Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Benelli M4 Tactical Anodized Black 12 Gauge 3in Semi is a reliable semi-automatic shotgun with a 3-inch chamber and an 18.5-inch barrel. Its gas-operated system is known for robust performance in various conditions. This Benelli M4 Tactical Anodized Black 12 Gauge 3in Semi is available for $499.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Benelli M4 Tactical Anodized Black 12 Gauge 3in Semi?
| Product Type | Semi-Automatic Shotgun |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum Receiver, Steel Barrel |
| Manufacturing | Benelli Armi S.p.A. |
| Finish | Anodized Black |
| Hardness/Quality | Military-grade construction, ARGO (Auto-Regulating Gas Operated) system |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge, 2-3/4″ and 3″ shells |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to use out of the box, requires FFL transfer |
| Weight | Approximately 7.8 lbs (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: 40 inches; Barrel Length: 18.5 inches |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | BENELLI-M4-TACTICAL-ANODIZED-BLACK-12GA |
What key features does the Benelli M4 Tactical offer?
The Benelli M4 Tactical Anodized Black 12 Gauge 3in Semi is built for reliability. Its Auto-Regulating Gas Operated (ARGO) system is a dual-piston design located just forward of the receiver. This system is self-cleaning and handles a wide range of ammunition without needing adjustments. From light target loads to heavy 3-inch magnum shells, the M4 cycles them consistently. The anodized black finish provides a durable, non-reflective surface, which is practical for field use and helps protect against corrosion. The 18.5-inch barrel length makes it maneuverable, suitable for close-quarters applications or as a truck gun. It comes with ghost ring sights, which offer quick target acquisition, and a Picatinny rail for mounting optics. The fixed pistol grip stock provides a secure hold and helps manage recoil. As an FFL holder, I’ve seen these come through for transfers, and the build quality is always evident. It’s a shotgun that feels solid in your hands, not flimsy.
Who is the Benelli M4 Tactical Anodized Black 12 Gauge 3in Semi for?
Buy it if:
- You need a dependable semi-automatic shotgun for home defense.
- You’re looking for a robust shotgun for tactical applications or duty use.
- You appreciate a gas-operated system known for its reliability with various ammunition types.
- You want a shotgun with a durable finish and proven track record.
- You’re a serious enthusiast who values a high-performance shotgun.
Skip it if:
- You’re on a very tight budget for a semi-automatic shotgun (see our other shotguns for more budget-friendly options).
- You prefer a lighter shotgun for extensive carrying during long hunting trips (a pump-action might be lighter).
- You primarily shoot trap or skeet and need a dedicated sporting clays shotgun (specialized sporting shotguns often have longer barrels and different balance points).
How does the Benelli M4 compare to other tactical shotguns?
| Feature | Benelli M4 Tactical Anodized Black 12 Gauge 3in Semi | Mossberg 590A1 (Pump-Action) | Remington 870 Tactical (Pump-Action) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum Receiver, Steel Barrel | Steel Receiver, Steel Barrel | Steel Receiver, Steel Barrel |
| Quality | Military-grade, ARGO gas system, high reliability | Mil-Spec, heavy-walled barrel, robust construction | Durable, classic pump-action design |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge, 2-3/4″ & 3″ shells | 12 Gauge, 2-3/4″ & 3″ shells | 12 Gauge, 2-3/4″ & 3″ shells |
| Shipping | Ships from Wichita, KS via FFL | Ships from FFL | Ships from FFL |
| Lifespan/Durability | Designed for extreme conditions, long service life | Known for ruggedness and longevity | Proven track record over decades |
| Price | $499.00 | ~$700-$900 (depending on configuration) | ~$500-$700 (depending on configuration) |
What are the pros and cons of the Benelli M4 Tactical?
Pros:
- ✅ ARGO Gas System: This shotgun’s Auto-Regulating Gas Operated system is self-cleaning and known for its ability to cycle a wide range of loads, from light target shots to heavy magnum shells, without manual adjustment. It’s a system I’ve seen perform consistently.
- ✅ Reliability: The M4 is a proven design, adopted by the U.S. Marine Corps, which speaks to its operational dependability in various environments. In Kansas, where conditions can change quickly, that kind of reliability matters.
- ✅ Durability: The anodized black finish and robust construction mean this shotgun can take a beating and keep running. It’s built for hard use, not just range days.
- ✅ Low Recoil: The ARGO gas system helps mitigate felt recoil, making follow-up shots faster and more comfortable than many pump-action or inertia-driven shotguns, especially with heavier loads.
- ✅ Ghost Ring Sights: The factory ghost ring sights are excellent for quick target acquisition, and the integrated Picatinny rail allows for easy mounting of optics if you prefer.
- ✅ Easy Disassembly: Field stripping the M4 for cleaning is straightforward, which is a big plus after a day at the range or in the field.
Cons:
- ❌ Price Point: The Benelli M4 is a premium shotgun, and its price reflects that. For some, the initial investment might be a consideration compared to more budget-friendly options (see our pump-action shotguns if cost is a primary concern).
- ❌ Weight: While not excessively heavy, at nearly 8 pounds unloaded, some users might find it a bit substantial for extended carry or quick handling in certain situations.
- ❌ Capacity Restrictions: Depending on local laws, the magazine capacity might be limited, which could be a factor for some users.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Benelli M4 Tactical Anodized Black 12 Gauge 3in Semi
What is the effective range of a 12 gauge shotgun like the Benelli M4?
The effective range of a 12 gauge shotgun largely depends on the ammunition type and choke used. With buckshot, you’re generally looking at effective ranges out to 40-50 yards for defensive purposes. With slugs, accuracy can extend out to 100 yards or more, but the trajectory drops off significantly. For birdshot, which isn’t typically used in a tactical shotgun, ranges are much shorter, usually within 30-40 yards depending on the shot size and choke.
Can the Benelli M4 handle both 2-3/4 inch and 3 inch shells?
Yes, the Benelli M4 Tactical Anodized Black 12 Gauge 3in Semi is designed to reliably cycle both 2-3/4 inch and 3 inch 12 gauge shotgun shells. Its ARGO gas system is self-regulating, meaning it adjusts to the pressure of the ammunition without any user input, ensuring consistent performance across different load types.
Is the Benelli M4 suitable for hunting?
While the Benelli M4 is primarily designed as a tactical or defensive shotgun, it can certainly be used for hunting, especially for larger game like deer with slugs, or for turkey hunting. The 18.5-inch barrel offers maneuverability in dense cover, which can be an advantage. However, for bird hunting where longer barrels are often preferred for swing and pattern density, other Benelli models like the M2 Field might be a more specialized choice.
What kind of maintenance does the Benelli M4 require?
Like any firearm, the Benelli M4 requires regular cleaning and lubrication to ensure reliable operation. The ARGO gas system is self-cleaning, which reduces the frequency of deep cleaning compared to some other gas systems, but it still benefits from routine attention. Pay particular attention to the barrel, bolt, and gas pistons. As an RSO, I always stress that proper maintenance is key to the longevity and safety of any firearm.
Where can I buy a Benelli M4 Tactical online?
You can purchase the Benelli M4 Tactical Anodized Black 12 Gauge 3in Semi and other firearms online through Kansas Gunshop at kansas-gunshop.com. As an FFL holder, we facilitate the transfer to your local FFL dealer, ensuring all legal requirements are met. We ship from Wichita, KS, and handle the paperwork on our end efficiently.
Does the Benelli M4 come with any accessories?
The Benelli M4 Tactical typically comes with standard accessories such as a choke wrench, instruction manual, and possibly a basic oil bottle. Specific inclusions can vary, but the main components like the ghost ring sights and Picatinny rail are integrated into the shotgun itself. We recommend checking the product listing or contacting us directly for the most current information on included accessories.
Is the Benelli M4 legal in all states?
Firearm legality varies significantly by state and even local jurisdiction. While the Benelli M4 is federally legal, some states have restrictions on features like magazine capacity, pistol grips, or semi-automatic shotguns in general. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws before purchasing. We can only ship to an FFL dealer who is authorized to receive the firearm in your jurisdiction.
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