Benelli Model M3 12 GA 20″ Convertible Pump / Semi-Automatic Shotgun 2000
SOLD FOR: $1500
LSB#: 220423FW006
Make: Benelli
Model: M3 Super 90
Serial Number: M422677
Year of Manufacture: 2000 (BN Date Code)
Gauge: 12 Gauge, 2 ¾” & 3” Shells
Action Type: Convertible Pump or Semi-Automatic, Inertia Operated, Tube Magazine Fed Shotgun.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BENELLI ARMI S.P.A. – URBINO – MADE IN ITALY”, with proof marks, and “BN” date code. The right side of the barrel is marked “12 GA. 3” – 76mm – FOR 2 ½” OR 3” SHELLS/ READ OWNERS MANUAL BEFORE USING GUN / C590344”. The right side of the receiver is marked “BENELLI U.S.A. CORP. -ACCOKEEK MD.- MADE IN ITALY” and “M422677”. The left side of the receiver is marked “12 GA. – M3 SUPER 90 – BENELLI – ITALY” and with proofs and the date code. The bolt is marked “BENELLI ARMI SYSTEM”.
Barrel Length: Nominal 20″, 19 3/4” Measured
Choke: The bore measures Fixed Improved Cylinder.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a post with a recessed white dot and is in a base with protective ears that is attached to a riser that is fixed to the barrel that is fixed to the barrel. The front sight is adjustable for windage and elevation. The rear sight is a ghost ring sight with two white dots in a base with two protective ears screwed to the receiver, it is adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece high-strength black synthetic set. The forend has vertical grooves and finger grooves. The buttstock has a grooved rubber pistol grip, a straight comb, and an ambidextrous sling mounting system, the forward mount is located on the magazine tube. There are some scattered scuffs and rubs but no heavy scratches. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 14 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the solid rubber recoil pad. The pad has some light wear. The stocks rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Matte Black with Alloy Receiver
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are some scattered little rubs and scuffs, some have thinned the finish. There is a faint hairline scratch on the top of the barrel at about the midsection. The pinheads are unmarred. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This shotgun allows the user to switch between pump and semi-automatic operation with the flip of an ambidextrous ring, located forward of the forend. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Benelli M3 is an updated version of the Benelli M1 shotgun. The M3 uses the same inertia recoil semi-automatic system as the earlier Benelli M1, but adds another Benelli-patented feature, which allows the shooter to lock the semi-automatic action and switch to the manually operated pump-action mode and back in the matter of seconds. The action type switch is located at the forward end of the forearm, and is formed as an annular knurled ring. Rotation of this ring either engages the action rods of the pump system and locks the semi-automatic recoil system, or disengages the action bars, locks the forearm and allows the inertia recoil system to operate the action automatically. This greatly improves the versatility of the shotgun, allowing it to fire low-powered ammunition (mostly of special purpose, such as less-lethal rubber or tear-gas projectiles) in the manually operated pump action mode, and to fire full power combat loads with slugs or buckshot in rapid semi-automatic mode. This shotgun has a bright bore with no erosion, the action works great and the sights should provide swift alignment for home defense or duty work. If you’re looking for your next shotgun, it would be hard to beat this rig! Please see our pictures and good luck!