A Look at the Legend: Understanding the Benelli M4
History and Development
The Benelli M4 isn’t just a shotgun; it’s a legend forged in the fires of military combat. Its development can be traced back to a clear requirement within the United States Marine Corps, who sought a reliable and potent semi-automatic shotgun for close-quarters combat and tactical situations. The result was the M4, a weapon designed to endure the harshest environments and perform flawlessly when lives are on the line. This genesis explains the M4’s robust build and its reputation for unwavering reliability. It was designed from the ground up to exceed expectations, and it has consistently delivered, earning its place as a benchmark for semi-auto shotgun performance.
Key Features and Specifications
One of the key features contributing to the M4’s success is its unique operating system: the Auto Regulating Gas Operated (ARGO) system. Unlike inertia-driven systems, the ARGO system taps into the energy from the expanding gases generated by the fired cartridge to cycle the action. This design has several advantages. It allows the M4 to handle a wider range of ammunition types, from low-recoil target loads to high-powered buckshot or slugs, without malfunctions. The ARGO system also contributes to the M4’s renowned reliability, even under extreme conditions where other systems might falter. It’s an exceptionally efficient system that gives the M4 a significant advantage.
The M4 is typically chambered in 12 gauge, the most common shotgun caliber. Barrel lengths vary, and users often customize their M4 to fit their needs. The standard magazine capacity, though potentially modifiable, allows for rapid follow-up shots, a crucial asset in tactical or self-defense scenarios. Beyond its inherent features, the M4 typically offers robust operating controls, including ambidextrous safety switches, bolt release, and magazine release. These features allow the user to operate the firearm quickly and confidently in stressful conditions.
The M4 also provides options for customization and accessory attachment. Although the aftermarket for the M4 can be slightly more restrictive than that for the M2, there are still a variety of stocks, forends, sights, and optics mounting solutions that significantly expand its functionality and user experience.
Pros of the M4
The M4’s advantages are numerous, but two stand out. The first is its exceptional reliability. The ARGO system combined with rugged construction, allows the M4 to operate flawlessly even when exposed to the most adverse conditions. Secondly, the M4 is built like a tank. Its robust build quality and materials give it a substantial advantage over other semi-automatic shotguns in terms of durability.
Cons of the M4
Despite its many strengths, the M4 is not without its drawbacks. One of the primary considerations is the higher price point, making it a significant investment. Additionally, some find its recoil slightly more noticeable compared to the M2. Finally, while it can be customized, some modifications might require more specialized parts, or careful attention to regulations, because of its military heritage and function.
The M2: A Civilian-Focused Contender
History and Development
The Benelli M2 is the other powerhouse in the Benelli shotgun lineage. The M2 represents a shift in design philosophy. Its design prioritizes ease of use, simplicity, and lighter weight than the heavier and even more rugged M4. The M2 is built to excel in roles where maneuverability, speed, and overall versatility are paramount. Its popularity with sport shooters and hunters speaks volumes about its capabilities.
Key Features and Specifications
Unlike the ARGO system of the M4, the M2 employs an inertia-driven operating system. This system uses the recoil energy from the fired cartridge to cycle the action. The bolt head contains an inertia spring which is compressed as the shotgun recoils. When the action is clear, the spring decompresses, cycling the action and extracting the fired shell, feeding a fresh round from the magazine, and making the M2 ready to fire. Inertia-driven systems have a distinct advantage: they’re inherently simpler and easier to maintain compared to gas-operated designs. This simpler construction often translates to lighter weight and greater overall reliability.
The M2 is offered in a variety of chamberings, including the common 12 gauge and the lighter, less-recoiling 20 gauge. Barrel lengths are available to match the intended purpose, and the magazine capacity, while usually smaller than the M4 out-of-the-box, is adaptable with aftermarket parts. The overall length and weight are usually less than the M4. This often makes it a more desirable choice for shooters who are more accustomed to smaller firearms or prefer quicker handling. The standard operating controls are very similar to the M4, allowing for intuitive manipulation of the weapon.
The M2’s versatility extends to its diverse range of variants. You can find field versions optimized for hunting, tactical models tailored for self-defense, and competition-ready shotguns purpose-built for speed and accuracy.
The M2’s Benefits
The M2’s core strengths lies in its lighter weight. This increased maneuverability makes it a comfortable choice for shooters of all sizes and allows for faster target transitions. The M2’s design translates to a lower price point, allowing many potential buyers to access Benelli’s proven performance. Its simpler design often translates into easy disassembly, cleaning, and maintenance. Finally, the inertia system allows for incredibly fast follow-up shots, meaning the M2 is highly competitive.
The M2’s Potential Downsides
The M2’s lighter weight may result in a slight increase in felt recoil, which can become noticeable during extended shooting sessions. Because of its operating mechanism, the M2 can sometimes be less tolerant of a wider variety of ammunition types than the M4. Finally, the inertia system can be susceptible to “limp-wristing,” a technique where the shooter doesn’t firmly support the shotgun, which can potentially lead to malfunctions.
Direct Comparison: M4 vs M2
Reliability Head-to-Head
Both the M4 and M2 are renowned for their reliability, but the M4’s ARGO system gives it a slight edge in extremely challenging conditions. The M4 has proven itself in the harshest environments imaginable. The ARGO system’s ability to handle a wider range of ammunition types also contributes to its superior performance. While the M2 is reliable with high-quality ammunition, the M4’s ARGO system has fewer sensitivities and is usually slightly more consistent. The M4 is therefore a slight step above the M2 in terms of reliability.
Feel and the Mechanics of Shooting
The M4 typically exhibits a slightly firmer recoil impulse than the M2, although both are relatively soft-recoiling for shotguns. The felt recoil is highly subjective. The M4’s heavier build helps mitigate felt recoil, resulting in a more comfortable shooting experience for some. The M2’s inertia system has less complexity, resulting in fast cycling times. The M2’s inertia system also creates a different recoil impulse. The M2 feels less “pushy” than the M4. The M2 is generally easier to manage.
Ergonomics and the User Experience
Both shotguns feature a range of ergonomic options. The stocks on both guns can often be exchanged, modified, and customized, which allows the user to tailor the gun to their specific preferences. The operating controls, which include safety, bolt release, and magazine release, are often similarly positioned and easily accessible on both models. The M2 typically enjoys a slight advantage due to its lighter weight and potentially more streamlined forend design. Both shotguns are easy to shoulder and aim.
Customization and Accessory Support
The aftermarket for both the M4 and M2 is robust. However, the M2 might enjoy a slight advantage here, as it is arguably a more popular platform for competition shooting. This means there are more readily available customization options, from stocks and forends to optics mounts and extended magazine tubes. While the M4 does enjoy a strong aftermarket, some parts are harder to source, especially if you are trying to maintain compliance with specific state or local laws.
Price Considerations
The M2 typically has a lower price point. Its simpler design and wider production volumes contribute to its greater accessibility. The M4 represents a more significant investment, reflecting its military-grade construction and more complex ARGO system. Consider your budget and the value you place on specific features when making your selection. Both shotguns offer high performance and are a good value.
The Perfect Shotgun for Different Roles
Home Defense Dynamics
For home defense, the M4 often gets the nod due to its superior reliability and robust construction. Its ARGO system’s ability to handle various ammunition types, combined with its ruggedness, provides a significant advantage when reliability and confidence are paramount. However, the M2 is also an excellent choice. Its lighter weight and easier handling can make it a better fit for shooters who are sensitive to recoil or prefer a more maneuverable shotgun.
Law Enforcement Application
The M4 has a proven track record in law enforcement. Its reliability and ruggedness make it an ideal choice for situations where the weapon must function flawlessly under pressure. The M2 has also been adopted by law enforcement agencies, particularly those focused on specialized tactical teams and competition applications.
Hunting with a Purpose
While both shotguns can be used for hunting, the M2’s lighter weight and faster cycling times make it a favorite among hunters. Its generally lower price and straightforward design also contribute to its popularity. The M2’s suitability in the field makes it a fantastic choice for waterfowl, upland game, and big game hunting applications.
Competitive Shooting Considerations
The M2 is a popular choice in many competitive shotgun sports. Its quick cycling times and maneuverability provide a competitive edge. Its lighter weight also translates to faster target transitions. The M4, while still used in competition, is generally favored in environments where sheer reliability is preferred over speed.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Benelli
The decision between the Benelli M4 and M2 ultimately hinges on your specific needs and priorities.
The **Benelli M4** is the ultimate workhorse. It’s the ideal choice for those seeking absolute reliability, especially in demanding environments where malfunction is not an option. It’s also an excellent choice for those who want a robust, military-grade shotgun, and it is an exceptionally well-built firearm. Its higher price point reflects its exceptional quality.
The **Benelli M2** is the versatile all-rounder. The M2 is an excellent choice for hunters, competitive shooters, and those seeking a lighter, more affordable option. Its easy handling, reliability, and customizability make it a great choice.
Before making your decision, we highly recommend you handle both shotguns and, if possible, try shooting them. This hands-on experience is invaluable for determining which shotgun best suits your style, your build, and your specific requirements. Either way, choosing a Benelli shotgun means you are making an investment in quality, performance, and a legacy of excellence that has firmly established the brand as a leader in the semi-auto shotgun world. By understanding the differences, you’ll be well-equipped to make the best choice for your needs.
