Tactical Rifleman Puts 1,000 Rounds Through the Benelli M2 G1

Carl from Tactical Rifleman went into this review expecting Benelli's new M2 G1 to be a dressed-up, budget version of the M4. After putting over a thousand rounds through it, he came away saying that is not the case at all, and he lays out why in detail in the video.

Key points

• Different gas system: the M2 G1 drops the old M2's inertia-driven action for a rear piston operated system with two short-stroke pistons near the chamber, unlike the M4's Argo gas system, and it is not self-cleaning.
• Price and features: Carl notes it runs about $300 less than the M4 while borrowing the six-position adjustable stock, an upgraded pistol grip he says he likes even better, M-LOK slots, ghost-ring sights and a removable Picatinny rail.
• Reliability testing: the shotgun fed buckshot, birdshot, turkey loads, flechette rounds, bolo rounds and flashbang-style rounds without issue, and cycled 300 rounds rapid-fire with only one jam.
• Weak spots: lighter less-lethal rounds like bean bags and rubber buckshot did not cycle well, and Carl found counter-drone string rounds tended to tangle, with buckshot or #4 shot working better at distance.
• Trade-offs versus the M4: the M2 G1 kicks a bit harder and gets dirtier faster, but Carl says it cycles quicker and costs less.

Quick take

Tactical Rifleman's bottom line is genuine surprise: Carl admits he is torn between the M4 and the M2 G1 for team use, calling the newer gun a serious option rather than a cheap stand-in, especially for anyone wanting a reliable shotgun that handles odd and specialty ammo.

Watch the full video: Tactical Rifleman