Benelli 11710 M4 18.5″ 12GA – Tactical Stock Ghost Ring Sights Shotgun

Description

The Benelli M4 has earned its reputation through rigorous field testing and real-world use by military and law enforcement agencies across the United States. For the American shooter who demands a semi-automatic 12-gauge that cycles reliably under adverse conditions—whether defending a rural property in Texas, serving as a patrol shotgun for a county sheriff’s office, or holding the line during a three-gun match—this 18.5-inch barreled model with ghost ring sights and a tactical collapsible stock offers a proven platform. It is a tool built for consistent performance, not for show.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

The Benelli 11710 M4 is a semi-automatic, gas-operated 12-gauge shotgun chambered for 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. It is designed for shooters who require a compact, maneuverable firearm that can handle defensive, duty, and competitive applications. This specific configuration—an 18.5-inch barrel, ghost ring sights, and a tactical collapsible stock—targets three primary user groups: homeowners seeking a reliable defensive shotgun, law enforcement officers or security professionals needing a duty-grade firearm, and competitive shooters in disciplines like three-gun or tactical shotgun matches. Hunters may also find it suitable for upland birds or waterfowl in dense cover, though its primary design leans toward close-quarters reliability. Collectors will appreciate its lineage as the military-proven M1014 platform, but this is first and foremost a working shotgun.

Key Specifications Breakdown

• Model: Benelli M4 (Model 11710)
• Gauge: 12 Gauge (2.75-inch and 3-inch shells)
• Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
• Overall Length: 35.5 inches (stock collapsed); 39.75 inches (stock extended)
• Weight: Approximately 8.4 pounds (unloaded)
• Capacity: 5+1 rounds (2.75-inch shells); 4+1 rounds (3-inch shells)
• Stock: Collapsible tactical stock with adjustable length of pull (LOP) and cheek rest
• Sights: Ghost ring rear aperture with a front blade sight, both fully adjustable for windage and elevation
• Receiver: Anodized aluminum alloy with a matte black finish
• Barrel Finish: Phosphate-coated steel with a matte black exterior
• Choke System: Fixed cylinder bore (improved cylinder for most 2.75-inch loads)
• Action: Benelli’s patented Auto-Regulating Gas-Operated (ARGO) system
• Safety: Cross-bolt button, located at the rear of the trigger guard
• Made In: Italy

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli M4’s ARGO system is the defining feature that separates it from other semi-automatic shotguns. Unlike traditional gas systems that use a single large piston, the ARGO system employs two small, stainless steel pistons located near the chamber. These pistons are self-cleaning and self-regulating, meaning they adjust gas pressure automatically to cycle a wide range of ammunition—from low-recoil target loads to high-pressure 3-inch magnum buckshot. This design reduces fouling buildup in the action, which is a common failure point in other gas-operated shotguns. For the end user, this translates to fewer malfunctions during extended strings of fire, whether at the range or in a defensive scenario.

The collapsible stock is another critical feature for adaptability. It offers four length-of-position settings, allowing the shooter to adjust the stock from a compact 35.5 inches to a full 39.75 inches. This is particularly useful for shooters who need to store the shotgun in a vehicle, safe, or tight space, or for those who wear bulky body armor or heavy winter clothing. The stock also includes a raised cheek rest that aligns the shooter’s eye naturally with the ghost ring sights, reducing the need for head adjustment. The recoil pad is a soft rubber design that mitigates felt recoil, making it easier to stay on target during rapid follow-up shots.

The ghost ring sight system is a notable upgrade over a standard bead sight. The rear aperture is a large, 0.110-inch diameter opening that allows for quick target acquisition in low-light conditions, while the front blade is a bright, high-contrast post. Both sights are fully adjustable for windage and elevation, so you can zero the shotgun to your preferred load. This is a significant advantage for shooters who use slugs for hunting or defensive purposes, as it provides a precise aiming reference at distances beyond 50 yards. The sight assembly is also protected by sturdy steel ears, preventing damage if the shotgun is dropped or bumped against hard surfaces.

The receiver is machined from a solid block of anodized aluminum alloy, which keeps the overall weight manageable while providing a rigid platform for the action. The bolt is a rotating-head design that locks into the barrel extension, a feature more commonly found on rifles than shotguns. This locking mechanism contributes to the M4’s ability to handle high-pressure loads without excessive bolt velocity, which in turn reduces wear on internal components. The bolt handle is oversized and serrated, making it easy to manipulate with gloved hands or under stress. The bolt release button is similarly oversized and located on the left side of the receiver, allowing for quick reloads without breaking your firing grip.

The barrel is 18.5 inches long with a fixed cylinder bore choke. This choke is ideal for defensive loads such as buckshot and slugs, as it provides a consistent pattern without the need to change chokes. The phosphate coating inside the barrel resists corrosion and fouling, which is beneficial for shooters who may not clean their shotgun immediately after use. The magazine tube is a four-round capacity design, and the shotgun ships with a plug for states with magazine capacity restrictions. The loading port is beveled and slightly opened, making it easier to load shells quickly during competition or under duress. The trigger guard is enlarged to accommodate gloved fingers, and the cross-bolt safety is positioned for easy access with either hand.

Finally, the overall build quality reflects Benelli’s manufacturing standards. The M4 is assembled in Italy using precision-machined components, and each shotgun is test-fired before leaving the factory. The finish is a durable matte black that resists scratches and corrosion, suitable for humid environments or frequent handling. The stock and forend are constructed from a high-impact polymer that withstands temperature extremes and physical abuse. For the shooter who plans to use this shotgun hard—whether in a patrol car, a duck blind, or a home defense scenario—the M4 is built to endure that use without requiring frequent maintenance or part replacement.

Ideal Use Cases

• Home Defense: The 18.5-inch barrel and collapsible stock make the M4 easy to maneuver in hallways and doorways. The ghost ring sights and 5+1 capacity provide a reliable platform for stopping threats at close range. Use with 00 buckshot for maximum effect.
• Law Enforcement / Duty Use: The M4 is a standard-issue shotgun for many U.S. police departments and federal agencies. The ARGO system cycles reliably with less-lethal rounds, buckshot, and slugs, making it a versatile tool for patrol officers.
• Competition Shooting: Three-gun and tactical shotgun shooters benefit from the fast cycling, adjustable stock, and ghost ring sights. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps the shotgun balanced for transitions between targets.
• Hunting: While not ideal for long-range waterfowl due to the fixed cylinder bore, the M4 is effective for upland birds, deer hunting with slugs (in states where allowed), and predator control in thick brush.
• Range Training: The M4’s reliability with target loads makes it a good choice for high-volume practice sessions. The adjustable stock allows multiple shooters to share the same shotgun with quick length-of-pull changes.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: The M4 cycles 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. It functions best with high-brass loads (1200+ fps) but will cycle standard target loads once broken in. Avoid using subsonic or low-recoil ammunition without testing first. Steel shot is acceptable for hunting, though the fixed cylinder bore may produce wider patterns.
• Accessories: The receiver is drilled and tapped for a Picatinny rail (sold separately) if you wish to mount optics. The collapsible stock accepts aftermarket cheek risers and recoil pads. Magazine tube extensions are available from Benelli and third-party manufacturers, but note that adding a tube extension may require a new spring and follower. The forend can be replaced with aftermarket options that include M-LOK slots for lights or foregrips.
• Holsters and Slings: The M4 is a full-size shotgun and is not designed for concealed carry. It accepts standard shotgun slings with 1.25-inch swivels. A side-saddle shell carrier or buttstock shell holder is recommended for extra ammunition storage.
• Parts and Service: Benelli offers a comprehensive parts catalog through authorized dealers. Because the M4 is widely used by military and law enforcement, aftermarket support is extensive, including recoil-reducing stocks, magazine extensions, and trigger upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you ship this Benelli M4 to my address in the United States?
A: We ship to all 50 states, but only to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in your state. We cannot ship directly to a residential address. Once your order is placed, we will request a copy of your chosen FFL’s license and ship the firearm via a common carrier. You will need to pass a NICS background check at the FFL location before taking possession.

Q: How does the FFL transfer process work when I order from CSF Armaments?
A: After you place your order, you will receive an email asking you to provide the name and contact information of your chosen FFL dealer. If you do not have an FFL, you can locate one locally (many gun shops, pawn shops, and sporting goods stores offer transfer services for a fee). We will contact the dealer to verify their license and arrange shipment. The firearm will be shipped to them, and you will complete the transfer paperwork and background check at their location. Please confirm with your FFL that they accept shipments from online retailers before ordering.

Q: What kind of ammunition can I use in the Benelli M4?
A: The M4 is chambered for 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. It is compatible with birdshot, buckshot, slugs, and most defensive loads. For best reliability, use ammunition with a velocity of at least 1200 feet