Breaking through the firearm market with modifications and advancements, the revamped Benelli M2 takes center stage. Here, we offer a comprehensive dissection and review of this updated shotgun. Covered at the SHOT SHOW expo this year, the Benelli M2 piqued interest with its impressive changes and elegant design.
With more updates from Benelli on the horizon, let’s take a look into the transformation of the M2, and its cousin, the Montefeltro.
Overview of the Updated Benelli M2
With a current market price of $1,399, the 2023 Benelli M2 modification comes cheaper than expected, thanks to a deal from Reeds. Designed for hunting and sports shooting, the new M2 has replaced the Montefeltro as the most affordable semi-automatic option by Benelli. Any new shotgun purchase from Reeds priced $500 and above avails a FREE case of Federal Ammo!
Quick Specs:
- 12 gauge (20 gauge available);
- Inertia Driven;
- 3 Crio chokes – replaceable with a Carlsons Choke Tube for customization;
- 3″ chamber and 28″ Barrel (24″ and 26″ available);
- Weight: 6lbs 12oz;
- 14 3/8″ Length of pull (Flexible with different-sized recoil pads);
- 1 3/8″ Drop at comb;
- 2 3/8″ Drop at heel;
- Includes a shim kit to adjust the drop and cast.
Trigger and Ergonomics
Boasting a crisp trigger that is comfortably weighted at 6lbs 6.2oz (average pull weight), the new M2’s design delivers a smooth shooting experience. The synthetic stock has replaced the original comfort-tech system, presenting an upgraded micro-cell recoil pad.
The air-touch texturing of the pistol grip and the ribbed forend bring considerable change from the original M2. The redesign of the forend cap provides an excellent grip that can be easily removed. The modern-looking receiver gives a nod to the Benelli Ethos design. The M2 receiver is however one solid piece, unlike the Ethos’ two independent pieces.
Recoil and Reliability
Being light and inertia-driven, the M2 naturally has greater felt recoil. However, thanks to its design, the recoil goes straight back into the shoulder and doesn’t feel too uncomfortable. Through our tests, we noticed a few issues with the last shot not feeding or firing completely, reminding us that speed shooting may not be this gun’s strong suit. Nonetheless, for regular shooting, this gun proves reliable.
Breakdown and Quality of Build
The M2 exhibits simplicity in its breakdown; the barrel and forend come off as one piece very easily. One minor issue is the difficulty in removing the bolt handle, which may require pliers. Despite being an entry-level model, the M2’s attention to detail makes it seem like a top-tier shotgun.
Speed Shooting
An essential performance evaluation is speeding shooting, testing the overall usability of the gun. With a professional trick-shooter providing insight, we found that the M2’s fastest split came in at .16 seconds, an impressive accomplishment. Rainfall impacted timings, but the overall performance of the redesigned M2 left us pleased.
Advanced Features of the Benelli M2:
- The loading port cutout on the new M2 is much more dramatic, promising easier loading;
- It possesses a more solid recoil pad, although it lacks flexibility;
- The bolt release has evolved into a pill-type shape, a decent upgrade from the circle button;
- The bolt and bolt handle have been completely reimagined, resembling the Ethos’ design;
- The easy-to-spot red follower in the magazine indicates clearly when it’s empty;
- Safety is still maintained by a cross-bolt behind the trigger.
Pricing and Value for Money
Despite being touted as a ‘price-point’ model, the new M2 commands a respectable $1,300 on the market today. But considering its design enhancements, improved ergonomics, and potential shooting power, it can be argued that the M2 offers value proportionate to its price.
Benelli M2 Key Takeaways
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | Modern and ergonomic with texturing called ‘air-touch’ and redesigned forend cap. |
| Trigger | Crisp and comfortably weighted (Average pull weight: 6lbs 6.2oz). |
| Price | $1,399 – but can be bought for less from Reeds. |
| Purpose | Primarily designed for hunting and sports shooting. |
| Specifications | Comes in 12 and 20-gauge options with a 3″ chamber and 28″ barrel. Includes 3 Crio chokes but can be customized with a Carlsons Choke Tube. |
| Weight and Dimensions | Weights 6lbs 12oz with 14 3/8″ Length of Pull and Drop at Comb and Heel measuring 1 3/8″ and 2 3/8″ respectively. |
| Recoil | Relatively higher due to light weight and inertia-driven mechanism. |
| Reliability | Proves reliable for regular shooting but can face issues during speed shooting. |
| Breakdown | Simple and easy process. The bolt handle might be tough to remove. |
| Speed Shooting | Managed fastest split time with .16 seconds. Performed well in rainy conditions too. |
| Advanced Features | Notably, the redesigned bolt and bolt handle, pill-shaped bolt release, more prominent loading port cutout, and visible red follower in the magazine. |
| Market Standing | Although touted as a ‘price-point’ model, its design enhancements and shooting power make it worth the price. |
Conclusion
Undeniably, the revamped Benelli M2 brings forth a fresh perspective in both design and functionality. From its improved ergonomics to its detailed features and speed shooting capabilities, it represents a robust and reliable choice for sporting and hunting purposes. While the M2 may not be perfect for speed shooting, it achieves a balance, offering satisfactory recoil management and usability.
The newly updated model boasts a range of improvements that elevate it above its predecessor, delivering a more satisfying and efficient shooting experience. Its enhanced ergonomics, modern and sleek design, as well as robust capabilities, make it worth considering for hunting or sports shooting purposes.
Despite some minor speed shooting drawbacks and a slightly higher recoil, the Benelli M2 leaves a positive impression overall, offering a well-rounded and high-quality firearm. Its price point, while slightly higher, is justified by the upgrades and the quality promise of Benelli. The inclusion of unique features such as the ‘air-touch’ gripping, redesigned bolt, and prominent loading port cutout set the M2 apart in this competitive market.
In conclusion, whether you’re a casual shooter, an avid hunter, or a sports shooting enthusiast, you will find the updated Benelli M2 a worthy investment. It holds its ground as a robust, reliable, and noteworthy shotgun that adds value to your shooting experience.