From the battlefield to the range, Benelli semi-auto shotguns have developed a reputation for quality and reliability. Tactical versions of the company's M2 provide a good value that still delivers the performance expected from a Benelli. New for 2026, the company has given the tactical M2 a radical update with the M2-G1.
The M2-G1 Tactical is “a purpose-built semi-automatic shotgun engineered to meet the demands of today’s defensive professionals, law enforcement officers, and serious tactical shooters.” Where the M2-G1 differs from the original M2 is that it moves away from the original M2’s inertia-driven system to a gas-piston system.
Called the Rear Piston Operated (R.P.O.) gas system, the company claims it “delivers cleaner operation, enhanced control, and long-term reliability.” The system uses dual short-stroke self-regulating pistons positioned near the chamber, where the gas is higher pressure and cleaner, and an isolated recoil spring assembly housed in the stock to protect against fouling build-up.
The M2-G1 Tactical has an 18.5-inch barrel with a 12-gauge, 3-inch chamber and fixed modified choke. Controls, including the charging handle, safety and bolt release, have been enlarged, while the loading port has been beveled. Additional enhancements include “ghost-ring” aperture sights and a Picatinny optics rail, M-Lok accessory slots in the fore-end and multiple QD sling swivel ports. Steel parts are given a Parkerized finish.
The Benelli M2-G1 with a fixed standard stock (13-inch length of pull), gray finish and a five-round magazine weighs 7.4 pounds and has an MSRP of $1,829. The same model with an extended seven-round magazine weighs 7.6 pounds and retails for $1,949.
The M2-G1 is also available with a seven-round magazine and a five-position telescoping stock with a length-of-pull that is adjustable between 13.8 inches and 14.75 inches, similar to the one offered on the M4 EXT. It weighs 8 pounds and is available with gray ($2,049), Multi-Cam Black or Flat-Dark Earth ($2,149 each) finishes.
For more information, see the company’s website.
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