoil make it a viable option for recreational range use and small-game hunting. Collectors will appreciate the 2023 updates, which include refinements to the bolt and recoil system for smoother operation.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 20 Gauge (2.75- and 3-inch shells)
- Barrel Length: 24 inches
- Overall Length: 45.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 5.6 pounds (unloaded)
- Capacity: 4+1 rounds (3-inch chamber)
- Stock: Black synthetic with textured grip panels and a 13-inch length of pull
- Receiver: Anodized aluminum with a matte black finish
- Barrel Finish: Glossy blue with a ventilated rib
- Sights: Red bar front sight with a metal bead
- Choke System: Benelli Crio system with three interchangeable chokes (C, IC, M)
- Action: Inertia-driven semi-automatic
- Safety: Cross-bolt safety located at the rear of the trigger guard
Feature Deep-Dive
The 2023 Benelli M2 Field Compact builds on a legacy of inertia-driven reliability, a system that uses the shotgun’s recoil energy to cycle the action rather than relying on gas ports or springs. This design keeps the internal mechanism cleaner and reduces the need for frequent maintenance, which is a practical advantage for hunters who spend long days in dusty or damp conditions. The 24-inch barrel provides a balance between swing speed and sight radius, making it easier to track moving targets without the extra weight of a longer barrel. Paired with the compact stock, the overall length of 45.5 inches allows the shotgun to come to the shoulder quickly, which can make a difference when a rooster flushes unexpectedly from thick cover.
The black synthetic stock is a key update for 2023, offering improved resistance to weather and impact compared to traditional wood stocks. The textured grip panels on the fore-end and pistol grip help maintain control in wet or gloved hands, and the 13-inch length of pull accommodates shooters who find standard 14.25-inch stocks too long. The comb is slightly raised to promote a proper cheek weld, which aids in consistent shot placement. The receiver is milled from anodized aluminum to keep weight down without sacrificing strength, and the matte black finish reduces glare in bright sunlight.
Benelli’s Crio choke system is included with three stainless steel chokes: Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, and Modified. These chokes are cryogenically treated to improve pattern consistency and longevity, and they are easily swapped without tools. The ventilated rib barrel features a red bar front sight that is easy to pick up in low-light conditions, such as early morning or late evening hunts. The trigger pull is crisp and breaks at around 6.5 pounds, which is standard for a field shotgun and contributes to predictable shot placement.
The inertia-driven action is the heart of this shotgun’s reliability. Unlike gas-operated systems, the M2 Field Compact has no gas ports to clog or O-rings to replace. The system cycles a wide range of 20-gauge loads, from light 2.75-inch target shells to heavier 3-inch magnums, with minimal adjustment. The bolt design has been refined for 2023 to reduce friction and improve cycling speed, which can be noticeable during rapid follow-up shots. The magazine tube holds four rounds, and the spring is designed to feed reliably even when the gun is tilted at awkward angles, a common scenario in field shooting.
The compact dimensions do not compromise the shotgun’s durability. The stock is attached to the receiver via a single bolt, and the trigger group is removable for cleaning without tools. The cross-bolt safety is positioned for easy access by both right- and left-handed shooters, though the ejection port is right-side only. The overall weight of 5.6 pounds makes it one of the lighter semi-automatic 20-gauge shotguns on the market, which reduces fatigue during long walks or extended range sessions. The 2023 updates also include a redesigned recoil pad that absorbs more energy, making the M2 Field Compact comfortable to shoot even with magnum loads.
Ideal Use Cases
This shotgun is primarily designed for upland hunting, where its light weight and quick handling are assets in chasing pheasants, quail, grouse, and woodcock. The 24-inch barrel is short enough to maneuver through thick brush but long enough to maintain a smooth swing on crossing targets. For sport shooters, the M2 Field Compact performs well on sporting clays and skeet fields, particularly for shooters who prefer a lighter gun for long courses. The reduced length of pull also makes it a good fit for younger shooters or those with shorter arms who are transitioning from a youth model. While it can be used for home defense in a pinch, the 20-gauge load and 4+1 capacity are less optimal for that role compared to dedicated defensive shotguns. It is not intended for concealed carry or competition shooting beyond casual club events.
Compatibility Notes
The Benelli M2 Field Compact accepts standard 20-gauge 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. It functions best with loads that have a minimum velocity of around 1,200 feet per second for reliable cycling, though the inertia system handles lighter target loads reasonably well after a short break-in period. Aftermarket accessories are limited compared to more common 12-gauge models, but you can find compatible sling swivel studs, barrel extensions (with magazine tube modifications), and recoil pads from companies like Mesa Tactical and Kick-eez. The Crio choke system uses Benelli-specific threads, so aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson’s or Trulock are available. Holsters are not applicable to this shotgun, but soft cases and hard cases for 45-inch overall length shotguns will fit. Magazines are not user-replaceable, but the internal magazine tube can be upgraded by a qualified gunsmith to increase capacity if state laws permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can this shotgun be shipped to my address in the United States?
Yes, we ship to all 50 states, but the shotgun must be sent to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder for transfer. We do not ship directly to residential addresses. Once the transfer is complete, you can take possession of the firearm from your chosen FFL dealer. - How does the FFL transfer process work with your store?
After placing your order, you will need to provide the contact information for a licensed FFL dealer in your area. We verify their license, then ship the shotgun to them. You pay any applicable transfer fees directly to the FFL. We recommend contacting your local dealer beforehand to confirm they accept transfers and to understand their fee structure. - What ammunition is compatible with the Benelli M2 Field Compact?
This shotgun is designed for 20-gauge shells in 2.75-inch and 3-inch lengths. It cycles most factory loads, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs, as long as they meet the minimum velocity of approximately 1,200 fps. For best performance during initial use, we recommend running a box of high-velocity target loads to break in the inertia system. - What warranty does Benelli provide for this shotgun?
Benelli offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or modifications. If you encounter an issue, you can contact Benelli USA directly or work with us to facilitate a warranty claim. We recommend keeping your purchase receipt for warranty registration. - What is your return policy for firearms?
Due to federal regulations, we cannot accept returns on firearms once they have been transferred to an FFL. If the shotgun arrives with a manufacturing defect, we will work with Benelli to arrange a replacement or repair under warranty. For issues related to shipping damage, please inspect the firearm at your FFL before accepting the transfer and contact us immediately if damage is present.
Closing Call to Action
The 2023 Benelli M2 Field Compact 20 ga is available now for shipping to your local FFL dealer across the United States. If you have questions about fit, compatibility, or the ordering process, our team is here to help. Add this shotgun to your cart to secure a reliable field companion for the upcoming season.
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