Description
The Benelli Performance Shop M2 Turkey, chambered in 12 gauge with a 24-inch barrel and finished in Bottomland Camo, is a specialized firearm built for the specific demands of turkey hunting across U.S. woodlands and fields. For hunters who require a shotgun that cycles reliably in variable conditions and delivers consistent patterning at typical turkey ranges, this model offers a purpose-built solution. Whether you are pursuing Easterns in the hardwoods of Georgia or Rio Grandes in the open country of Texas, this shotgun is engineered to perform when it matters most.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Benelli Performance Shop M2 Turkey is a semi-automatic shotgun designed by Benelli’s Performance Shop, a division that focuses on refining factory models with competition and hunting-specific enhancements. This particular variant is intended for turkey hunters who prioritize fast follow-up shots, reduced recoil, and repeatable accuracy with magnum loads. While it shares the M2’s reliable inertia-driven action, the Performance Shop treatment adds features like a specialized stock, enhanced sighting system, and optimized barrel porting. This shotgun is not a general-purpose field gun; it is a dedicated tool for the turkey woods, suitable for experienced hunters who demand precision from a lightweight, fast-handling platform. It is also appropriate for collectors who appreciate limited-production Performance Shop models, though its primary function remains hunting.
Key Specifications Breakdown
- Gauge: 12 Gauge (2.75” and 3” shells)
- Action: Inertia-driven semi-automatic
- Barrel Length: 24 inches
- Chamber: 3 inches (accepts 2.75” and 3” shells)
- Finish: Bottomland Camo (cerakote and camo dip over synthetic components)
- Stock: Synthetic with Performance Shop turkey-specific comb and recoil pad
- Weight: Approximately 6.5 to 7.0 pounds (unloaded, depending on configuration)
- Sights: Fiber optic front sight (red or green, factory-installed); drilled and tapped for optic mounts
- Capacity: 3+1 (plugged for migratory bird compliance; can be unplugged for full capacity)
- Chokes: Includes extended turkey chokes (typically Extra Full and Full patterns)
- Receiver: Aluminum alloy with Bottomland Camo finish
- Length of Pull: 14.0 to 14.5 inches (adjustable via shims)
Feature Deep-Dive
The Benelli Performance Shop M2 Turkey is built around the company’s proven inertia-driven operating system, which uses recoil energy to cycle the action. This system eliminates the need for gas pistons, O-rings, or complex springs, reducing the number of parts that can fail in dusty, muddy, or cold conditions. For turkey hunters who often sit in leaves, dirt, and morning dew, this reliability is a practical advantage. The inertia system also keeps the receiver cleaner and lighter than gas-operated alternatives, which contributes to the shotgun’s manageable weight during long walks to a setup.
The 24-inch barrel is a deliberate choice for turkey hunting. Shorter barrels allow for faster target acquisition in dense cover, while still providing enough length to achieve tight patterns with turkey-specific loads. The barrel is ported near the muzzle, which helps reduce muzzle rise and felt recoil when firing heavy 3-inch magnum shells. This porting, combined with the Performance Shop’s extended choke tubes, allows the shooter to maintain sight picture through the shot, which is critical for placing the pattern on a turkey’s head and neck. The barrel is also cryogenically treated in the Performance Shop process, which is said to relieve stress in the steel and improve consistency.
The Bottomland Camo finish is applied to both the synthetic stock and the metal surfaces, providing a matte, non-reflective surface that blends into a variety of woodland environments. The stock features an adjustable comb that allows the shooter to raise or lower the cheek piece for proper alignment with the fiber optic sights or a red dot optic. This is particularly useful for turkey hunters who use optics, as it ensures a consistent cheek weld. The stock also includes a gel-filled recoil pad that reduces perceived recoil, making extended shooting sessions more comfortable.
The Performance Shop M2 Turkey comes with an oversized bolt handle and a larger bolt release button, both of which are easier to manipulate with gloved hands. These are small but practical upgrades for hunters who may be wearing gloves in cold weather or handling the shotgun in dim light. The trigger is also tuned in the Performance Shop, offering a cleaner break with less creep than a standard M2 trigger. While the exact pull weight is not factory-stated, experienced shooters will notice the improvement in trigger feel compared to production models.
This shotgun is also drilled and tapped for a scope base or red dot mount, which is standard on many dedicated turkey guns. The factory fiber optic front sight provides a bright aiming point for quick shots, but many hunters will opt to install a low-power red dot for precise pattern placement. The receiver is made from lightweight aluminum, which helps keep the overall weight down without sacrificing durability. The entire firearm is designed to withstand the corrosive effects of moisture and cleaning solvents, thanks to the camo finish and anodized aluminum components.
Ideal Use Cases
This shotgun is purpose-built for turkey hunting, and that is where it excels. The 24-inch barrel, tight chokes, and adjustable stock make it suitable for hunters who set up decoys, use calls, and take shots from 20 to 45 yards. The fast cycling action allows for quick follow-up shots if a bird is not immediately downed. While it can be used for waterfowl hunting with appropriate non-toxic shot and choke changes, the Bottomland Camo and short barrel are more optimized for upland and turkey environments. This model is not intended for home defense, concealed carry, or competition shooting—its design priorities are entirely focused on spring and fall turkey seasons.
Compatibility Notes
This shotgun cycles reliably with 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells. For turkey hunting, 3-inch magnum loads with #4, #5, or #6 shot are recommended to achieve dense patterns. The included extended chokes are designed for lead shot; if using steel or other non-toxic shot for waterfowl, confirm choke compatibility with the manufacturer. The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Benelli scope bases, and a variety of aftermarket red dot mounts are available. The synthetic stock accepts standard Benelli M2 aftermarket accessories, including sling swivels and shell carriers. Holsters are not applicable for this model; a soft or hard case is recommended for transport and storage.
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 be transferred to another FFL dealer in your state. We ship this shotgun to your chosen FFL dealer, and you must complete a background check and all applicable state and local paperwork before taking possession. We do not ship firearms directly to residential addresses.
2. How does the FFL transfer process work?
After placing your order, you will need to provide us with the contact information of a licensed FFL dealer in your area who is willing to accept the transfer. We will ship the shotgun to that dealer. You should contact the dealer ahead of time to confirm their transfer fees and any specific requirements they have. Once the firearm arrives, you will visit the dealer, complete the ATF Form 4473, and pass a background check (NICS) to complete the transfer.
3. What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
This shotgun is chambered for 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. It will cycle most target loads and hunting loads within those lengths, but it is optimized for heavier loads (1.25 oz and above) for reliable inertia cycling. Light target loads (1 oz or less) may not generate enough recoil to cycle the action consistently. For turkey hunting, 3-inch magnum shells are recommended for best pattern performance.
4. What warranty does Benelli offer on this Performance Shop model?
Benelli provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. The Performance Shop models carry the same warranty as standard Benelli shotguns, though any modifications made by the owner may void coverage. We recommend registering your shotgun with Benelli after purchase to facilitate any warranty claims. Normal wear and tear, misuse, or improper maintenance are not covered.
5. What is your return policy for this firearm?
Due to federal regulations, all firearm sales are final once the background check is initiated and the firearm is transferred to your FFL dealer. If the firearm arrives with a manufacturer defect, we will work with you and Benelli to facilitate a repair or replacement under warranty. We cannot accept returns for change of mind, cosmetic preferences, or ammunition-related issues. Please inspect the firearm thoroughly at your FFL dealer before completing the transfer.
The Benelli Performance Shop M2 Turkey is a focused tool for hunters who want a reliable, lightweight shotgun that patterns tight and cycles fast. We ship this model to licensed FFL dealers across all 50 U.S. states where legal. If you have questions about compatibility with your local regulations or need assistance finding a nearby FFL, contact our team. We are here to help you complete your purchase with confidence.
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