Description
The first light of a Missouri waterfowl dawn is a test of gear and grit. The marsh is cold, the sky is full of motion, and you need a shotgun that’s an extension of your intent—not a mechanical question mark. When the flight comes in low and fast over the decoys, hesitation is a missed opportunity. That’s the scenario the Benelli M2 Field Semi-Auto 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3″, Optifade Marsh/Patriot Brown, 3rd is built to dominate. It’s a purpose-driven inertia-driven semi-auto designed for the hunter who demands reliability in demanding conditions, from flooded timber to upland fields.
The Benelli M2 Field Semi-Auto 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3″, Optifade Marsh/Patriot Brown, 3rd is a 12-gauge, 3-inch chambered semi-automatic shotgun built on Benelli’s proven inertia-driven system. It features a 28-inch vent-rib barrel, a durable Optifade Marsh camo finish over a Patriot Brown anodized receiver, and comes with three Benelli Performance Shop extended choke tubes (IC, M, F). This setup is engineered for fast, reliable cycling with target loads up to magnum waterfowl rounds, making it a top-tier choice for serious waterfowl and all-around field use.
At its core is the Benelli inertia system. This isn’t a gas gun that gums up with carbon and marsh muck. The action cycles using the recoil energy of the shell itself, with far fewer moving parts. The result? A shotgun that runs cleaner, requires less maintenance in the field, and shrugs off temperature extremes and fouling that can stall other actions. You get consistent performance whether you’re shooting light 1-ounce target loads for clays or 3-inch steel for geese—a critical feature when your day might involve both.
The 28-inch barrel provides a smooth, consistent swing plane for pass-shooting and leads over decoys. The Optifade Marsh pattern isn’t just cosmetic; it’s a scientifically designed camouflage that breaks up the human form in specific wetland environments. Paired with the Patriot Brown receiver, it offers serious concealment. The gun comes with three extended choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), giving you immediate versatility for different ranges and shot types. The synthetic stock is tough, weather-resistant, and houses a gel-filled recoil pad that takes the bite out of a long day at the range or in the blind. With an overall length of 48.5 inches and a weight of 7.3 pounds, it balances forward for smooth follow-through.
| Gauge | 12 |
|---|---|
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | 48.5″ |
| Weight | 7.3 lbs |
| Finish | Optifade Marsh / Patriot Brown |
| Action | Inertia-Driven Semi-Auto |
| Includes | (3) Extended Choke Tubes (IC, M, F) |
Pros & Cons
The M2’s strengths are clear. Its inertia system is famously reliable with minimal maintenance. The camo finish is durable and highly effective. It’s versatile across a wide range of loads. The included choke system is robust. On the downside, the inertia system can transmit slightly more felt recoil than a well-tuned gas system. The stock dimensions are fixed, so it may not fit every shooter perfectly without aftermarket adjustment. At $1385.27, it’s an investment, but one that pays off in long-term dependability.
Who It’s For
This is the shotgun for the dedicated waterfowler who spends seasons in the blind, the serious turkey hunter needing a dependable, camouflaged tool, and the all-around field shooter who wants one semi-auto to handle everything from doves to ducks. It’s for the hunter who prioritizes mechanical simplicity and reliability over adjustable gas systems. If your philosophy is “rinse it off and put it away ready for next time,” this is your gun. It’s also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket parts from brands like Nordic Components for extended magazine tubes and Taran Tactical for oversized controls, though it works flawlessly right out of the box with no gunsmithing required for standard use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light target loads reliably?
A: Yes. The Benelli M2 inertia system is designed to cycle a wide range of loads, from light 1-ounce target loads (typically 1200 fps or higher) up to 3-inch magnums. Consistent performance across this spectrum is a key reason for its popularity.
Q: Is the Optifade finish durable?
A: Extremely. The Optifade Marsh is a printed finish over a stable substrate, not a dip, making it highly resistant to scratching, solvents, and the abrasion from boat blinds and marsh grass. It’s built for hard use.
Q: What’s the difference between the M2 Field and the M2 Tactical?
A: The primary differences are barrel length, sighting systems, and magazine capacity. The Field model has longer barrels (like this 28″) with vent ribs and bead sights, and typically a 4+1 capacity for hunting regulations. The Tactical version has shorter barrels with rifle sights or ghost rings and often an extended magazine tube for defensive use.
Ready to add this benchmark of reliability to your gear? This Benelli M2 Field configuration is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Contact us to check current inventory and initiate a secure, compliant transfer.
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