Best Benelli M4 Upgrades & Accessories
The Benelli M4 is one of the most popular shotguns ever, and there are many different Benelli M4 upgrades and accessories available due to its popularity. This article will go over the best parts and accessories to buy.
These shotguns are really good bone stock but with these Benelli M4 upgrades and accessories mentioned below, it will make this the ultimate self-defense shotgun and home defense shotgun.
All of these modifications will help improve the performance of the platform and will make the shotgun better. Some of these upgrades are expensive but worth it, and some of them are less expensive.
There are different price points for everyone to easily start.
In this article, I will list all of the best Benelli M4 upgrades and accessories.
What is a Benelli M4?
The Benelli M4 is a semi-automatic shotgun produced by Italian firearm manufacturer Benelli Armi SpA, and the last of the “Benelli Super 90” series of semi-automatic shotguns. The M4 uses a proprietary action design called the “auto-regulating gas-operated” (ARGO) system, which was created specifically for the weapon.
This weapon was designed in 1998, and was adopted by the armed forces of Italy, the United States, United Kingdom, among others, and has been used in a variety of conflicts, leading up to the present day.
The M4 was the first gas-operated shotgun produced by Benelli. Its function is designed around an entirely new design called the “auto-regulating gas-operated” (ARGO) system.
The short-stroke design uses two self-cleaning stainless steel pistons located just ahead of the chamber to function opposite a rotating bolt, thereby eliminating the need for the complex mechanisms found on other gas-actuated automatics.
The ARGO incorporates only four parts: two symmetrical fore-end shrouds containing two small steel pistons that push directly against the bolt.
Owning one of these shotguns is a dream come true and it is truly one of if not the best shotgun available on the market. If you are looking for the ultimate self-defense tactical shotgun then the Benelli M4 is the way to go.
With the upgrades and accessories mentioned below in this article, it will transform the shotgun and unlock its full potential.
Where To Purchase A Benelli M4
If you do not already own a Benelli M4 Click Here to check out the current prices and availability.
These are sometimes hard to find sitting on a shelf at a gun store. Even with the high price, they get swooped up quickly. In most cases, it is easier to just order one.
Benelli currently makes four different variations of the M4. Two with different finishes and the standard version and a pistol-grip version for each of the different coatings.
The H20 is much better for wet environments and will help prevent rust from forming on the shotgun.
Alright, time to get into it, here are the best Benelli M4 upgrades and accessories.
BENELLI M4 CURRENT MODELS IN PRODUCTION
- Click Here to view them on Benelli’s website
- Click Here to download the owner’s manual
Benelli M4 Stock Upgrade
Adding an improved stock that is also adjustable is a quick and easy accessory to add to your shotgun.
It will give your M4 a completely new look and feel.
Benelli M4 Collapsible Stock
When upgrading the stock, I recommend the Benelli M4 Collapsible Stock. It is a great improvement over the standard fixed length one.
This allows you to adjust the length of pull and lets you shorten it. If you are wearing a plate carrier or body armor then an adjustable stock is a must-have.
It also looks great on the firearm and is quick and easy to reposition.
The Benelli M4 collapsible stock collapses to three positions, fully collapsed, mid-position, and fully extended. The Benelli M4 collapsible stock does not require any special tools and is very easy to install.
It is a great improvement to the lop and length of the stock and an enhancement to the original design of the Benelli M4.
The only downside to this stock is that it is expensive and very hard to find. Even on the internet. If you are patient and keep checking you will eventually be able to find one at a reasonable price.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Benelli M4 Collapsible Stock
Benelli M4 Handguard Upgrade
With a different handguard that has mounting options, you can bring your M4 to its full potential.
Getting rid of the stock handguard and upgrading to a more modular one is a must.
Agency Arms Benelli M4 Handguard
Swapping out the original handguard is one of the first upgrades I did. The Agency Arms Benelli M4 Handguard is the absolute best handguard I found.
It is MLOK compatible and very light and slim, with a clean look that is streamlined.
This handguard will allow you to add any attachment you want while still keeping a minimal profile.
The Benelli M4 compatible MLOK handguard is machined from 6063 aluminum. It is 8.5″ in length and weighs in at 8.6 ounces fully assembled. The handguard features 38 full-size MLOK attachment slots (8 slots are partially blocked due to the pistons).
The handguard ships with the receiver and front barrel mount assembled. Please watch the installation video below as the screws are location specific.
Benelli M4 Handguard Specifications
- Material – 6063 Aluminum
- Length – 8.5″
- Weight – 8.6 oz
- Finish – Mil Spec Hard Anodized
- Fasteners – 6Al4V Titanium
- Includes a front Rail Mount and a Rear Receiver Mount
Click Here to check the current prices of The Agency Arms Benelli M4 Handguard
Benelli M4 Magazine Tube Extension
One downside of this shotgun is that it comes stock with a neutered magazine tube. It has a fake extension just for looks. Luckily it can be replaced with a real magazine tube extension.
To increase your shotgun’s capacity you will need to add an extended magazine tube.
Carlson 7-Shot Magazine Extension
The Carlson 7-Shot Magazine Extension does this and does it well. Also, it is not overpriced like most of the accessories for the Benelli M4.
It fits the factory Benelli M4 perfectly. It replaces the black fake extension that comes on the shotgun and fits the threading perfectly.
Using the shorter Benelli magazine spring, increased my capacity to 7 rounds of 2-3/4″ shells in the magazine tube plus one in the chamber.
Using 3″ shells you will be able to fit 6 and if you are using 3-1/2″ shells you will fit 5 rounds in the magazine tube plus one in the chamber.
It looks and feels well machined and the finish on it nearly matches the Benelli steel finish.
I highly recommend this product, especially at the price. Why pay the expensive price to replace the magazine tube completely when you can just add this cheaper extension for the same capacity?
Click Here to check the current prices of the Carlson 7-Shot Magazine Extension
Benelli M4 Choke Tube
Some people might think swapping out the choke tube is unnecessary on the M4 because it is a combat-style shotgun.
I disagree and believe in getting the most out of the platform.
Carlson Tactical Muzzle Brake
This gun comes with a standard modified choke tube which is a good general-purpose choke tube.
I personally recommend the Carlson Tactical Muzzle Brake.
Adding this cylinder choke tube will give you more options when it comes to ammunition and the different types of loads you are shooting.
The ports and jagged edge design allow gases to escape when using this choke for breaching situations.
It looks aggressive and compliments the M4 very well. It will shoot slugs, buckshot, whatever you want. The porting helps a lot with recoil on a shotgun that already has reduced recoil.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Carlson Tactical Muzzle Brake
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Benelli M4 Bolt Release
The standard bolt release is very small and annoying, it can definitely be upgraded to a much better option.
It may hinder your ability to operate the shotgun error free.
GG&G Benelli Tactical Bolt Release
GG&G Benelli Tactical Bolt Release is a large, super-fast bolt release pad that makes it far easier to find the small bolt release factory button.
During the high stress encountered in most tactical environments, it’s extremely difficult to locate the bolt release by feel.
The release button is oversized to make it easy to find, with a knurled surface for easy gripping.
It is both easy to locate by touch and manipulate, with or without gloves.
Click Here to check the current prices of the GG&G Benelli Tactical Bolt Release
Benelli M4 Charging Handle
Another shortcoming of the stock M4 is the charging handle. It is too small and does not protrude out far enough to get a good solid grip on it.
The best remedy for this problem is an oversized charging handle.
GG&G Charging Handle
The GG&G Charging Handle is an oversized charging handle that attaches directly to the bolt on the Benelli M4.
It greatly improves the surface area and gives you more room to grab the charging handle quickly without having your hand slip off.
The rough texture and knurled metal will work great in all conditions and whether or not moisture is present.
This is a quick and easy upgrade to the shotgun and I recommend everyone adds this accessory.
Click Here to check the current prices of the GG&G Charging Handle
Benelli M4 Side Saddle
One thing about a shotgun is that you are limited to how much ammo you can effectively carry. Magazine tube extensions help, but still only give you two more rounds.
Having a quick and easy way to carry more ammo on the gun itself is a good thing.
GG&G Side Saddle
The GG&G Side Saddle will add an additional 6 shells on the side of your shotgun. They are angled to help with quicker reloads.
This specific side saddle also has the option of adding a quick disconnect sling swivel attachment.
Important Consideration: Unlike other shotgun side saddle shell holders, the GG&G Side Saddle utilizes a solid rubber tube shell retainer versus a rubber tube shell retainer with sidewalls.
The Reason? The rubber tube type shell retained easily distorts from heat and continuous pressure of the shotgun shell. Over time the shell becomes loose in the shell holder.
Click Here to check the current prices of the GG&G Side Saddle
Benelli M4 Trigger
One of the best upgrades and accessories you can add to modify your stock shotgun is a premium trigger.
This will be one of the most noticeable improvements to your M4.
There are a couple of options when upgrading the trigger. Briley and Freedom Fighter Tactical are the two companies I recommend purchasing a premium trigger from.
These are not drop-in kits and will require a gunsmith to install them so keep that in mind.
Briley MFG Benelli M4 Trigger
The Briley MFG Trigger comes as close as it can to that found in a fine European style over and under shotgun and should certainly re-kindle positive thoughts of using an automatic.
Crisp, light and you will marvel at how quickly it resets with minimal travel. With the use of computer-assisted design, we have been able to accurately dial in the engagements resulting in desired trigger pulls.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Briley MFG Trigger
Briley A&S Enhanced Benelli M4 Trigger Guard
The A&S Enhanced Trigger Guard is a direct replacement for your OEM trigger guard. Simply remove your trigger guard from your shotgun.
This part is made of high-quality American milled aluminum. It is finished in a gunmetal grey hard anodize and laser marked. All of the machining in the shop and the metal finishing are sourced locally.
The design has a large scallop on the front to facilitate loading. It was developed in response to the double and quad loading techniques that have been developing in the 3 gun world over the last several years.
In testing, it was found that the feature dramatically improves single shell loading as well. It almost doubles the effective loading port area.
Click Here to check the current prices of the A&S Enhanced Trigger Guard
Freedom Fighter Tactical Benelli M4 Trigger Upgrade Kit
The FFT Trigger Upgrade Kit design and process to manufacture the premium trigger and trigger components were undertaken with great attention to detail to create a product far superior to the OEM piece in form, fit, and function.
For instance, the use of the trigger pack reduces trigger pull by approximately two pounds, bringing it from an average of 8.25 lbs to 6.25 pounds.
Designed and manufactured by a trigger expert with 30 years of trigger and trigger component manufacturing and assembly experience, both for the nation’s premier after-market trigger manufacturer, and a leading rifle manufacturer, this upgrade is a must for the serious shotgun operator using compatible shotguns.
Click Here to check the current prices of the FFT Trigger Upgrade Kit
Benelli M4 Optics
Time for the fun stuff. Being that the M4 is an unbelievably awesome shotgun, it would be a crime not to add an equally awesome optic.
With that being said, a premium red dot is what you should add when upgrading the optics. There are a few that I recommend and they all are at different price points.
Sig Romeo 4T
The Sig Sauer Romeo4T Tactical 1x20mm Red Dot Sight is the preferred choice of many elite military and governmental agencies, so you know it is a great option for rapid target acquisition in any terrain or light level.
These Red Dot Sights have typical Sig Sauer ruggedness and resistance to impact to keep on working through heavy recoil and tactical use.
Designed for modern semi-automatic pistols, MSR platforms, and shotguns, the Sig Sauer Romeo4T Tactical Red Dot lets you shoot with both eyes open to stay aware of the whole situation as it unfolds.
Install the Sig Sauer Romeo4T Tactical 1x20mm Red Dot for durable, reliable sighting of moving targets and developing scenarios.
The circle plex reticle is ideal for a shotgun setup and will allow you to acquire your target very fast.
The mount is also included with the red dot.
Specifications for Sig Sauer Romeo4T Tactical 1x20mm Compact Red Dot Sight w/Mount:
| Finish: | Matte |
| Fabric/Material: | 7075 Aluminum |
| Magnification: | 1 x |
| Objective Lens Diameter: | 20 mm |
| Illumination Color: | Red |
| Brightness Settings: | 10 |
| Eye Relief: | Unlimited |
| Adjustment Type: | MOA |
| Adjustment Click Value: | 0.5 MOA |
| Lens Material: | Glass |
| Optical Coating: | HDX |
| Attachment/Mount Type: | Bolt |
| Battery Type: | CR2032 |
| Battery Quantity: | 1 |
| Battery Life: | 100000 hours |
| Operating Temperature: | -40 – 140 Fahrenheit |
| Weather Resistance: | Yes |
| Water Resistance Level: | IPX-8 |
| Water Resistant Mark: | 400 m |
| Shockproof: | Yes |
| Fogproof: | Yes |
| Length: | 3.33 in |
| Width: | 1.83 in |
| Height: | 2.46 in |
| Weight: | 11 oz |
| Included Accessories: | Batteries, Lens Cloth, Mounting Tool, Mount, Lens Covers |
| Package Type: | Box |
| Magnification Type: | Fixed |
| Quantity: | 1 |
| Front Sight Color: | Red |
| W/E Travel at 100 Yds: | 100 MOA |
Features of Sig Sauer Romeo4T Tactical 1x20mm Compact Red Dot Sight, Mount, SD9-RD-SSR4TRD:
- Designed for modern semi-automatic pistols, MSR platforms, and shotguns.
- Short and medium-range engagements and recreational shooting across a wide range of calibers and light conditions.
- Fully ruggedized and impact resistant for the toughest environments.
- Ultra-durable and lightweight 7075 aluminum main housing and components.
- 1.41-inch riser mount with additional lower 1/3 co-witness spacer.
- Comes standard with see-through lens covers and hex bolt mount.
- Runtime in excess of 100,000 hours with solar and battery usage.
- Unlimited eye relief to acquire aiming point and target, regardless of eye position behind sight.
- MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination) powers up or down when sensing motion.
- Uses an ultra-efficient red LED for daylight visibility and extended runtime.
- Bolt mount included.
- Complete Mil-Spec 810G testing, submersible up to 20 meters.
- Waterproof, IPX-8 rated, and fog-proof.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Sig Romeo 4T
Trijicon MRO HD
The Trijicon MRO HD is a reflex-style, sealed sight intended for use on rifles, carbines, and shotguns to provide fast target acquisition. It is designed to be used with both eyes open, providing the operator with maximum situational awareness.
The large aperture and tapered light path maximize the viewing area in such a small optic, allowing for fast target engagement, especially from non-standard shooting positions.
It also features ambidextrous brightness controls, sub-flush adjusters, advanced lens coatings, and a fully sealed, waterproof, hard anodized forged 7075-T6 housing, making the MRO the ultimate mini reflex sight.
The MRO HD is optimized for use with a magnifier, with a re-engineered objective lens to produce a refined 2.0 MOA center dot surrounded by a 68 MOA segmented circle reticle.
The ambidextrous reticle and brightness control allows the user to choose between a full reticle or center dot only.
Specifications for Trijicon MRO HD 1x25mm Red Dot Sights:
| Color: | Black |
| Finish: | Matte |
| Fabric/Material: | 7075-T6 forged aluminum |
| Magnification: | 1 x |
| Objective Lens Diameter: | 25 mm |
| Reticle: | 68 MOA ring w/ single 2 MOA dot |
| Illumination Type: | LED |
| Eye Relief: | Infinite |
| Adjustment Type: | MOA |
| Battery Type: | CR2032 |
| Operating Temperature: | -60 – 160 Fahrenheit |
| Length: | 2.9 in |
| Width: | 1.7 in |
| Magnification Type: | Fixed |
Features of Trijicon MRO HD 1x25mm Red Dot Sights
- Fully Ambidextrous Knob
- Easy Grip Adjustment Knurl
- Multiple Illumination Settings
- 1/2 MOA Sub-Flush Adjusters prevent accidental adjustment
- Forged 7075 Aluminum Housing
- Waterproof 100ft/30m submersion
- Large Objective lens
- Fully Multi-Coated Broadband Anti-Reflective Glass
Click Here to check the current prices of the Trijicon MRO HD
Aimpoint Micro T-2
Designed to be the ideal sight for tactical applications, the Aimpoint Micro T-2 Red Dot Rifle Sight – 2MOA is the result of the feedback given by law enforcement and military professionals.
The sight housing of these Red Dot Sights from the tactical experts at Aimpoint have cutting edge lens coatings that radically improve the shape and clarity of the 2MOA red dot.
Physical protection has been added around the adjustment turrets, and internal changes to protect the electronic components of the Aimpoint T2 Micro Red Dot Weapon Sight.
The sealed tube design of this Aimpoint Red Dot Sight means that snow, rain, dust, mud, or sand will not hinder the use of your sight, or ever get in between you and your target.
The Aimpoint Red Dot Micro T-2 Sight can be mounted on nearly any individual weapon platform, as it comes with an integrated mount that suits Picatinny and Weaver rails. This sight is compatible with all generations of night vision devices.
Made to provide the battle-proven ruggedness of other Aimpoint sights, the Aimpoint 1x Micro T-2 Red Dot Sight w/ 2MOA Dot has the ability to work perfectly in extreme conditions while keeping user friendly.
Specifications for Aimpoint Micro T-2 2 MOA Red Dot Reflex Sight:
| Color: | Black |
| Finish: | Semi Matte, Anodized |
| Fabric/Material: | Aluminum |
| Magnification: | 1 x |
| Objective Lens Diameter: | 18 mm |
| Reticle: | 2 MOA Dot |
| Illumination Type: | LED |
| Illumination Color: | Red |
| Brightness Settings: | 12 |
| Eye Relief: | Unlimited |
| Adjustment Click Value: | 0.4 in at 100 yds |
| Parallax: | Free |
| Optical Coating: | Multi-Coated |
| Light Transmission: | 70 % |
| Battery Type: | Lithium, CR2032 |
| Battery Quantity: | 1 |
| Battery Life: | 7,300 – 50,000 hours |
| Operating Temperature: | -45 – 71 Celsius, -49 – 160 Fahrenheit |
| Water Resistance Level: | Waterproof |
| Water Resistant Mark: | 80 ft |
| Gun Make: | Universal |
| Gun Model: | Universal |
| Length: | 2.7 in |
| Width: | 1.6 in |
| Height: | 1.4 in |
| Weight: | 3.3 oz |
| Package Type: | Box |
| Magnification Type: | Fixed |
| Lens Finish: | Multi-Layer Anti-Reflex |
| Quantity: | 1 |
| Switch Type: | Rotary Switch |
| Wavelength: | 650 nm |
Features of Aimpoint Micro T-2 2 MOA Red Dot Reflex Sight:
- Ideal for rifles, carbines, shotguns, submachine guns, and handguns
- Flip-up lens covers – front is solid, and rear is transparent – allowing the user to shoot with both eyes open and lens caps closed in an emergency situation
- Reinforced protection of the turrets for even greater ruggedness
- Integral Picaninny-style base allows easy attachment to any rail
- Anodized high strength aluminum housing, semi-matte black
- Use as a standalone sight or piggybacked on larger magnifying, thermal, or night vision optics
- NVD compatible
Click Here to check the current prices of the Aimpoint Micro T-2
Benelli M4 Light
There are two really good options when it comes to a good weapon light and setup. I use both of these on different firearms.
The Surefire M600 and the Streamlight HL-X are both premium lights. The M600 is slightly better but is also more expensive.
Surefire M600
If you want the absolute best weapon light for your Benelli M4 then the Surefire M600 is the one.
The M600U Scout Light is a lightweight WeaponLight featuring an ultra-high-output LED that delivers 1000 lumens of blinding white light.
A proprietary TIR lens shapes the recoil-proof LED’s light into a beam with plenty of reach but enough surround light to accommodate peripheral vision, making the M600U ideal for medium to longer-range applications.
The rugged M600U attaches quickly and securely to any MIL-STD-1913 rail via its integral thumbscrew clamp. The light is activated by either clicking its push-button tail cap switch or by pressing the pressure-activated tape switch.
Constructed of lightweight aerospace aluminum, Mil-Spec Hard Anodized finish, and O-ring sealed to keep out the elements, the tough M600U will endure combat-like conditions without any sacrifice in weapon maneuverability.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Surefire M600
Surefire M600 Tail Cap Pressure Switch
Adding a pressure switch will allow you to have momentary on instead of constant on. The Surefire Tail Cap Pressure Switch will replace the tail cap button.
It will still have a button for constant on and off as well. This is the best setup for any weapon mounted light.
This specific pressure switch is designed to slide into the mount I talk about next.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Surefire Tail Cap Pressure Switch
Benelli M4 Light Mount
The Cloud Defensive LCS Mount is the best way to mount the Surefire pressure switch to an MLOK rail system.
If you just use the tail cap switch then you will not need this mount. But if you want the ultimate setup then this is what you should get.
It is a low-profile design and it has great cable management. There are channels under the mount to route the cable through.
The pressure switch fits snug and you don’t have to worry about anything falling off. It is a rock-solid set up and very clean and streamlined.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Cloud Defensive LCS
Streamlight HL-X
My second recommendation for a good weapon light on the Benelli M4 is definitely the Streamlight ProTac HL-X.
Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount HL-X Long Gun Light features an integrated fixed mount for Picatinny rails.
These high lumen Gun Mounted Flashlights from Streamlight come with a remote pressure switch and a push-button tail switch for various uses.
The Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount HL-X Long Gun Light with strobe option can be used as a handheld light that allows one-handed operation.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Streamlight ProTac HL-X
Benelli M4 Light Mount
After you have decided on what light to get, you will know need a good way to mount it in a forward position on the shotgun.
Impact weapons components makes the best light for this shotgun. It is a very low-profile 1″ mount setup that attaches to the magazine tube.
Multi Light Benelli M4 Mount is a simplistic, reliable, and an ultra-Lightweight design that contains only the materials needed to meet the objective of attaching a light to the Benelli M4 Weapon System.
Designed with two AMBI Light mounting locations, you can place the tail cap of the light in either the 1:00 or 11:00 position. Positions your tail cap on your weapon for activation by your support hand thumb.
Multi Light Benelli M4 Mount-N-Slot positions the bezel of the light above the barrel and on your support side to eliminate all shadows, improving your ability to confirm the threat in no-light situations.
Mount contains two AMBI Rotation Limited QD Sling Mounts, eliminating the need for the factory sling loop mount, saving weight.
It barely takes up any space on the shotgun and will work for both the Surefire M600 and the Streamlight HL-X
Click Here to check the current prices of the Multi Light Benelli M4 Mount
Benelli M4 Sling
No shotgun setup is complete without a good adjustable sling. I like using 2 point slings because they are the most comfortable and user friendly.
You don’t need anything fancy when it comes to a sling even though companies are constantly trying to reinvent the wheel. A simple 2 point sling still is the best option.
Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling
The Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling is my absolute favorite 2 point sling. It is padded just the right about and is quick and easy to adjust while carrying or shooting.
It has a nylon tab that you pull to adjust the length and has QD swivels to connect the sling to your shotgun.
They also offer a few different colors and camo patterns.
This is my go-to sling for all of my firearm setups.
Click Here to check the current prices of the Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling
Complete List of Items Mentioned
(Click the links for the most up to date prices)
- Benelli M4 Collapsible Stock
- Agency Arms Benelli M4 Handguard
- Carlson 7-Shot Magazine Extension
- Carlson Tactical Muzzle Brake
- GG&G Benelli Tactical Bolt Release
- GG&G Charging Handle
- GG&G Side Saddle
- Briley MFG Trigger
- A&S Enhanced Trigger Guard
- FFT Trigger Upgrade Kit
- Sig Sauer Romeo4T
- Trijicon MRO HD
- Aimpoint Micro T-2
- Surefire M600
- Surefire Tail Cap Pressure Switch
- Cloud Defensive LCS Mount
- Streamlight ProTac HL-X
- Multi Light Benelli M4 Mount
- Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling
Great review! Quick question….what kind of finish is on your M4 pictured? Hydro dipping? Something else? Did you send it out to have it done? If so, by who? Thanks in advance and thanks for your service!