Description
The Benelli M4 has earned a reputation among American firearm owners as a semi-automatic shotgun that meets the demands of home defense, range training, and duty use. With a proven gas-operated system and a collapsible stock, this 12-gauge model offers reliable cycling and handling for shooters who need a shotgun that works under pressure. Whether you are securing your home in a suburban neighborhood or running drills at a local range, the Benelli M4 provides a straightforward, no-nonsense platform.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Benelli 11710 M4 is a semi-automatic, 12-gauge shotgun with an 18.5-inch barrel, ghost ring sights, and a tactical collapsible stock. It is designed for the shooter who requires a shotgun that can serve multiple roles without compromise. This model is suited for home defense, where quick target acquisition and reliable cycling are critical. It also appeals to range shooters who want a durable, low-maintenance shotgun for frequent use. Collectors and law enforcement professionals will recognize the M4 as a platform that has been adopted by military and police units worldwide. This is not a hunting shotgun, though it can be used for certain types of game where a short barrel and fast handling are acceptable. The primary audience includes responsible gun owners who prioritize function over flash, and who value a shotgun that has been tested in real-world conditions.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (2.75-inch and 3-inch shells)
- Capacity: 5+1 rounds (with 2.75-inch shells; 4+1 with 3-inch shells)
- Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
- Overall Length: 39.4 inches (stock extended), 35.4 inches (stock collapsed)
- Weight: 7.8 pounds (unloaded)
- Stock: Collapsible tactical stock with adjustable length of pull
- Sights: Ghost ring rear aperture sight with front blade; Picatinny rail for optics
- Finish: Matte black anodized aluminum receiver; matte black steel barrel
- Action: Semi-automatic, gas-operated with rotating bolt
- Choke: Fixed cylinder bore (may vary; check individual unit)
- Safety: Cross-bolt safety located at the trigger guard
Feature Deep-Dive
The Benelli M4 uses an auto-regulating gas-operated (ARGO) system, which is a dual-piston design that self-adjusts to different ammunition loads. This system cycles reliably with a wide range of 12-gauge shells, from light target loads to heavy 3-inch magnums. The gas system is self-cleaning to an extent, reducing the need for frequent maintenance during extended shooting sessions. For a home defense or duty shotgun, this reliability is a key factor—you can load a mix of shells and expect the action to function without manual adjustment.
The collapsible stock is a defining feature of this model. It allows the shooter to adjust the length of pull from 14.75 inches to 11.75 inches, making the shotgun more maneuverable in tight spaces or when wearing heavy clothing. The stock includes a rubber recoil pad that reduces felt recoil, which is beneficial during rapid fire or when shooting heavier loads. The stock also features a cheek rest that provides a consistent cheek weld, aiding in sight alignment with the ghost ring sights. This adjustability makes the M4 suitable for shooters of different sizes or for situations where the shotgun must be stored compactly.
Ghost ring sights are standard on the Benelli M4, offering a fast and intuitive sight picture. The rear aperture is protected by steel ears, and the front blade is a contrasting red fiber optic insert for low-light visibility. These sights are designed for quick target acquisition at typical defensive distances, but they are also precise enough for slug shooting at longer ranges. The receiver is drilled and tapped, and a Picatinny rail is included for mounting red dot sights or other optics, which many users prefer for faster target engagement.
The 18.5-inch barrel is a standard length for tactical shotguns, balancing handling and ballistics. It is long enough to provide a useful sight radius and velocity for slugs, yet short enough to clear doorways and hallways without difficulty. The barrel is chrome-lined for corrosion resistance and durability, which is important for shotguns that see heavy use or are stored in varied conditions. The fixed cylinder bore choke is typical for this barrel length, allowing the use of any type of shot or slug without worrying about choke restrictions.
The receiver is made from anodized aluminum, which keeps the overall weight manageable at 7.8 pounds. This weight is light enough for carry during extended training sessions but heavy enough to absorb some recoil. The finish is matte black, reducing glare and providing a durable surface that resists wear. The trigger guard is oversized for use with gloves, and the cross-bolt safety is ambidextrous in the sense that it can be operated from either side. The magazine tube is a standard 5+1 capacity, though extended tubes are available as aftermarket upgrades for those who need higher capacity.
Ideal Use Cases
The Benelli M4 is primarily a home defense and duty shotgun. Its collapsible stock, ghost ring sights, and reliable gas system make it well-suited for defending a residence or property. The short barrel and adjustable stock allow for easy handling in confined spaces. For range use, the M4 is a durable platform that can handle high round counts without major issues. It is also a viable option for three-gun competition shooters who prefer a gas-operated shotgun, though the fixed choke and 18.5-inch barrel may limit its use for certain clay sports. This is not a concealed carry shotgun due to its size, nor is it ideal for waterfowl hunting, where longer barrels and interchangeable chokes are standard. However, it can be used for deer hunting with slugs in states that allow shotguns for big game. Collectors will appreciate the M4’s lineage and its adoption by military forces, but this shotgun is built for use, not display.
Compatibility Notes
Ammunition: This shotgun cycles 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. It is recommended to use shells with at least 1,200 fps velocity for reliable cycling, especially during the break-in period. Low-recoil or reduced-velocity target loads may not cycle reliably. Steel shot, buckshot, and slugs are all acceptable, but the fixed cylinder bore means no choke restrictions apply. Avoid using shells with excessive pressure or non-standard lengths.
Holsters and Slings: The Benelli M4 is not typically carried in a holster. A padded sling is recommended for carry, and the stock has sling swivel studs. Many users add a two-point sling for tactical use. There are no specific holster compatibility concerns, as shotguns of this type are generally carried by hand or slung.
Magazines and Accessories: The M4 uses a tubular magazine under the barrel. Aftermarket extended magazine tubes are available from several manufacturers, which can increase capacity to 7+1 or more. Replacement parts such as pistol grips, forends, and optics mounts are widely available. The Picatinny rail on the receiver accepts most red dot sights, holographic sights, and low-power scopes. The barrel is not easily interchangeable with other lengths without professional installation.
Maintenance: The ARGO gas system requires periodic cleaning, especially if using dirty ammunition. The chrome-lined barrel is easy to clean. Standard shotgun cleaning kits and solvents are compatible. The collapsible stock mechanism should be kept free of debris to ensure smooth operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
No. Federal law requires that shotguns be transferred through a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder. We ship to your chosen FFL dealer, and you complete the background check and paperwork there. We do not ship to residential addresses.
2. How does the FFL transfer process work?
After you place an order, we will need the contact information and license details for your chosen FFL dealer. You can provide this during checkout or email it to us. We verify the license and ship the shotgun to that dealer. You then visit the dealer, complete the ATF Form 4473, and pass a NICS background check. The dealer may charge a transfer fee, which is separate from our price.
3. What ammunition is recommended for reliable cycling?
The Benelli M4 cycles best with full-power 12-gauge shells. For 2.75-inch shells, use loads with a minimum of 1,200 fps velocity. 3-inch magnum shells cycle reliably as well. Light target loads under 1,150 fps may not provide enough gas pressure to cycle the action consistently, especially when the shotgun is new. We recommend using standard buck or slug loads for initial break-in.
4. What is the warranty on this shotgun?
Benelli USA provides a limited lifetime warranty for the original owner. This covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or the use of non-standard ammunition. For warranty claims, you would contact Benelli USA directly. We recommend keeping your purchase receipt for warranty registration.
5. What is your return policy for firearms?
All firearm sales are final. We do not accept returns on firearms due to legal restrictions. If there is a manufacturing defect, we will assist you in contacting the manufacturer for warranty service. If the shotgun is damaged in transit, we will work with the carrier to file a claim. Please inspect the firearm at your FFL dealer before accepting the transfer.
Closing Call to Action
The Benelli M4 is a semi-automatic shotgun that has proven itself in demanding environments. It is available now at csfirearms.com. We ship to FFL dealers across the United States. If you have questions about the transfer process or compatibility, contact our team. Add this shotgun to your cart to begin the purchase process.
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