Benelli has introduced the M2-G1, a new 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun built around an all-new Rear Piston Operated gas system that replaces the inertia-driven action the brand has used for decades, multiple outlets reported beginning August 17. The M2-G1 debuts in five configurations with MSRP ranging from $1,829 to $2,149, positioning the line as a platform for home defense, competition shooting, and general-purpose tactical use.

The RPO gas system is the defining engineering change. Benelli's traditional inertia system requires a firm shoulder to cycle reliably, making it sensitive to light loads and shooter technique. The dual short-stroke pistons of the RPO design are positioned near the chamber to reduce fouling exposure, and the gas operation provides more consistent cycling across a wider range of load weights without a firm shoulder hold — a meaningful advantage for slower follow-up shots, barricade positions, and suppressor-weight muzzle additions. Each configuration ships with an 18.5-inch barrel chambered for both 2 3/4 and 3-inch shells, ghost ring sights on a full-length Picatinny rail, an M-LOK forend, beveled loading port, enlarged controls, and QD sling attachment points. The gun carries a 10-year warranty.

The five launch variants offer buyers a range of stock and capacity choices. A gray fixed-stock model with 5+1 capacity opens the lineup at $1,829. A gray fixed-stock 7+1 steps up to $1,949, followed by a gray adjustable 5-position stock with 7+1 at $2,049. Two premium-finish variants — FDE and MultiCam Black, both on 5-position adjustable stocks with 7+1 capacity — top the lineup at $2,149 each. AllOutdoor and OutdoorHub both covered the launch on August 17 and noted that the five-position adjustable stock on the upper configurations uses a tool-less length-of-pull adjustment that accommodates a wide range of shooter builds.

The M2-G1 is Benelli's most direct play for the tactical and home-defense shotgun buyer who has traditionally been better served by gas-operated competitors like the Beretta 1301 Tactical and Mossberg 940 Pro Security. Benelli's inertia-system shotguns have earned a devoted following in hunting and competition, but the sensitivity to technique and load type has kept many tactical buyers at arm's length. The RPO gas system removes that barrier while keeping the M2-G1 mechanically simpler than some competing designs.

Dealer availability on the M2-G1 has not been separately announced, and Benelli has not disclosed specific ship dates. Buyers can check with Benelli dealers for availability on individual configurations, with the gray fixed-stock 5+1 entry-level variant likely reaching shelves first.