Benelli M2

The Benelli M2 is available in both 12 gauge and 20 gauge configurations, with the 12 gauge being the most common variant for hunting and competitive shooting. The 12 gauge M2 can chamber shells up to 3.5 inches in the Super Black Eagle variant, though the standard M2 typically handles 3-inch shells.

The Benelli M2 uses Benelli's proprietary inertia-driven operating system, which harnesses the rearward force of the recoil spring to cycle the action rather than using gas redirected from the barrel. This design results in fewer parts to clean, as it does not introduce carbon fouling into the action the way gas systems do, and generally provides faster cycling.

Yes, the Benelli M2 is one of the most popular shotguns used in 3-gun competition, valued for its fast cycling speed and reliability under rapid fire. Many competitive shooters customize their M2 with extended magazine tubes, oversized charging handles, and improved sights specifically for 3-gun events.

The Benelli M2 uses an inertia-driven system while the Beretta A300 and A400 series use gas-operated systems, meaning the M2 is generally lighter and easier to clean but the Beretta gas guns tend to have softer felt recoil. For waterfowl hunting, both are excellent choices, and the preference often comes down to whether the shooter prioritizes the M2's simplicity or the Beretta's smoother shooting feel with heavy loads.