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Benelli has introduced an entirely new tactical shotgun platform built around a rear-mounted gas system.
The Benelli M2-G1 Tactical is a 12-gauge semi-automatic designed for home defense, law enforcement and professional use. Although it carries the familiar M2 name, its new operating system represents a significant departure from Benelli’s traditional inertia-driven designs.
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Meet Benelli’s New R.P.O. System
The biggest news is Benelli’s Rear Piston Operated gas system, or R.P.O.
It uses two short-stroke pistons positioned near the chamber. Benelli says this placement limits their exposure to fouling while producing cleaner, more controlled operation.
The recoil spring assembly is also isolated from carbon and debris. According to Benelli, the design should reduce maintenance requirements and improve long-term reliability under demanding conditions.
Those benefits could make the M2-G1 especially attractive to agencies and defensive shooters who want a gas-operated shotgun that can remain ready for extended periods.
Built Around Tactical Use
Every M2-G1 comes with an 18.5-inch barrel and accepts both 2¾- and 3-inch 12-gauge shells.
Buyers can choose between a shortened fixed stock with a 13-inch length of pull or an adjustable five-position stock. Models with the collapsible stock also receive an upgraded pistol grip.
Benelli equipped the shotgun with enlarged controls and a beveled loading port for faster manipulation and reloads. Ghost-ring sights come standard.
The forend includes M-LOK slots for mounting lights and other accessories. Multiple QD attachment points provide sling-mounting options.
Benelli also Parkerizes the shotgun’s operating components to improve corrosion and wear resistance.
Capacity varies by configuration. Fixed-stock versions hold either 5+1 or 7+1 rounds. All models with the five-position stock provide a 7+1 capacity.
Five Models at Launch
Benelli is launching the M2-G1 Tactical in five configurations:
- Gray fixed stock, 5+1 capacity: $1,829
- Gray fixed stock, 7+1 capacity: $1,949
- Gray five-position stock, 7+1 capacity: $2,049
- Flat Dark Earth five-position stock, 7+1 capacity: $2,149
- MultiCam Black five-position stock, 7+1 capacity: $2,149
The launch lineup covers everything from a relatively simple fixed-stock defensive shotgun to adjustable models with premium camouflage finishes.
Tested by Tactical Officers
The M2-G1 has already earned a 4.54-out-of-5 “Gold Standard” rating through the National Tactical Officers Association’s Member Tested and Recommended Program.
Five NTOA members from around the country evaluated the shotgun before awarding the rating.
With its dual-piston gas system, modern controls and multiple stock configurations, the M2-G1 gives Benelli a fresh tactical platform positioned alongside its proven M4 family.
It also gives shooters another premium option for defensive use, duty work and tactical training. We’re excited to get one in for review. Stay tuned. And in the meantime, you can learn more HERE.
Key Specifications
- Gauge: 12 gauge
- Chamber: 2¾ and 3 inches
- Barrel length: 18.5 inches
- Operating system: Rear Piston Operated gas system
- Pistons: Dual short-stroke
- Capacity: 5+1 or 7+1
- Stock options: Fixed or five-position adjustable
- Sights: Ghost ring
- Forend: M-LOK compatible
- Sling mounts: QD attachment points
- Finish options: Gray, FDE or MultiCam Black
- Starting MSRP: $1,829
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is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
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