Description
For the American hunter who values reliability in the field and precision on the wing, the Benelli M2 Performance Shop Turkey 20 Gauge with a 24-inch barrel and Bottomland finish represents a purpose-built tool for the dedicated turkey hunter. This shotgun is engineered to perform under the demanding conditions of a spring morning, whether you are navigating dense timber or calling birds across a cutover. It is a firearm that benefits from Benelli’s renowned inertia-driven system and the specialized tuning of the Performance Shop, offering a distinct advantage for those who require consistent, fast follow-up shots.
What This Product Is and Who It Is For
The Benelli M2 Performance Shop Turkey is a semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 20 gauge, configured specifically for turkey hunting. It is not a general-purpose field gun; it is a specialized tool for the hunter who pursues wild turkeys in varied terrain across the United States, from the hardwood forests of the East to the open ranchlands of the West. This model is for the experienced hunter who understands the value of a lightweight, fast-handling platform that cycles reliably with heavy magnum loads. While it can be used for other shotgun applications, its design and features are optimized for the specific challenges of turkey hunting, including tight patterning at longer ranges and quick target acquisition in low-light conditions.
Key Specification Breakdown
- Caliber: 20 Gauge (accepts 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells)
- Capacity: 3 rounds (2+1 configuration, plug included for migratory bird compliance)
- Barrel Length: 24 inches, with a ventilated rib and a red front bead sight
- Finish: Bottomland camouflage (Realtree Bottomland pattern applied over a durable synthetic stock and forend)
- Action: Benelli’s Inertia-Driven system (no gas system to clean or adjust)
- Stock: Synthetic with a ComforTech recoil pad and a raised cheek piece for proper optic alignment
- Weight: Approximately 6.2 pounds (varies slightly with optic or sight configuration)
- Chamber: 3-inch, capable of handling 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells
- Sights: Red front bead sight; receiver is drilled and tapped for optics mounting (includes a Picatinny rail for red dot sights)
- Included Accessories: Factory-installed Performance Shop trigger group (lighter pull weight), oversized bolt handle, and an extended magazine tube (flush fit)
- Classification: Firearm (must be transferred through a Federal Firearms Licensee)
Feature Deep-Dive
The Benelli M2 Performance Shop Turkey derives its reliability from the company’s Inertia-Driven operating system, which is a proven design for hunters who operate in dusty, muddy, or wet conditions. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, the inertia system uses the recoil energy from each shot to cycle the action, which means there are no gas ports to clog or fouling to manage. This is a significant advantage for the turkey hunter who may spend hours in a blind or against a tree, where dirt and debris can compromise a gas gun’s function. The system also contributes to the shotgun’s light weight, as it requires fewer moving parts compared to other semi-automatic designs.
The Performance Shop designation indicates that this M2 has undergone additional hand-fitting and tuning at Benelli’s custom shop. The trigger assembly is a primary example, featuring a smoother pull with a reduced weight—typically around 3 to 3.5 pounds—compared to a standard M2. This allows for more precise shot placement when a tom hangs up at 40 yards. The oversized bolt handle and bolt release button are also Performance Shop additions, making the shotgun easier to manipulate with gloved hands in cold weather or when using shooting gloves. These are not cosmetic changes; they directly affect the shooter’s ability to load, unload, and clear malfunctions quickly in the field.
The 24-inch barrel length is a deliberate choice for turkey hunting. It is long enough to provide a consistent sight plane and sufficient velocity for heavy turkey loads, yet short enough to maneuver through brush and inside a vehicle or blind. The barrel is paired with a ventilated rib that reduces heat mirage on warmer days, and the red front bead provides a clear reference point for the shooter. More importantly, the receiver is drilled and tapped to accept a Picatinny rail, which is included with the shotgun. This allows the hunter to mount a red dot sight directly to the receiver, eliminating the need for a saddle mount and ensuring the optic stays zeroed after repeated shots.
The Bottomland camouflage finish is a time-tested pattern that blends well in mixed woodland and agricultural settings. It is applied to the synthetic stock and forend, which are constructed from a durable polymer that resists scratching and weather. The ComforTech recoil pad is a notable feature for a 20-gauge turkey gun, as it reduces felt recoil from heavy 3-inch magnum loads. This pad uses chevron-shaped grooves to dissipate recoil energy, which helps the shooter stay on target for a potential second shot. The raised comb on the stock is designed to align the shooter’s eye with a mounted optic, ensuring a consistent cheek weld and repeatable sight picture.
The extended magazine tube is a factory-installed feature that allows the shotgun to hold two shells in the magazine plus one in the chamber. It is flush with the barrel, maintaining the gun’s sleek profile while providing a standard capacity for turkey hunting. The magazine is fitted with a spring and follower designed for reliable feeding of both 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. This flexibility is important for hunters who may use lighter loads for practice and switch to heavy loads for the hunt without changing components. The shotgun also includes a magazine plug for those who hunt migratory birds, allowing it to be compliant with federal regulations for waterfowl.
Finally, the overall weight of approximately 6.2 pounds makes this shotgun one of the lighter semi-automatic turkey guns on the market. This is a practical advantage for hunters who walk significant distances to set up on a roosted bird or who carry the gun slung over a shoulder for hours. The weight reduction does not sacrifice durability, as the synthetic stock and aluminum alloy receiver are built to withstand the rigors of hard use. The Benelli M2 Performance Shop Turkey is a firearm that rewards the shooter with fast handling and consistent cycling, attributes that are essential when a gobbler appears unexpectedly.
Ideal Use Cases
This shotgun is primarily designed for turkey hunting, where its 20-gauge chambering, 24-inch barrel, and Bottomland finish provide a distinct advantage. The lighter weight and reduced recoil of the 20 gauge make it a suitable choice for hunters who prefer a more comfortable shooting experience without sacrificing pattern density when using premium turkey loads. It is also well-suited for hunters who spend long days in the field, as the inertia system requires minimal cleaning and maintenance. While it can be used for other types of hunting, such as upland birds or small game, its specific features—such as the raised comb and optic-ready receiver—are optimized for the stationary, precision-oriented nature of turkey hunting. It is not intended for concealed carry, home defense, or competitive shooting, though it could serve as a general-purpose shotgun for those who prioritize light weight and reliability.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: The M2 Performance Shop Turkey cycles reliably with 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. For optimal performance, use high-brass or magnum loads with shot sizes #4, #5, or #6. Light target loads may not generate enough recoil to cycle the action consistently, so test with your chosen ammunition before hunting.
- Holsters and Cases: Due to the 24-inch barrel and raised comb, this shotgun requires a case with a minimum interior length of 46 inches. Soft cases designed for shotguns with optics are recommended. No holster is applicable; a sling (standard M2 pattern) is recommended for field carry.
- Magazines and Accessories: The factory extended magazine tube is specific to this model. Aftermarket magazine extensions are available but must be compatible with the M2’s inertia system and the 20-gauge receiver. The Picatinny rail accepts standard red dot sights with a footprint suitable for shotgun mounts, such as the Trijicon RMR or Aimpoint Micro series.
- Chokes: The shotgun accepts Benelli’s Crio system choke tubes. For turkey hunting, a turkey-specific extra-full choke (such as a .555 or .560 constriction) is recommended to achieve tight patterns with lead or TSS shot. The barrel is threaded for standard Crio tubes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does shipping work for this firearm to U.S. addresses?
This shotgun must be shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in your state of residence. We do not ship directly to non-FFL holders. After you place your order, we will ask for a copy of your chosen FFL’s license. Once verified, we ship the firearm via a licensed carrier (UPS or FedEx) with signature required. Standard shipping rates apply within the contiguous United States.
2. What is the FFL transfer process for this Benelli M2?
After purchase, you must select a local FFL dealer to receive the firearm. Provide us with their license information, and we will ship the shotgun to them. You will then visit the dealer to complete a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Form 4473 and pass a background check. The dealer may charge a transfer fee, which is separate from our purchase price. We recommend contacting the FFL beforehand to confirm their willingness to accept the transfer.
3. Is this shotgun compatible with all 20-gauge ammunition?
This shotgun is designed for 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. It will not safely chamber 3.5-inch shells. For reliable cycling, use shells with a minimum velocity of approximately 1200 feet per second. Low-velocity target loads may not cycle the inertia system. Always verify the chambering and test your chosen ammunition before use.
4. What warranty does Benelli provide for the Performance Shop Turkey?
Benelli USA offers a limited warranty for the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty period is typically one year from the date of purchase, but Performance Shop models may have specific terms. We recommend registering your firearm with Benelli USA after purchase. The warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or modifications. Contact Benelli USA directly for warranty claims and service.
5. What is your return policy for this firearm?
Due to federal regulations and safety concerns, we cannot accept returns on firearms after they have left our facility. All firearms are inspected before shipment. If there is a defect or damage upon receipt, contact us immediately. We will work with you and Benelli to address any manufacturing issues under warranty. If the firearm has not been transferred from your FFL, we may be able to process a return or exchange
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