Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge Shotgun in Realtree Max-5: The Ultimate All-Purpose Field Companion

Are you a dedicated hunter or sport shooter searching for a semi-automatic shotgun that combines unwavering reliability with exceptional comfort and superb handling? Do you need a firearm that performs flawlessly in the harshest conditions, reduces felt recoil significantly, and offers consistent, tight patterns shot after shot? Look no further than the Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge shotgun, specifically the model finished in the highly effective Realtree Max-5 camouflage. This shotgun is engineered to solve common challenges faced by shooters: unreliable cycling, excessive recoil fatigue, cumbersome weight, and inconsistent performance. It's an ideal choice for anyone from seasoned waterfowl enthusiasts and upland bird hunters to competitive clay target shooters and even those new to the sport seeking a forgiving yet powerful platform.

The Benelli M2 Field series stands as the bedrock of Benelli's renowned semi-automatic shotgun line, celebrated for its rugged construction and lightning-fast handling. This particular 20-gauge variant, weighing a mere 5.8 pounds with a 26-inch barrel, strikes an enviable balance between portability and precise swing, making it a joy to carry through dense cover or swing on fast-moving birds. Whether you're navigating a marsh for ducks, trekking across fields for pheasants, or standing in a blind targeting geese, the M2 Field is designed to be your unwavering partner.

Unwavering Reliability: The Heart of the Benelli M2 – Inertia Driven® System

What makes the Benelli M2 Field stand apart in terms of dependable performance? At its core lies the revolutionary and patented Inertia Driven® system. This ultra-reliable mechanism is widely regarded as one of the most robust and consistent operating systems in the world of semi-automatic shotguns. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, which divert hot, dirty gases from the barrel to cycle the action, the Inertia Driven system harnesses the shotgun's own recoil energy to cycle subsequent rounds.

Here's how this ingenious system works: When a round is fired, the shotgun recoils. During this recoil, the bolt body moves rearward under inertia, while the bolt head, momentarily locked in place by the rotating bolt design, remains stationary relative to the chamber. This differential movement compresses a stout inertia spring positioned between the bolt body and the bolt head. As the gun's recoil energy dissipates, the compressed spring rapidly expands, propelling the bolt assembly rearward. This forceful motion efficiently unlocks the rotating bolt head, extracts and ejects the spent shell, and simultaneously loads a fresh round from the magazine into the chamber as the bolt returns to battery.

The beauty of the Inertia Driven system lies in its elegant simplicity. It consists of only three primary components: the bolt body, the inertia spring, and the rotating bolt head. This minimalist design translates directly into several critical advantages for the shooter:

• Exceptional Reliability: With fewer moving parts and no gas ports or pistons to foul, the system remains incredibly clean. This means virtually no carbon fouling or unburnt powder residue enters the action, significantly reducing the chances of malfunctions, even after hundreds of rounds without cleaning. This makes the Benelli M2 Field a go-to choice for high-volume shooting or critical hunting scenarios where failure is simply not an option.
• All-Weather Performance: The system is inherently less susceptible to changes in temperature, humidity, or the accumulation of dirt and debris. Hunters who face freezing rain, dusty fields, or muddy marshes can trust their M2 Field to cycle reliably, shot after shot.
• Versatility with Loads: The Inertia Driven system is renowned for its ability to cycle a wide array of ammunition, from light target loads used in sporting clays to heavy magnum waterfowl loads, all with consistent and dependable performance. This adaptability means you don't have to worry about your gun failing to cycle specific types of shells.
• Ease of Maintenance: Because the action stays remarkably clean, cleaning and routine maintenance are significantly simplified and require less time. This allows you to spend more time shooting and less time scrubbing.

Conquer Recoil: Experience Unmatched Comfort with ComforTech®

One of the most common complaints among shotgun shooters is felt recoil, especially during extended shooting sessions or when using heavier loads. The Benelli M2 Field directly addresses this issue with its advanced ComforTech® recoil reduction system. This proprietary technology is integrated into the stock, transforming the shooting experience by making it noticeably more comfortable and enabling faster, more accurate follow-up shots.

The ComforTech system works through a combination of innovative design elements:

• Chevron System: The synthetic stock features a series of strategically placed, recoil-absorbing chevrons (V-shaped inserts) that flex and compress upon recoil. These chevrons act as shock absorbers, effectively dampening the harsh energy before it reaches the shooter's shoulder.
• Recoil Pad: A specially designed, soft gel recoil pad further absorbs and dissipates recoil energy at the point of contact with the shoulder. This ergonomic pad conforms comfortably, distributing pressure evenly.
• Gel Comb Pad (Optional/Interchangeable): The stock also incorporates an interchangeable gel comb pad. This feature significantly reduces felt recoil against the shooter's cheek, preventing the discomfort and potential bruising often associated with recoil. This is particularly beneficial during high-volume shooting or when using powerful hunting loads.

Together, these components of the ComforTech system synergistically reduce felt recoil by a significant margin—often cited as up to 48% depending on the load—compared to traditional shotguns. The tangible benefits for the shooter are immense:

• Reduced Shooter Fatigue: Less recoil means you can shoot more rounds for longer periods without discomfort or fatigue, allowing you to focus on your target rather than anticipating the next kick.
• Faster Follow-Up Shots: With less muzzle jump and shoulder punishment, you can quickly re-acquire your target and deliver accurate follow-up shots, which is crucial for waterfowl hunting, dove shoots, or breaking multiple targets on the clays course.
• Improved Accuracy: A more comfortable shooting experience naturally leads to less flinching and better shooting mechanics, ultimately enhancing your accuracy.
• Ideal for Diverse Shooters: The recoil-reducing properties make the M2 Field an excellent choice for recoil-sensitive shooters, younger hunters, or those with a smaller frame who might otherwise be deterred by the perceived harshness of shotgun shooting.

Precision and Performance: The Cryogenically Treated Crio® Barrel

Beyond its reliable action and comfortable stock, the Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge ensures superior shot patterns and enhanced durability through its cryogenically treated Crio® barrel and choke tubes. Cryogenic treatment is a specialized process where steel components are slowly cooled to extremely low temperatures (below -250° F) and then gradually brought back to ambient temperature. This process alters the molecular structure of the steel at a microscopic level, resulting in several key performance benefits for shotgun barrels:

• Reduced Internal Stress: The Crio process relieves internal stresses that can develop during manufacturing, leading to a more uniform barrel bore. This uniformity contributes to more consistent and even shot patterns.
• Smoother Bore Surface: The microscopic structure of the steel becomes more uniform and dense, resulting in a smoother bore surface. This reduction in friction as shot passes through the barrel minimizes pellet deformation, leading to fewer flyers and tighter, more uniform patterns downrange.
• Easier Cleaning: The smoother bore also means less plastic wad residue and lead fouling adhere to the barrel walls, making cleaning significantly faster and easier after a day in the field or at the range.
• Enhanced Durability and Longevity: The treated steel exhibits increased resistance to wear and tear, extending the life of the barrel and maintaining its accuracy over thousands of rounds.

The Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge (UPC 650350110982) comes standard with a comprehensive set of Crio Choke Tubes, allowing you to optimize your shot pattern for various shooting scenarios. The included chokes typically are:

• C (Cylinder): Delivers the widest shot pattern, ideal for very close-range shooting, such as flushing birds in thick cover or for buckshot/slugs.
• IC (Improved Cylinder): Provides a slightly tighter pattern than Cylinder, excellent for close-to-medium range upland birds like quail or dove, and for skeet shooting.
• M (Modified): A versatile choke offering a balanced pattern, suitable for most general hunting applications including pheasant, duck, and sporting clays.
• IM (Improved Modified): A tighter pattern than Modified, often preferred for longer-range duck or goose hunting, or for trap shooting.
• F (Full): Delivers the tightest pattern, reserved for very long-range shots on resilient birds like geese or turkeys (where legal and appropriate for the specific load).

This versatility in choke selection ensures that your M2 Field can be tailored precisely to the demands of your specific game or clay target presentation.

Master the Field: Lightweight Design and Superior Balance

Measuring 47.3 inches overall and weighing in at a remarkably light 5.8 pounds, the Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge is designed for effortless handling and carry. This lightweight nature is a significant advantage for hunters who spend long hours traversing vast terrains or navigating dense brush. Reduced weight translates directly to less fatigue, allowing you to stay focused and alert throughout your hunt.

Beyond mere lightness, Benelli engineers the M2 Field for exceptional balance. The point of balance is typically just forward of the receiver, which promotes a smooth and natural swing. This attribute is critical for wing shooting, enabling you to get on target quickly, track moving game smoothly, and follow through effectively. Whether you're making snap shots on flushing birds or leading high-flying ducks, the M2 Field's dynamic balance contributes significantly to successful shot placement. Its streamlined profile and ergonomic design also contribute to a comfortable and secure grip, even with gloved hands or in wet conditions.

Why Choose the 20 Gauge Benelli M2 Field? Power and Agility Combined

While the 12 gauge often dominates discussions about hunting shotguns, the 20 gauge Benelli M2 Field (UPC 650350110982) presents a compelling case for its own unique advantages, especially when paired with Benelli's advanced technologies.

• Reduced Recoil: As discussed with the ComforTech system, a 20-gauge shotgun naturally produces less recoil than a 12-gauge, even before recoil reduction technologies are applied. When combined with ComforTech, the felt recoil becomes remarkably manageable, making it an excellent choice for:
  • Youth Shooters: Helps new shooters build confidence without being intimidated by recoil.
  • Smaller-Framed Individuals: Provides a comfortable and effective hunting platform.
  • Recoil-Sensitive Shooters: Allows individuals who struggle with 12-gauge recoil to enjoy shooting without pain.
  • High-Volume Shooting: Reduces cumulative fatigue during long days at the clays course or a busy dove field.
• Lighter Weight and Easier Carry: A 20-gauge shotgun is inherently lighter than its 12-gauge counterpart, enhancing portability and reducing fatigue during long hunts, particularly in challenging terrain.
• Nimbler Handling: The smaller frame and lighter weight contribute to a more agile shotgun, allowing for quicker target acquisition and more fluid swings, which is invaluable for fast-paced upland hunting or dynamic clay shooting.
• Sufficient Power: Modern 20-gauge ammunition, especially with advanced shot types like bismuth or tungsten-based loads, is incredibly effective for a wide range of game, including ducks, geese, pheasant, grouse, quail, and dove. For many hunting scenarios, the 20-gauge offers all the knockdown power needed without the unnecessary bulk or recoil of a 12-gauge.

Choosing the 20-gauge M2 Field means opting for a sophisticated balance of power, maneuverability, and shooting comfort that is often overlooked but delivers exceptional results in the field.

Designed for the Elements: The Realtree Max-5 Finish

The Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge (UPC 650350110982) is coated in the immersive and highly effective Realtree Max-5 camouflage pattern. This finish isn't just about aesthetics; it's a critical component for hunters operating in specific environments. Realtree Max-5 is meticulously designed with reeds, cattails, canebrakes, and corn stalks that are strategically layered to create a convincing illusion of depth. This pattern features:

• Lifelike Elements: Incorporates photorealistic images of natural elements found in waterfowl habitats.
• Multi-Directional Design: The pattern works effectively regardless of how the hunter is positioned or what type of vegetation is present.
• Versatile Tones: Contains elements of dark and light, providing effective concealment across varying lighting conditions and distances.

This durable, non-glare finish ensures that your shotgun blends seamlessly into marshlands, timber, stubble fields, and flooded environments, making you virtually invisible to wary waterfowl and other game. The finish is also incredibly resistant to the scratches, abrasions, and environmental damage that come with rigorous field use, ensuring your M2 Field maintains its appearance and protective qualities for years to come.

Versatile Applications: Where the Benelli M2 Field Excels

The Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge (UPC 650350110982) is a true workhorse, excelling in a variety of shooting disciplines and hunting scenarios. Its combination of features makes it an ideal choice for anyone asking:

• "What is the best shotgun for duck hunting in tough conditions?"
• "Which semi-auto shotgun offers the best balance of reliability and comfort for pheasant hunting?"
• "I need a lightweight and fast-handling shotgun for dove season."
• "What's a good versatile shotgun for sporting clays and hunting?"

Here are some of the primary applications where the M2 Field shines:

• Waterfowl Hunting: From freezing duck blinds to muddy goose pits, the Inertia Driven system's reliability in extreme conditions, combined with the all-weather Realtree Max-5 finish, makes it a top choice for duck and goose hunters. The 20 gauge, especially with modern heavy-payload loads, is more than capable of taking down waterfowl ethically.
• Upland Bird Hunting: Its lightweight design and exceptional balance make it a dream for chasing fast-flushing upland birds like pheasants, grouse, quail, and chukars. The quick swing and manageable recoil allow for rapid target acquisition and follow-up shots in dense cover.
• Dove Hunting: High-volume dove hunts require a shotgun that cycles reliably and minimizes shooter fatigue. The M2 Field's Inertia Driven system ensures consistent cycling even after hundreds of rounds, and the ComforTech system makes extended shooting sessions comfortable.
• Sporting Clays, Skeet, and Trap: While often associated with hunting, the M2 Field's features translate perfectly to the clay target range. Its low recoil allows for focused practice and competition, while its smooth handling helps master various presentations. It's an excellent choice for a shooter looking for a single, versatile shotgun for both field and range.
• Turkey Hunting: With the right choke (like a Full or aftermarket turkey-specific choke) and appropriate ammunition, the 20 gauge M2 Field is an effective and comfortable turkey gun, especially in situations where long carries are involved.

Investing in Excellence: The Benelli Legacy and What It Means for You

When you choose a Benelli M2 Field, you're not just buying a shotgun; you're investing in a legacy of Italian craftsmanship, innovative engineering, and unwavering commitment to quality. Benelli Armi S.p.A. has consistently pushed the boundaries of firearm design, with the Inertia Driven system being a prime example of their groundbreaking contributions to the industry. This dedication to excellence translates into firearms that are not only highly effective in the field but also retain their value over time.

Purchasing a Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge (UPC 650350110982) means you're acquiring a reliable tool that will perform consistently for years, supporting your passion for hunting and shooting. For those looking to own this exceptional shotgun, it is available at reputable retailers such as DEGuns.com. DEGuns offers a wide selection of firearms and accessories, providing a trusted source for your shooting needs.

The Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge in Realtree Max-5 is more than just a shotgun; it's a testament to superior design, offering a blend of reliability, comfort, and performance that few others can match. It empowers you to perform at your best, whether facing challenging game or mastering the clay course.

Essential Specifications for the Discerning Shooter

For quick reference, here are the detailed specifications for the Benelli M2 Field 20 Gauge shotgun, SKU 11098, with UPC 650350110982:

Feature	Detail
Gauge	20 Gauge
Barrel Length	26 inches
Overall Length	47.3 inches
Weight	5.8 pounds
Finish	Realtree Max-5 Camouflage
SKU	11098
UPC	650350110982