Since the 1980s, Benelli’s inertia-operated M1 and M2 shotguns have formed the backbone of the company’s semi-automatic shotgun catalog. Over the years, the models have gotten subtle updates that have made their reliability and usability even better. New for 2026, Benelli’s M2 Field models are getting added features for better comfort and control.
At their core, the new M2 is just like the old M2. It uses the company’s Inertia Driven action, that results in a clean, reliable and adjustment-free shotgun. The bolt’s Easy Locking system is designed to ensure reliable operation with everything from light target loads to the heaviest magnums. Incorporating Easy Loading Technology, topping up the tubular magazine is drama-free. Crio barrels are cryogenically treated and have a vent rib and a bar front sight with a red fiber optic insert.
The update is in the M2’s buttstock, where Benelli adds its Progressive Comfort recoil reducing technology, as introduced in its Ethos shotgun. This system uses a series of progressively stiffer, interlocking recoil-absorbing leaves that react to the power of the load being fired to reduce recoil and add controllability for follow-up shots. The stock also has the company’s Comb Tech Recoil Reducing Cheek Pad which minimizes recoil transmitted to the face and is removable to allow the shooter to custom tune the comb height to their taste.
The updated M2 Field is available in 13 different configurations. Twelve-gauge models have 28-inch barrels (a version in Mossy Oak Bottomland camo is available with a 26-inch barrel). Twenty-gauge models have 28 or 26-inch barrels. Finish options include a black synthetic stock, anodized black receiver, and matte blue steel parts, or a Realtree Max-7, Mossy Oak Bottomland, GORE Optifade Marsh, or GORE Optifade Timber finish on furniture and metal parts. Twenty-gauge models weigh 6.2 pounds, and 12-gauge models weigh 7.2 pounds/ Both gauges have a length-of-pull of 14 3/8 inches. All come with an Improved Cylinder, Modified and Full Crio choke tubes.
In both gauges, all black models Benelli M2 Field models have an MSRP of $1,699, while camouflage-finished models retail for $1,829. For more information, see the company’s website.
