m2 or m3

[africamagical]

So thinking about diving into the semi auto realm, and am pretty set on either a benelli m2, or m3,
I like the gimmick of the m3 having a pump mode, but I have heard it doesn't cycle too well with target loads,

is that just the airsoft kid who doesn't properly shoulder the gun?

I plan on shooting a wide range of ammo, and want it to cycle reliably, in semi auto,


Allready have a 870 for HD,
This will just be a clay / fun gun, and I am having trouble getting off this fence

TIA for the input

 

[throdgrain]

I've fired the M3, but it seems like a lot of trouble for nothing, particularly if you already have an 870.

I'd suggest the M2, I have one of those (and an 870) and it works faultlessly through tens of thousands of rounds.

 

[The Deer Hunter]

I have a Benelli M1S90 in 12 GA. the M2 is basically the same thing. It's a great gun, and it cycles every target load I put through it. I use it primarily for a trap gun, so pretty much all I shoot is 1 1/8 oz. shot, 2-3/4", #8s or #9s.

I think the appeal of the M3 is for policemen shooting things like bean bags or rubber balls, which supposedly, have little recoil. So when they go to shoot those they switch it over from semi to pump.

Taking your only going to be shooting clays, the pump mode of the M3 is probably useless. Can you even find them any more?

 

[africamagical]

ok, sounds like the m3 isnt worth the hassle,
Now do I want a 21 or 24" m2.....

Ive heard some people say that you can and others that you cant float an extra round in the m2,
is it something that is luck of the draw, or did something change in the model line?

 

[stiletto raggio]

I like my M3 just fine, but it is a PG and ghost rign set up. Not something I would use on clays. My first shotgun was a Benelli M1 and it has been 100 percent reliable with every type of load. If you aren't ben on getting a new one, I would look around for used M1s. The tactical guns bring a premium, but the field guns aren't too expensive. Mine cost me (and my dad) something like $550 when I got it.