The Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry Made a Bold First Impression
The Benelli M4 is legendary, a battle-proven shotgun that has earned its stripes in some of the harshest environments imaginable. But even legends can be improved. That’s where the Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry from Black River Manufacturing comes in, promising to tame recoil and reduce muzzle rise. This aftermarket barrel aims to elevate the M4 from excellent to exceptional.
I’ve always been a proponent of maximizing the potential of any firearm. The factory Benelli M4 is already a beast, but I wanted to see if I could push its performance envelope further. I’ve dealt with enough heavy recoil platforms to know the value of effective recoil mitigation, especially in rapid-fire scenarios. The lure of faster follow-up shots and increased accuracy was irresistible.
Unboxing the Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry, my initial impression was solid. The grey finish is aesthetically pleasing, offering a subtle but distinct upgrade over the factory black. The weight felt appropriate, suggesting quality materials and construction. The included ported choke was a welcome bonus, signaling the manufacturer’s commitment to optimizing performance.
Compared to other aftermarket barrels, like those from Freedom Fighter Tactical, I chose the Black River Manufacturing option due to its drilled 4140 steel construction. Black River Manufacturing emphasized this, claiming increased strength and durability compared to extruded barrels. This, coupled with the included ported choke, sold me on the complete package. My first impression was one of eager anticipation. It was exciting to see how much this barrel would improve my Benelli M4.
Real-World Testing: Putting Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry at my local shooting range, a relatively controlled environment to gauge initial performance. I ran a variety of loads, from light target loads to heavy 3″ magnum buckshot, to get a feel for its recoil-reducing capabilities across the spectrum. The most obvious difference was a noticeable decrease in muzzle climb, allowing for faster target reacquisition.
Even in slightly damp conditions, the grip was maintained, and recoil was easily managed. The barrel swap was simple and straightforward, requiring no specialized tools. After the first magazine, there were no issues or surprises; the barrel functioned flawlessly, cycling every round without a hiccup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to hundreds of rounds. The chrome lining has held up beautifully, showing no signs of erosion or pitting, even after cleaning with aggressive solvents.
Cleaning and maintenance are a breeze. Carbon buildup around the ports is easily removed with a solvent-soaked brush. Compared to my previous experience with a non-ported barrel, the Black River Manufacturing barrel provides a considerable improvement in recoil management. Its reliability and durability exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry
Specifications
- Length: 18.5 inches. This is an ideal length for maintaining maneuverability without sacrificing ballistic performance.
- Brand: Black River Manufacturing. A company known for its dedication to quality and performance.
- Choke Thread: Benelli Mobil. This is a common and versatile choke thread pattern, offering a wide range of aftermarket choke options.
- Gauge: 12 Gauge. The standard and widely available shotgun gauge.
- Material: 4140 Steel. Known for its strength and durability, especially compared to 4130 steel.
- Models Fit: Benelli M4, Benelli M1014. Ensures compatibility with the most popular Benelli tactical shotgun.
- Shell Length: 2 3/4″ and 3″. Provides flexibility in ammunition selection.
- Lining: Chrome Lined. Enhances corrosion resistance and ease of cleaning.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and longevity of the barrel. The 4140 steel ensures durability under heavy use, while the chrome lining protects against rust and facilitates cleaning.
Performance & Functionality
The Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry excels in recoil reduction and muzzle rise mitigation. The porting effectively vents gases, counteracting the upward force of recoil. It significantly improves follow-up shot speed and accuracy, especially during rapid-fire drills.
A slight downside is increased muzzle blast, which is typical of ported barrels. However, the benefits in recoil reduction far outweigh this minor inconvenience. The Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry delivers on its promises.
Design & Ergonomics
The grey finish gives the Benelli M4 a tactical, yet sleek look. The barrel’s weight distribution maintains the M4’s balance. The build quality is superb, with clean lines and precise port placement.
The barrel is inherently user-friendly, requiring no modifications or adjustments. It seamlessly integrates with the Benelli M4’s existing operating system.
Durability & Maintenance
The 4140 steel construction and chrome lining ensure long-term durability. The barrel can withstand the rigors of frequent shooting and harsh environmental conditions. Simple cleaning with standard gun solvents and brushes is all that’s needed to maintain optimal performance.
The Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry will likely outlast the factory barrel with proper care. Regular maintenance is key to preserving its performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The included ported extended choke #5 is a great starting point. The Benelli Mobil choke thread allows for a wide range of aftermarket choke options. This includes chokes for different shooting applications, such as tactical breaching, hunting, or competition.
The barrel is compatible with all standard Benelli M4 accessories, such as sights, lights, and forends. The customization options are virtually limitless.
Pros and Cons of Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry
Pros
- Significantly reduced recoil and muzzle rise for faster follow-up shots.
- Durable 4140 steel construction with a corrosion-resistant chrome lining.
- Easy to install and maintain, seamlessly integrating with the Benelli M4.
- Aesthetically pleasing grey finish provides a subtle but distinct upgrade.
- The Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern allows for a wide range of choke options.
Cons
- Increased muzzle blast may be noticeable to some shooters.
- Ported barrels can be slightly more difficult to clean due to carbon buildup around the ports.
Who Should Buy Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry?
The Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry is perfect for tactical shooters, competition shooters, and anyone looking to maximize the performance of their Benelli M4. It’s ideal for individuals who prioritize recoil management, faster follow-up shots, and increased accuracy. Home defense users who train frequently and need to be able to quickly reacquire their target will also greatly benefit.
Those who prioritize maximum concealment, or are particularly sensitive to muzzle blast might want to skip this product. Also, shooters who prefer the classic look of the factory barrel might not appreciate the grey finish.
A must-have modification would be a high-quality recoil pad to further reduce felt recoil. A weapon light is another highly recommended accessory for home defense or tactical applications.
Conclusion on Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry
The Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone seeking to enhance the performance of their Benelli M4. The recoil reduction and muzzle rise mitigation are substantial, leading to faster follow-up shots and increased accuracy. The Black River Manufacturing barrel is built to last and seamlessly integrates with the existing M4 platform.
At $210.49, the price is justified given the performance gains and the high-quality materials used in its construction. It offers a significant improvement over the factory barrel without breaking the bank.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Benelli M4 Ported Barrel- Grey – No Concealed Carry to any Benelli M4 owner looking to take their shotgun to the next level. Upgrade your Benelli M4 today and experience the difference!