Ever since the 1960’s, the Benelli family has been manufacturing top notch firearms. They gained fame and success due to the quality and innovation of their shotguns. The M1 Super 90 was a hit, so to speak, and the M2 which followed it was a major improvement. In 2013, Benelli introduced a compact version of the M2 Field shotgun, with a short stock featuring Benelli’s ComforTech system, as well as an ergonomic butt pad. This pad is designed to not only fit the shoulder, but also spread the recoil energy over the largest area possible, providing the shooter with a better stance, faster recovery, and more precise follow-up shots. When it was unveiled at SHOT Show 2013, it received a lot of attention, and it was clear that this was going to be a great new addition to Benelli’s prestigious line of shotguns.

Benelli M2 Specifications

The M2 Field Compact comes in 12 or 20 gauge, and is chambered in 2-¾ inches or 3 inches. It has a black synthetic finish, a red bar front sight, and a 24 inch barrel which comes with 5 different choke tube options: cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, improved modified, and full. This allows the M2 Compact to display great versatility and adaptation. It can shoot anything from smaller loads to 3-inch magnums, and the chokes will spread your shot across a target in the best possible way.

The overall length of the M2 Compact is 44 inches. It has a magazine capacity of 3 +1, weighs in at 5.6 lbs. (approximately), and has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price tag of $1,499. It’s true, Benelli’s shotguns were never of the cheaper variety, and there is a good reason for that. Behind every shotgun or firearm they release, there is a long and proud history. A history of research, development, innovation, superb craftsmanship, and quality engineering. After all, we’re talking about a family which has been in business since 1911. Okay, so back then they were selling and repairing motorcycles, not firearms, but their creativity and ingenuity were very much apparent, even way back then.

Breaking in the Benelli M2

Be sure to break the M2 in with appropriate shells. Some shooters become frustrated with the performance of their Benelli, saying it jams or fails to feed. Breaking a barrel in with the right kind of shells will provide the shooter with better results with smaller loads. For the M2 Compact, 3 inch buckshots should do the job nicely. Shoot a few boxes of those, and that Benelli will be singing. The heavier loads also help to break in the inertia-driven system, the springs, and the rest of the parts which function when cycling.

Benelli M2 Inertia-Driven System and ComforTech Recoil Reduction

The M2 Field compact utilizes Benelli’s famous inertia-driven system, which makes sure that the shotgun is clear and dependable, and that there is no need for further adjustments or alterations upon leaving the Benelli facilities. The inertia-driven system is what made Benelli famous back in the 60’s, and it continues to be a symbol of simplicity and consistency. The inertia-driven system operates in accordance with the strict laws of physics, yet Benelli’s firearms seem to find loopholes, defying the physical rules, and cycling faster than any field or combat shotgun in the world.

Part of what makes the M2 Compact more suitable for younger shooters, is the ComforTech recoil reduction system. It is a way to reduce recoil by almost 50%, according to Benelli’s website, and it is perfect for younger shoulders, who may not be able to stand the kick of a different kind of shotgun. Furthermore, there is a no-slip weatherproof grip over-coating, making sure that the shooter’s grip remains firm and tight, regardless of wet or dry conditions.

Benelli M2 For Younger Shooters

Many times, compact versions of firearms are referred to as “youth” versions. While it may be true that the smaller dimensions facilitate better handling for younger shooters, eventually it is a matter of personal preference. Some people just prefer compact models. The length of pull is different because of the smaller stock, and that allows greater degrees of comfort. You don’t have to be a youth in order to appreciate the M2 Compact. Plus, the Compact can grow with the shooter. As a shooter grows, additional pads can be added. Eventually, a full size stock can be attached, and it can replace the shorter stock. Once you shoot a Benelli shotgun, you know that you are holding in your hands a piece of perfection. As for younger shooters – letting them shoot a compact semi-automatic firearm, like the M2, is a chance to educate them from early on, on proper shotgun handling and firearm etiquette. If you are going to put a shotgun in the hands of an early teenager, make sure to provide him or her with all of the relevant safety instructions and conduct.

Benelli M2 in Cold Weather and Heat

Speaking of wet and dry, Benelli’s M2 Compact has its barrel and choke tubes treated with Benelli’s own Crio system. Treating the barrel and chokes cryogenically allows the parts to stay cleaner and shoot better for longer periods of time. If you want your shot to be on target, and not spread out too far, choosing the right choke tube is key. If you want that choke tube to function at maximum capacity, treating it with minus 300 degree Fahrenheit will get it there. The extreme cold physically changes the steel’s structure, and causes it to respond less to the stress caused by hammer forging. Also, the intense heat which is found within a shotgun may cause the barrel to expand or contract, but cryogenic treatments can help prevent those movements, and allow shot after shot to be fired without fail.

12 Or 20-Gauge Benelli M2?

The M2 Compact comes in 12 or 20 gauge. 12 gauge has a large following, and 20 gauge shotguns tend to be somewhat underrated. A lot of people don’t seem to take to them as a home defense weapon. Some contend that 12 gauge is, in fact, better, but that 20 gauge shotguns are easier to get used to, and are thus more suitable for newer shooters, younger shooters, or ones which are more sensitive to recoil.

Benelli M2 For Hunting

When it comes to hunting, there is a definite difference. The 20 gauge is lighter and easier to handle. If you are out on a 3-day camping/hunting trip, perhaps a 20 gauge would be appropriate. When it comes to home defense, it may not really matter. Normally, the home defense scenario occurs within such a closed area and short distance, that it probably won’t matter whether the shotgun is 12 or 20 gauge. At that point, it is only a question of comfort. If the kick of a 12 gauge shotgun is too much, go with a 20. It is that simple.

Loving my new @Benelli_USA m2! Can't wait for spring turkey! 🦃 pic.twitter.com/Qe9L4hf4xp

— Christy Creps (@cl_creps) March 30, 2016

Benelli M2 Accessories

Benelli isn’t too big on accessories, it seems. There aren’t many ways to pimp their line of shotguns, and the M2 is no exception. I consider that to be a good thing, though, because it means that people will be busy with the actual firearm, instead of just how it looks or what tacticool gadgets it should have mounted on it. When you come down to it, it is all about the shooter and the shotgun. And while some customization is a good thing, you shouldn’t go overboard. Keeping that in mind, here are a few choice accessories. These are not made by Benelli, but they fit the M2:

• Buttstock Shell Holder, by Specter Gear

This small accessory holds 6 12-gauge shells on the side of the stock. It fits the M1, M2, and M3 shotguns. It can be used as a standalone accessory or attached to a specific sling. This shell holder can be used by left- and right-handed shooters, and it comes with rear adapters. It keeps things tight and secure, and allows you to reload with greater ease.

• Sureshell Carrier, by Mesa Tactical

This is an accessory specifically designed for use with the Benelli M2. It is a shotgun shell holder which holds 6 12-gauge shells. It is lightweight (made of aircraft aluminum), and it attaches to the shotgun’s receiver. The mount has a picatinny rail, for mounting optics and/or other types of accessories.

• Precision-Fit Recoil Pad, by LimbSaver

Boy, is this thing ever so accurately titled. It fits not only Benelli shotguns, but also Baikal, Franchi, and Stoeger shotguns. It reduces up to 70% (!) of the recoil (compared to other pads), and provides stability, as well as control of stance and follow-up shots. Need to reacquire that target in a hurry? The padding facilitates that to a tee. Quick recovery is the name of the game, whether you are shooting clay or hunting waterfowl. Every millisecond counts. The LimbSaver pad is made with the company’s own noise and vibration control materials (NAVCOM). It is non-slip, durable, and dependable.

Okay, so shell holders might be a luxury. A recoil pad is a bare necessity for shooters who don’t want to punish their shoulder. Of course, it also depends on the shooter’s shouldering, and on the ammo which is being used. You may not necessarily need 6 extra shells right there on your shotgun, but you probably could use some protection.

• Barrel Magazine Tube Clamp, by CDM

A mount for all seasons. This is an accessory which facilitates the use of other accessories, such as optics or lights. This lightweight piece, made of 6061-T aircraft aluminum, is designed to fit the Benelli M1, M2, M4, M1014 (military), and Supernova models. The clamp has 3 slots, which allow for adjustments to anything you may want to mount. It features quick detach connections, and is of high quality workmanship.

• Benelli M2 Mount, by Game Reaper

This is a one-piece scope mount. It is lightweight and sturdy, made of 6061-T aircraft aluminum. Available in 30mm or 1 inch sizes. Comes in low, medium, or high, and available in black, white, and camo. Game Reaper also makes mounts for the Benelli’s R1 and Super Black Eagle II.

Benelli M2 Variants

Benelli’s M2 shotgun has several variants, meant for civilian, law enforcement, and military use. These are the tactical, the field, and the compact. It is the second in line of M-class guns, but it is much more than just an updated version of the M1 (Super 90). It is a shotgun which has won the respect of just about everyone who has laid their hands on it. It looks good, and it shoots really nicely.

Conclusion

The M2 was the shotgun of choice for one of the world’s most celebrated exhibition sharpshooters, the late Tom Knapp. He was known to use a Benelli M2 in many of his demonstrations, and he even managed to break the world record (10 clays in 2.2 seconds), using an an extended magazine in his shotgun. In recent years, shotguns have been making comeback as a home defense weapon. I still feel that a Glock or AR-15 is the way to go when at home, but that’s just me. I feel a shotgun like the M2 is more at home when it is out there, in the field. It was designed to be a hunting and sporting shotgun, and even though it could double as a home defense weapon, it is in those areas of shooting that the M2 really shines.

Benelli knew that the shooting crowd wanted a compact version of the M2, and they delivered. This is one shotgun which is good to go from the moment you unbox it. It doesn’t require any accessories, although they are helpful, or modifications of any kind. The gun comes with a hard case, shim kit, and choke tube wrench. Benelli have been producing grade-A firearms for nearly 50 years, and they continue to be one of the world’s leading firearms manufacturers. Their line of semi-automatic shotguns is a real testament to their creativity and pursuit of excellence.Targets, clays, game birds – its all on you and your M2. With duck and bird seasons opening, all I can say is wish you happy hunting! Stay armed, and stay safe.

Want to read about another great Benelli firearm? Check out our Super Vinci review right here at Gunivore!

The post Benelli M2 Field Compact Shotgun Review appeared first on Gunivore.

In 2009, Benelli introduced its brand new Vinci line. At the time, it made a big splash, and rightfully so. The Vinci is not just a rehash of older designs from the 1960’s. It was nothing short of a revolution, and it changed the way semi-auto shotguns were viewed. When the Vinci was launched, it was hailed as being the most lightweight, fastest shooting, most accurately balanced semi-automatic shotgun in the world. Benelli took a lot of pride in their newest achievement, and its simplicity and efficiency were unparalleled. Two years later, Benelli unveiled their newest creation – the Super Vinci.

Benelli Super Vinci Shotgun Review

With the release of their new and improved Super Vinci, Benelli introduced an enlarged safety button, improved checkering, as well as a slimmer design for the trigger guard. This was done because the Super Vinci can shoot 3.5″ shots, which pack one hell of a punch. On the older Vinci models, the trigger guard had the option of getting in the way once that recoil hit. It had the potential to throw the shooter off, and obstruct recovery. With the new design, that problem has been virtually eliminated, and the shotgun handles much better. Another change with the Super Vinci is the slenderer forearm, which unlike the older models does not get wider as it approaches the muzzle. This acts as a better fit for most shooters’ hands, especially when wearing gloves. The Super Vinci has the ComforTech Plus stock, which is a real blessing. When you fire off a 3.5″ shell, you better believe you are going to require some comfortable padding and superior ergonomics. Of course, just because the gun has the ability to fire 3.5″ shells, it doesn’t mean that it must be used for that purpose. I feel that if you are a good enough shot, you could use 2¾ loads and achieve the same results. Regardless of the 3.5″ shooting capabilities, the Super Vinci is a work of art and is definitely befitting of taking the Master’s name.

Both the Vinci and Super Vinci are built the same, overall, and have three main sections – stock, trigger group, and receiver/barrel. They come together and can be taken apart in seconds, and this makes it that much easier to assemble/disassemble the shotgun, maintain it, lube it, clean it, and store or transport it. The Super Vinci is one of the most lightweight, well-balanced, and accurate semi-automatic shotguns available today, and Benelli knew what they were doing when they released it. They gave people the Vinci, and two years later introduced the next generation of Vinci. The Super Vinci is available only in 12 gauge, chambered for 2¾”, 3″, and 3½”. It comes in 2 different barrel lengths (26″, 28″), 4 different finishes (Black Synthetic, Realtree Max-5, Realtree APG, and Gore Optifade Concealment – Marsh), and has a 3+1 magazine capacity. The different models come with 5 choke tubes – cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, improved modified, and full choke – treated with Benelli’s own Crio system. There are also red bar front and beaded mid sights.

The weight of the Super Vinci is approximately 7 lbs., and the manufacturer suggested retail price for the various models is $1,799 or $1,899. Other standard features which the Super Vinci is equipped with are choke tube wrench, shim kit, and a hard case. Optional features include a gun sock, ComforTech recoil pads and inserts, extended Crio chokes in black matte or chrome, and three special purpose extended chokes, designed for specific targets (turkey, waterfowl, long-range waterfowl).

Common Problems with the Benelli Super Vinci

Failure to feed is probably the most common problem reported with the Super Vinci. What some people fail to internalize is that the Super Vinci is a shotgun designed to handle 3½” shells. Using smaller loads (standard skeet or trap) may cause them to not feed as reliably. Benelli reps recommend breaking the gun in with 100 or 200 3″ heavy shells. Using smaller shells, especially in the beginning, means that there may be cycling issues in the firearm, which is meant to handle much larger loads. Once it is broken in, there is usually no trouble with shooting anything which the Super Vinci can chamber. Another common reason for a failure to feed issue is improper shouldering of the weapon.
Another issue which some people encounter isn’t really an issue, per se, but rather a case of inconvenience and adaptation. The safety button of the Super Vinci is located in front of the trigger, and that could take some getting used to. This is true especially for those of us who have been shooting firearms with the safety located at the back or sides. Some people are only content with a thumb-operated safety, which is why the Super Vinci got some heat for its safety location. For those with smaller hands, it can be a bit of a stretch, and sometimes all you have is a few milliseconds before your bird is gone. No time for fumbling with a safety. But again, that is not something which is innately flawed or wrong with the Super Vinci, but rather a case of adjustment. Safety is a vital subject when it comes to shotguns, so it’s not tough to see why the safety button has been such a polarizing issue for the Super Vinci.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk0nxsDnZWR/?tagged=benellisupervinci
The third and final common issue is an aesthetic one. Some people love the way it shoots, but cannot get over the way it looks. That is a judgment call, obviously. A shotgun’s beauty is in the eye of the shooter. I happen to think it looks unique, but the most important thing is that it does not stand out in the field. And in that respect, the Super Vinci does a fine job.

Whether you are after turkey, dove, or ducks; whether you are shooting trap, skeet, or sporting clays; the Super Vinci is a shotgun which is perfect for sports and hunting alike. For waterfowlers, it is a dream gun, able to take those heavy 3½ loads that some hunters cannot live without. The recoil recovery and overall balance of the gun make it one of the best semi-auto shotguns out there. It shoots in heat and dryness, cold and wetness, snow, mud, and wind. Watch out for that 3½ magnum kick, though!

Sure, the Super Vinci has a couple of issues, but they are ones which are easily overcome. Altogether, it shoots wonderfully, and if you are careful to follow Benelli’s instructions, the Super Vinci will serve you truthfully and faithfully, season after season after season.

Breaking in the Benelli Super Vinci

Okay, so you got yourself a great shotgun. It is perfect in every way, but it may not fire everything and anything right out of the box. You, the shooter, you will have to get the shotgun to a place where it is, shall we say, comfortable. Breaking in the Super Vinci doesn’t just mean giving it the ability to shoot any round it is chambered for (except for cheap, low brass shells…), but it also gets the inertia-driven system up to par and gets the springs all springy. In other words, once you take that shotgun out of the box, you still need to put some time and effort into getting it to its optimal functionality. If you want it to shoot like a Benelli should, you need to play an active role in its discipline and education.

So, let’s start at the beginning. Before you do anything, you need to clean and lube the shotgun. You never know what happens to the package when it is on its way to you. The best possible way to ensure a high-quality shooting experience, from the get-go, is by treating your new shotgun as a tool that is still unfinished. It is still in the process of becoming ready. It arrives at your doorstep, you unbox it, and then you need to break it in. As I mentioned earlier, what works best (and what the Benelli reps recommend) is finding the heaviest ammo possible – with the Super Vinci it will be 3″ or 3½” shells – and shoot a few boxes of it. Even if you don’t fire 3½” shells again, using them to break in the Super Vinci is what works best. As far as brass goes – the higher and bigger they are, the better.

Avoid using cheap shells when breaking in your Super Vinci, because it may lengthen the process and cause unnecessary frustrations in the future. You should probably avoid using cheap shells anyway, but even more so during that first period of time. The web is full of stories of people who took their newly-unboxed Benelli shotgun (not limited to the Super Vinci, but all Benellis), and immediately attempted to go hunting with it. With the Super Vinci, some of them reported that it jammed 60-80% of the time. Sorry, guys, that is not the way it works. Obviously, it is going to jam.

You want your Super Vinci to handle itself like a Super Vinci? Treat it with respect and get it some heavy shells, instead of the smaller ones. The Super Vinci will thank you. Its springs will thank you. Its inertia-driven system will thank you. The gun will cycle faster, better, and smoother after that initial break-in period, and it will take whatever you throw at it, as long as it is within the shotgun’s chambering specifications. There is a minimum load capacity, same as there is a maximum load capacity. It just makes sense to break it in with the shells it is designed to shoot, even if you don’t end up shooting them again. Give the Super Vinci what it wants and needs. Any high quality 3″ or 3½” will do. The ones which I can recommend are the standard “go to” shells: Federal Premium Black Cloud, Winchester X Steel, Remington HyperSonic, or Hevi-Metal. I don’t have such eclectic taste when it comes to shells. I go with what is tried and true, and things work out just fine.

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Wow! Between the 5 of us, we all tagged out on Canvasbacks and were only 3 buffleheads away from tagging out on everything! 22 birds total (not counting Larry’s goose)! What a morning! #groceries #taggedout #benellisupervinci #cancellingflights

A post shared by @ jamie.laurennn on Jan 13, 2018 at 10:44am PST

Benelli Super Vinci Accessories

Some shotguns and firearms have a ton of factory and aftermarket modifications and accessories. Sometimes, it is justified. Sometimes, it is only tacticool, and serves almost no purpose. When it comes to a shotgun the likes of the Super Vinci, there are a few basic accessories which it helps to have around:

Super Vinci Shotgun Sling

This shotgun is both lightweight and one of the best-balanced shooters out there, but it can also be a pain in the neck to carry, especially for a few days. Do yourself a favor: get a sling for your Benelli. It frees your hands, and it helps you stay as comfortable as you can. You are the one who will be carrying this weapon, so you had better do it right.

Super Vinci Extra Padding

Even if you’re not planning on shooting anything more than 2¾” shells, it is nice to have some extra padding to save your shoulder from any harm which may come to it. Sometimes, bad shouldering technique can cause serious damage to your body. Avoid that by padding yourself a little more. Again, remember comfort, but don’t let it compromise your stance or accuracy. See which recoil pad best fits you, and make sure that your upper body stays healthy and happy.

Super Vinci Shell Carrier

Unfortunately, there is no designated shotgun shell carrier for the Super Vinci. There are many out there, which will fit other Benelli designs, but not one of them is made specifically for the Super Vinci. If you can find one, get it. In lieu of that, perhaps consider purchasing a…

Super Vinci Magazine extension

An extension for the Super Vinci magazine can help you add more firepower to this beast of a shotgun. The higher you go in shell length, the fewer shells you can add. If you plan on shooting high round counts of heavy loads, it is recommended to consult with a gunsmith beforehand, since a barrel clamp may be in order.

So, there you have it – Benelli’s Super Vinci. One of the world’s most powerful, fastest-cycling shotguns ever.

Want to read more about epic shotguns? Check out our Kel-Tec KSG feature, right here at Gunivore!

The post Benelli Super Vinci Shotgun Review 2018 appeared first on Gunivore.