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

Description

The Benelli M4 stands as a semi-automatic shotgun engineered for professionals and discerning firearm owners. For U.S. residents seeking a reliable platform for home defense, range training, or duty use, the model 11710 with its 18.5-inch barrel, tactical stock, and ghost ring sights offers a proven combination of speed, durability, and accuracy. This is a firearm built to perform under stress, not a novelty item.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

The Benelli M4 (model 11710) is a 12-gauge, semi-automatic shotgun featuring a fixed 18.5-inch barrel, a collapsible tactical stock, and factory-installed ghost ring sights. It is designed for shooters who require a fast-handling, reliable firearm for home defense, law enforcement patrol, or practical shotgun training. This model also appeals to collectors who value the M4’s military and law enforcement pedigree, as well as target shooters who want a durable, low-recoil semi-auto for range sessions. It is not optimized for hunting or concealed carry due to its barrel length and overall size.

Key Specifications

• Caliber: 12 Gauge (2.75-inch and 3-inch shells)
• Action: Semi-automatic, inertia-driven (Benelli Auto-Regulating Gas-Operated system)
• Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
• Overall Length: 39.75 inches (stock extended) / 35.5 inches (stock collapsed)
• Weight: Approximately 8.4 pounds (unloaded)
• Capacity: 5+1 (2.75-inch shells) / 4+1 (3-inch shells) with factory magazine tube
• Stock: Collapsible tactical stock with pistol grip and adjustable length of pull
• Sights: Ghost ring rear aperture with red front post, adjustable for windage and elevation
• Finish: Matte black anodized aluminum receiver and synthetic components
• Choke: Fixed cylinder bore (improved cylinder available as a factory option on some variants)
• Receiver Material: Aluminum alloy
• Safety: Cross-bolt safety located at the rear of the trigger guard

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli M4’s operating system is its defining characteristic. Unlike many semi-automatic shotguns that rely on gas pistons and complex moving parts, the M4 uses Benelli’s Auto-Regulating Gas-Operated (ARGO) system. This system features two stainless steel gas pistons that cycle the action, self-cleaning as they move, which reduces fouling buildup and maintenance requirements. The result is a firearm that cycles a wide range of ammunition, from light target loads to heavy 3-inch magnum shells, without manual adjustment. This reliability is a primary reason the M4 was adopted by the U.S. Marine Corps as the M1014 Joint Service Combat Shotgun.

The tactical stock on this model is a collapsible unit with a pistol grip, offering three positions for length of pull adjustment. This allows the shooter to tailor the fit for different body types, clothing layers, or tactical scenarios. The stock also includes a rubber recoil pad that, combined with the inertia-driven system, reduces felt recoil significantly compared to fixed-breech pump-action shotguns. The pistol grip provides a more natural hand angle for controlled rapid fire, while the collapsible feature makes the overall length shorter for storage or close-quarters handling.

Ghost ring sights are a significant upgrade over a standard bead sight. The rear aperture with a large ring allows for rapid target acquisition, while the red front post provides a clear aiming point in various lighting conditions. These sights are fully adjustable for windage and elevation, enabling precise shot placement at typical defensive distances. The sight plane is also elevated, which helps align the shooter’s eye naturally with the barrel. For shooters who prefer optics, the receiver is drilled and tapped for mounting a Picatinny rail for red dot sights or other optics.

The 18.5-inch barrel strikes a balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. It is long enough to provide a stable sight picture and consistent pattern with defensive buckshot loads, yet short enough to navigate doorways and hallways without excessive length. The fixed cylinder bore choke is standard for this barrel length, delivering a wide pattern suitable for close-range engagements. The barrel is also chrome-lined for corrosion resistance and longevity, a feature that matters for shooters who fire high volumes of shells or store the firearm in varying conditions.

Build quality is a hallmark of the Benelli M4. The receiver is machined from a solid block of aluminum alloy, which keeps weight manageable while providing structural integrity. All internal components are made from corrosion-resistant materials, including stainless steel for the gas pistons and bolt. The synthetic forend and stock are impact-resistant and do not swell or warp in humid environments. This level of construction means the M4 can withstand harsh use without requiring constant lubrication or cleaning, though regular maintenance is still recommended for optimal function.

Capacity is another practical consideration. The factory magazine tube holds five 2.75-inch shells or four 3-inch shells, plus one in the chamber. This is adequate for most defensive scenarios, but the tube is designed to accept extended magazines from Benelli or third-party manufacturers if additional capacity is needed. The loading port is beveled for easier reloading under stress, and the bolt release is positioned for ambidextrous operation. The cross-bolt safety is located at the rear of the trigger guard, accessible without shifting the firing grip.

Ideal Use Cases

• Home Defense: The M4’s semi-automatic action allows for quick follow-up shots, while the tactical stock and ghost ring sights facilitate fast target engagement in confined spaces. The 18.5-inch barrel and collapsible stock improve maneuverability.
• Range Training: The M4 cycles light target loads reliably, making it suitable for practice sessions without excessive recoil. The adjustable sights allow for zeroing at various distances.
• Patrol / Duty Use: This shotgun is used by military and law enforcement agencies worldwide. Its durability, reliability, and capacity make it a viable option for security personnel or armed professionals.
• Collecting: The M4’s status as a military-issue firearm and its advanced operating system make it a notable addition to any collection of modern tactical shotguns.

This model is not recommended for hunting due to the fixed cylinder bore and short barrel, which limit effective range for waterfowl or upland game. It is also not concealable for personal protection outside the home.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: The M4 cycles 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells reliably. It will function with light target loads (1,200 fps or higher) and all standard defensive loads (buckshot, slugs). Very low-velocity competition loads may not cycle consistently. We recommend using quality ammunition from manufacturers such as Federal, Remington, Winchester, or Fiocchi.
• Holsters: No holsters are available for this full-size shotgun. Slings are the primary carry method. The stock has sling swivel studs, and the forend accepts a sling mount.
• Magazines: Factory 5-round tube is standard. Extended tubes from Benelli (7-round) or aftermarket manufacturers (e.g., Nordic Components, Carrier Comp) are compatible but require modification of the magazine spring and follower. Check local laws regarding magazine capacity for shotguns.
• Accessories: The receiver is drilled and tapped for a Picatinny rail. Ghost ring sights are factory-installed and can be replaced with aftermarket optics if desired. The barrel accepts standard Benelli M4 chokes (cylinder bore is fixed on this model; other barrels with interchangeable chokes are available separately).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
No. Federal law requires that all firearms shipped from a licensed FFL dealer (like us) must be transferred to another FFL dealer in your state. After purchase, we will ship the Benelli M4 to the FFL dealer you designate. You will then complete a background check (Form 4473) and pay any applicable transfer fees at that dealer before taking possession. We only ship to FFLs within the United States.

2. How does the FFL transfer process work?
After placing your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer. Your dealer must send us a copy of their valid FFL license. Once we verify the license and process your payment, we ship the firearm via a common carrier (UPS or FedEx) to that dealer. The dealer will contact you when the firearm arrives. You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID and pass the NICS background check to complete the transfer. Some states have additional waiting periods or requirements; it is your responsibility to know your local laws.

3. What ammunition can I use in this shotgun?
This shotgun is chambered for 12-gauge shells with a chamber length of 3 inches. It will fire both 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. We recommend using factory-loaded ammunition with a velocity of at least 1,200 fps for reliable cycling. Steel shot, lead shot, and slugs are all acceptable, provided they are within the pressure limits of the firearm. Do not use ammunition with a velocity below 1,100 fps, as it may not produce enough gas pressure to cycle the action.

4. Does Benelli offer a warranty on this shotgun?
Yes. Benelli USA provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the firearm. It does not cover normal wear and tear, damage from misuse, or unauthorized modifications. To make a warranty claim, you must contact Benelli USA directly with proof of purchase. We recommend registering your firearm on the Benelli website after purchase to facilitate any future warranty service.

5. What is your return policy for firearms?
All firearm sales are final once the firearm leaves our inventory. Due to federal regulations, we cannot accept returns on firearms for change of mind or cosmetic preferences. If your firearm arrives with a defect or damage from shipping, you must contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with you and the manufacturer to resolve the issue, which may include a repair or replacement under warranty. We do not charge restocking fees on exchanges for manufacturer defects, but the customer is responsible for shipping costs to the manufacturer for warranty work.

Ordering and Shipping Information

This Benelli M4 is available for purchase and ships to FFL dealers across the United States. We do not ship to P.O. boxes, international addresses, or states where this model is prohibited by law. All orders are processed within one business day, and shipping typically takes 3–7 business days to your chosen FFL