TFB Review: The Benelli M4 EXT

Specs

When it comes to the new Benelli M4 EXT, they looked at what people were asking for as a factory option of the M4 platform. They started with a factory tube extension, bumping the standard capacity to 7+1 instead of the typical 5+1 capacity from the previous models. This allows you to have the maximum amount of capacity without the need to switch the magazine extension tube. The trigger on the EXT weighs in around 7 lbs with a smooth, crisp break and audible reset. Benelli also gave us one of the most versatile and hard to find stocks out of them all, which is the 5-position collapsible stock.

In the past, these stocks have been almost impossible to find, so being able to get one from the factory is another huge win for people who want the ultimate version of a Benelli M4. These models come standard with an 18.5” barrel as well as ghost ring rear sights and wind-adjustable front sight. The ARGO (Auto Regulated Gas Operated) gas system hasn't changed from the standard M4 models. The ARGO system is what makes the Benelli M4 so well known for its reliability and prolonged durability even if it's neglected and not regularly cleaned. Take the ARGO system and add a magazine extension, collapsible stock as well as a large bolt release button, and you elevate a well-known shotgun to another level of performance.

The large button release allows for fast reloads without having to search for the smaller standard-size bolt release. The enlarged button allows for easier loading and is another first for Benelli, offering this upgrade from the factory. The Benelli M4 EXT comes in three color variants from the factory, including a Black Multicam variant, FDE or a H20 Tungsten Cerakote. For this test, I received the H20 Tungsten version. When this article goes live, the Benelli M4 EXT will be shipping to dealers and gun shops near you with an MSRP of $2,599.99.

Range Time 

So far, during the course of my testing, I put 480 rounds through the Benelli M4 EXT. Out of the 480 rounds, only 25 rounds were bird shot with the remaining 455 rounds either being 00 buckshot or slugs. I planned on making it an even 500 rounds, but I will admit I made a mistake counting the boxes of buckshot on the last day and forgot one box of 20 at home, which is the only reason this wasn't a 500-round review.

As far as the gun goes, the ARGO gas system is extremely fast. This shotgun will fire as fast as you can shoot it, with most of that time being me trying to catch up to the gun and resetting it after firing high brass buckshot shells.

Recoil is softer felt than something like an A300 patrol or 1301 from Beretta, in my opinion, with a faster cycling speed. The rubber pistol grip, in addition to the collapsible stock, allows for a sturdy grip without feeling like the gun will get away from you. My example did not have any wiggle room in the stock, which made this stock really comfortable to pull into my shoulder and rip rounds into a target as fast as I could. In terms of a defensive shotgun, the collapsible stock offers a ton of versatility. The first range session where I took the M4 EXT out, my girlfriend was also there and fired a few rounds through. The one feature she liked the most was the fact that she could adjust the stock shorter to fit her shorter arms compared to mine.

Is This The Ultimate Benelli M4?

When it comes to tactical shotguns, the Benelli M4 is truly legendary for its reliability during prolonged use. Some of the shortcomings of the previous models were the shorter magazine tube and fixed stock, but when the M4 system is equipped with an extended magazine tube, adjustable stock and a larger bolt release button, it's truly the best version of a legendary shotgun. Various companies like to tweak and mess with their best product lines, but I am really thankful Benelli took the same ARGO gas system and looked to enhance the current system with upgrades people want. It's the best version of a fantastic shotgun.