The Benelli M4: The Ultimate Combat Shotgun and Its Variations
The Benelli M4 Tactical is widely regarded as the gold standard for semi-automatic combat shotguns. Originally designed in 1998 to meet the rigorous demands of the U.S. Marine Corps, the M4 has spent decades proving its reliability in the world’s most hostile environments. Known for its “indestructible” gas-operating system and iconic profile, the M4 platform has evolved into a family of specialized variations tailored for military, law enforcement, and civilian defense.
The Core: The ARGO System
What separates the M4 from almost every other semi-auto on the market is its Auto-Regulating Gas-Operated (ARGO) system. Unlike Benelli’s traditional inertia-driven shotguns, the M4 utilizes a dual short-stroke piston system located just forward of the chamber.
- Self-Cleaning: The gas is bled off where it is hottest and cleanest, making the system virtually self-cleaning even after high-volume fire.
- Simplicity: By using only a few moving parts and eliminating heavy action bars, the ARGO system reduces vibration and allows the shotgun to cycle a massive variety of loads—from low-recoil tactical buckshot to heavy 3-inch magnums—without manual adjustment.
The Benelli M4 Variations
The M4 platform is available in several distinct configurations, ranging from the classic military-spec model to the modern, high-capacity EXT.
1. Benelli M4 Tactical (Standard)
The foundation of the line, the standard M4 Tactical features an 18.5-inch barrel and an anodized black/phosphate finish. It comes factory-equipped with ghost-ring sights and a Picatinny rail for optics. In most civilian markets, this model comes with a 5+1 magazine capacity to comply with import regulations, though it can be expanded with aftermarket components.
2. Benelli M4 EXT (New for 2026)
The M4 EXT is the latest evolution of the platform, released to address the most common user requests. It is a 922R-compliant version that comes factory-standard with a 7+1 magazine capacity (no extension needed).
- Upgraded Controls: It features an oversized bolt release, a larger charging handle, and an enlarged safety button.
- Telescoping Stock: It typically ships with a 5-position collapsible stock, allowing for a highly adjustable length of pull.
- New Finishes: The EXT is available in specialized aesthetics, including Multicam Black and Flat Dark Earth (FDE).
3. Benelli M4 H2O
Designed specifically for maritime environments and extreme humidity, the H2O model features a Titanium Cerakote finish on the barreled action and receiver. This provides a diamond-like hardness and superior corrosion resistance against salt spray. While early versions used NP3 plating, the modern Cerakote H2O version offers comparable protection with improved impact resistance.
4. Benelli M4 Entry (NFA/LE)
The Entry model is a specialized short-barreled shotgun (SBS) featuring a 14-inch barrel. Due to its compact size, it is a favorite for breaching and close-quarters law enforcement operations. Because of its shorter length, the magazine capacity is reduced to 5+1. In many regions, this variation is restricted to military/LE or requires specialized NFA tax stamps.
5. Benelli M1014 (The Legend)
The M1014 is a commemorative/original-spec version of the M4 that celebrates its adoption by the U.S. Military. It is functionally identical to the M4 but often features unique markings (such as the American flag on the receiver) and typically ships with a fixed-position skeletonized stock that mimics the look of the military’s collapsible version.
Stock and Furniture Options
The modularity of the M4 is further defined by its three primary stock options:
- Pistol Grip Stock: The most iconic M4 look, featuring a fixed buttstock with a rubberized pistol grip for maximum control and comfort during high-recoil strings of fire.
- Telescoping Stock: Often found on the M4 EXT and LE models, this stock collapses into multiple positions (3 or 5), allowing the user to adjust for body armor or different shooting stances.
- Field Stock: A traditional “straight” hunting-style stock without a pistol grip. This is often preferred by shooters who want a more streamlined profile for traditional shooting positions or those who find the pistol grip cumbersome.
Every Benelli M4, regardless of variation, is built with a drilled and tapped receiver and a cold hammer-forged barrel, ensuring that the legendary reliability of the “Marine Shotgun” remains intact across the entire lineup.
