Benelli M4 12 Gauge
Model: 11703
Benelli M4 12 Gauge
Model: 11703
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The Benelli M4 is a gas-operated semi-automatic 12 gauge built for home defense and duty use. It has an MSRP of $2,099. Its Auto-Regulating Gas-Operated system was designed for and approved by the U.S. Marine Corps, and it works two pistons set just ahead of the chamber with no gas valve to set between 2-3/4 and 3 shells.
It arrives sighted and ready to mount glass. The rear sight is an adjustable ghost ring and the front is adjustable for windage, the receiver is drilled and tapped so a rail section bolts straight on for a dot, and a modified Crio choke is fitted. The stock is the tactical pattern on this build and Benelli lists a pistol-grip version as a separate item. The magazine holds 5 rounds against the Mossberg 590A1's 9, and it weighs 124.8 oz. Tritium inserts for the ghost-ring sights and the other choke tubes are all sold separately. The barrel finish is phosphate over an anodized aluminum receiver, chosen for corrosion resistance.
If you are cross-shopping, the Beretta 1301 Tactical is 22.4 oz lighter at 102.4 oz and 2.2 inches shorter at an MSRP of $1,720, with a shorter pull that suits a smaller shooter, so the Benelli is the heavier and steadier of the two. The Mossberg 590A1 is a pump gun with a 9-round tube and an MSRP of $910.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- The gas system self-regulates, so the same gun runs light target loads and 3 magnums without an adjustment.
- The receiver is drilled and tapped, so an optic goes on without a gunsmith.
- Benelli sells tritium inserts for the ghost-ring sights, which keeps the irons usable without a light.
- A modified choke tube is all that comes with it, so the other constrictions are a separate order.
- It carries 8.8 oz more than a Mossberg 590A1.
Ballistics Calculator
Calculate trajectory, drop, and energy for 12 Gauge ammunition.
12 Gauge Ballistics →Frequently Asked Questions
What does Auto-Regulating Gas-Operated mean?
Two pistons sit ahead of the chamber and regulate themselves to the pressure of the shell, so there is no gas valve for the owner to set.
What chokes are available for it?
A modified tube comes with the gun. Benelli lists cylinder, improved cylinder, improved modified and full tubes as options.
How is the stock adjusted?
Benelli publishes a fixed length of pull with drop at heel and drop at comb figures for this build. There are no spacers or shims in the box.
Where is it made?
In Italy, and imported by Benelli USA. The commercial gun shares the gas system with the military pattern.
