[Discussion] Benelli Unveils M2-G1 Shotgun With New Rear-Piston Gas System

Benelli Introduces the M2-G1

Benelli has announced the M2-G1, a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun intended for tactical, home-defense, and competition use. The series introduces the company’s Rear Piston Operated gas system and adds an enlarged loading port, extended controls and several stock and capacity configurations.

Five right-handed models are listed as new through Benelli’s dealer and online purchasing pages. All have 18.5-inch barrels and chambers compatible with 2¾- and 3-inch shells. No release date was provided.

Models and Pricing

The detailed model listings show prices from $1,949 to $2,149:

• 11610: Standard stock and grip, 18.5" barrel, 5+1 capacity, anodized gray receiver and matte blued barrel; $1,949.

• 11611: Standard stock and grip, 18.5" barrel, 7+1 capacity, anodized gray receiver and matte blued barrel; $1,949.

• 11612: Five-position telescoping stock, 18.5" barrel, pistol grip, 7+1 capacity, anodized gray receiver and matte blued barrel; $2,049.

• 11617: Five-position stock, pistol grip, 18.5" barrel, 7+1 capacity, and Flat Dark Earth Cerakote receiver and barrel; $2,149.

• 11622: Five-position stock, pistol grip, 18.5" barrel, 7+1 capacity, and MultiCam Black receiver and barrel; $2,149.

Specifications and prices are subject to change.

Rear-Piston Gas System

The M2-G1’s principal mechanical change is its Rear Piston Operated, or R.P.O., gas system. It uses dual short-stroke pistons positioned near the chamber, where gas is collected, while the recoil system is mounted in the stock.

Benelli says this layout reduces the pistons’ exposure to fouling compared with forward-mounted designs, supporting cleaner operation, simplified maintenance and sustained reliability. The company positions R.P.O. as a separate system from the A.R.G.O. gas operation used in the Benelli M4.

Controls, Loading and Sights

An enlarged, beveled loading port and ramped trigger guard are intended to improve loading speed and efficiency. Enlarged controls are designed for easier manipulation under pressure or while wearing gloves.

Every listed model includes ghost-ring sights, a Picatinny rail, and a receiver that is drilled and tapped for optics. The bolt has a Parkerized finish for corrosion resistance, while M-LOK slots on the forend provide accessory mounting points. Quick-detach sling mounting positions are also included.

Telescoping-stock models provide five length-of-pull settings spanning 9.25 to 14 inches. Their pistol grip is intended to provide additional control, and all three carry seven shells in the magazine plus one in the chamber.

Dimensions and Warranty

Standard-stock models measure 38.5 inches overall with a 13-inch length of pull. Model 11610 weighs an average of 7.4 pounds, while the higher-capacity 11611 weighs 7.6 pounds.

The telescoping-stock models measure 39.5 inches overall and weigh an average of 8 pounds. Their listed drop is 2.25 inches at the heel and 1.375 inches at the comb; standard-stock versions have a 2.5-inch heel drop and 1.75-inch comb drop.

The M2-G1 is covered by Benelli’s 10-year limited warranty against defects in metal parts resulting from materials or workmanship, beginning on the original purchase date.

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