Benelli Montefeltro

Montefeltro vs Benelli M2: Choosing Within the Benelli Lineup

The Montefeltro and Benelli M2 are the two most similar guns in Benelli’s field lineup, both using the same inertia system. The key difference is the receiver design: the Montefeltro uses a rotating bolt with the inertia spring inside the stock, giving a slimmer profile and slightly lighter weight. The M2 uses Benelli’s updated ComforTech stock with gel pads for recoil reduction, making it softer to shoot with heavy loads. The Montefeltro is the classic, traditional choice—lighter, simpler, and available in a walnut-stocked configuration that suits hunters who prefer traditional aesthetics. The M2 is the modern upgraded option with better recoil management for high-volume shooting or light-framed shooters. Both are exceptional field guns.

Benelli Inertia System: Why It Matters in the Field

Benelli’s inertia system uses the rearward force of recoil to cycle the action rather than tapping gas from the barrel. When the gun fires, the bolt assembly compresses a strong inertia spring, which then releases and drives the bolt rearward to eject the spent shell and chamber the next round. This design has no gas ports to foul, no gas pistons to clean, and no valves to adjust — the action stays cleaner longer and requires less maintenance than gas-operated semi-autos. The tradeoff is that inertia systems require a minimum recoil impulse to cycle, meaning very light loads that don’t generate enough force may not cycle reliably. With standard target loads and heavier, this is not a practical concern.

Montefeltro 20 Gauge: The Youth and Upland Option

The Benelli Montefeltro 20-gauge is one of the most popular upland hunting shotguns available. At 5.6 pounds, it is light enough for all-day carry through grouse, woodcock, and pheasant cover while delivering the fast cycling of a semi-auto for follow-up shots on flushing birds. The 20-gauge Montefeltro is also commonly recommended for smaller-framed shooters and youth hunters who find 12-gauge recoil uncomfortable—the lighter payload and the Montefeltro’s light weight combine to produce a very manageable shooting experience. Available in 24-inch and 26-inch barrel lengths with a set of choke tubes.

Montefeltro Walnut vs Synthetic: Which to Choose

The Montefeltro is available in both walnut-stocked and synthetic-stocked configurations. The walnut version is the traditional choice—it is lighter, warmer to the touch in cold weather, and aesthetically classic in a way that synthetic cannot replicate. The synthetic version is more weather-resistant and easier to maintain in wet or muddy conditions. For upland hunting in dry country, walnut is the traditional and beautiful choice. For waterfowl hunting, hunting in rain, or buyers who want a gun that can be cleaned without worry, the synthetic version is the more practical option. Both use the same action, barrel, and choke system.

Montefeltro Chokes and Accessories

The Benelli Montefeltro uses Benelli’s proprietary Crio choke system, which is compatible with Benelli Crio Plus chokes from the broader aftermarket. Standard configurations ship with Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full chokes. Extended chokes for turkey, waterfowl, and slug use are available from Benelli and Carlson’s. The Montefeltro’s slim receiver does not accept all aftermarket accessories designed for the M2 or SBE3, so verify compatibility when purchasing stocks or recoil pads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Montefeltro better than the M2? Neither is strictly better — the Montefeltro is lighter and simpler with classic walnut styling, while the M2 adds ComforTech recoil reduction and more configuration options. Choose based on whether traditional feel or recoil management matters more to you.

What gauge is best for a new upland hunter on the Montefeltro? The 20 gauge is the most commonly recommended option for new and smaller-framed hunters, offering lighter weight and softer recoil than the 12 gauge with little practical performance loss on upland birds.

Does the Montefeltro come in synthetic? Yes, alongside the traditional walnut-stocked version, for buyers who want more weather resistance and easier maintenance.

See Also: Benelli • Benelli M2 • Semi-Auto Shotguns • 20 Gauge Shotguns • 12 Gauge Shotguns