{ "apiVersion": 1, "kind": "work-order", "purpose": "Taking the firearm apart for a job such as refinishing, and putting it back together to specification.", "firearm": { "slug": "benelli-m4", "name": "Benelli M4", "manufacturer": { "id": "benelli", "name": "Benelli Armi" }, "category": "shotgun", "action": "gas-operated-short-stroke", "calibers": [ "12 gauge" ], "alsoKnownAs": [ "M1014", "M4 Super 90", "Benelli M4 Tactical" ], "coversAlso": [ "Benelli M1014", "Benelli M4 Tactical and H2O variants" ], "page": "firearms/benelli-m4.html", "bundle": "api/v1/firearms/benelli-m4.json", "lastUpdated": "2026-10-29" }, "notices": [ "This work order is written for the Benelli M4. It is reported to cover Benelli M1014; Benelli M4 Tactical and H2O variants — if the firearm on the bench is one of those, check the torque notes: values do not always carry over.", "No manufacturer torque values are recorded. The values listed are reported by other sources, not the manufacturer — confirm them before use." ], "disclaimer": { "headline": "Read this before you use anything here.", "points": [ "This is a guide, not an authority. Entries are compiled from manufacturer manuals, technical manuals, published references, and community knowledge. Some of it comes from sources that are not authoritative, and some of it may simply be wrong.", "Always consult the manufacturer's manual for your specific firearm and serial-number range. Manufacturers change designs mid-production without renaming the model. The manual that shipped with your firearm outranks anything on this site.", "Consult a licensed gunsmith for anything beyond routine field stripping and cleaning, for any firearm you are unsure about, and for any procedure marked as gunsmith-recommended here.", "Treat every firearm as loaded. Verify it is unloaded, with the magazine removed and the chamber physically and visually checked, before any procedure in this database. Point it in a safe direction the entire time.", "Disassembly can damage a firearm or injure you. Springs are under tension, parts can launch, and reassembling a firearm incorrectly can make it unsafe to fire in a way that is not obvious from the outside. If a reassembled firearm does not pass a function check, stop and see a gunsmith.", "Torque values are shown in two groups. Values from the manufacturer or the issuing military are shown as such, with the document they came from. Values reported by anyone else — parts makers, gunsmithing publishers, articles, forums — are shown separately with who said them, how reliable that source is, and their exact words. Those are not specifications. Confirm any torque value with the manufacturer or a licensed gunsmith before relying on it.", "Nothing here is legal advice. Firearms law varies by country, state, and city, and some modifications or configurations are regulated or prohibited. You are responsible for knowing and following the law where you are.", "No warranty of any kind. Contributors and maintainers accept no liability for damage, injury, or loss arising from use of this material." ], "page": "disclaimer.html", "legal": { "summary": "Legal notice: this material is third-party information compiled from sources of varying reliability and is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not gunsmithing, technical, safety or legal advice, it is not verified or endorsed by any manufacturer, and it must not be taken as fact. Any work on a firearm beyond the routine field stripping described in its own owner's manual should be performed only by a licensed and insured gunsmith. You use this material entirely at your own risk. Fundamental Build LLC and the project's contributors make no warranty of any kind and accept no liability for death, injury, damage or loss arising from its use. Full terms: LEGAL.md.", "page": "legal.html", "notice": "https://github.com/Fundamental-build-LLC/Pew-Takedown/blob/main/LEGAL.md" } }, "sourcing": { "confidence": "medium", "verification": "community-reviewed" }, "manufacturerDisassembly": { "status": "published", "limit": null, "statement": "Benelli's manual strips the M4 to barrel, bolt, trigger group, stock/pistol grip and gas pistons without tools, and does not tell owners to go no further.", "source": { "title": "M4 Tactical Shotgun Product Manual", "publisher": "Benelli USA / Benelli Armi S.p.A.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://www.benelliusa.com/sites/default/files/content/media/manuals/2019-10/M4%20Tactical%20Shotgun%20Product%20Manual.pdf", "page": "88", "pdfPage": 89, "pageUrl": "https://www.benelliusa.com/sites/default/files/content/media/manuals/2019-10/M4%20Tactical%20Shotgun%20Product%20Manual.pdf#page=89", "quote": "The gun is now completely stripped: the parts to be inspected and cleaned are all separated." } }, "recalls": [], "shopTier": { "tier": 2, "group": "shotgun", "rating": "Pew-Takedown editorial rating (1 easy – 3 hardest), not the manufacturer's", "reason": "More systems than the inertia guns (twin gas pistons and cylinder plugs, rotating bolt with cam pin, link and recoil spring tube in the stock) and the Marine Corps stops operators at field strip, but each step is a single orientation or held-spring trap rather than timing. Top of Tier 2.", "confidence": "medium", "partCount": null, "painPoints": [ { "issue": "The Marine Corps manual stops operator disassembly at the field strip; anything past that is armorer work.", "during": "both", "source": { "title": "TM 10698A-10/1 (preliminary): Preliminary TM 10698A-10/1, U.S. Marine Corps Technical Manual: Operator's Manual for Shotgun, Combat, 12 Gauge, Semi-Automatic, M1014 (1005-01-472-3147) [For Official Use Only]", "publisher": "Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps (Marine Corps Systems Command)", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://archive.org/download/benelli-m-4-usmc-manual/Benelli%20M4%20%28USMC%20Manual%29_text.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Only a trained armorer may proceed beyond this level ofdisassembly." } }, { "issue": "The firing pin is pushed in against its spring while the retaining pin is inserted, and the pin must not be pushed fully behind the firing pin.", "during": "reassembly", "source": { "title": "TM 10698A-10/1 (preliminary): Preliminary TM 10698A-10/1, U.S. Marine Corps Technical Manual: Operator's Manual for Shotgun, Combat, 12 Gauge, Semi-Automatic, M1014 (1005-01-472-3147) [For Official Use Only]", "publisher": "Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps (Marine Corps Systems Command)", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://archive.org/download/benelli-m-4-usmc-manual/Benelli%20M4%20%28USMC%20Manual%29_text.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Press ın on the back of the firing pin with your finger against spring tension" } }, { "issue": "The two gas pistons have a front and a back; reversed they will not seal, and both must enter their holes in the receiver as the barrel goes on.", "during": "reassembly", "source": { "title": "TM 10698A-10/1 (preliminary): Preliminary TM 10698A-10/1, U.S. Marine Corps Technical Manual: Operator's Manual for Shotgun, Combat, 12 Gauge, Semi-Automatic, M1014 (1005-01-472-3147) [For Official Use Only]", "publisher": "Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps (Marine Corps Systems Command)", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://archive.org/download/benelli-m-4-usmc-manual/Benelli%20M4%20%28USMC%20Manual%29_text.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Install the gas pistons into the gas cylinders with the long extension facing the rear of the barrel" } }, { "issue": "When the bolt goes back in, the link has to slide over the trigger guard and onto the recoil spring plunger hidden inside the receiver; if it misses, the gun will not cycle and the plunger can be damaged.", "during": "reassembly", "source": { "title": "M4 Tactical Shotgun Product Manual", "publisher": "Benelli USA / Benelli Armi S.p.A.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://www.benelliusa.com/sites/default/files/content/media/manuals/2019-10/M4%20Tactical%20Shotgun%20Product%20Manual.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "make sure that the link slides over the trigger guard assembly and onto the recoil spring plunger inside the receiver once the bolt assembly is fully mounted" } }, { "issue": "The magazine cap and spring seal ring are under considerable spring tension when the magazine is stripped.", "during": "both", "source": { "title": "TM 10698A-10/1 (preliminary): Preliminary TM 10698A-10/1, U.S. Marine Corps Technical Manual: Operator's Manual for Shotgun, Combat, 12 Gauge, Semi-Automatic, M1014 (1005-01-472-3147) [For Official Use Only]", "publisher": "Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps (Marine Corps Systems Command)", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://archive.org/download/benelli-m-4-usmc-manual/Benelli%20M4%20%28USMC%20Manual%29_text.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Thecomponents ofthemagazine areunderconsiderable springtension" } } ], "minutes": { "strip": 60, "rebuild": 85, "basis": "estimated", "note": "Strip of bolt (cam pin, firing pin), twin gas pistons and plugs, trigger group, magazine and stock/receiver extension; rebuild longer for pistons, link alignment and magazine spring seal ring.", "source": null }, "stripScope": [ { "assembly": "Barrel / gas", "removes": [ "magazine cap", "forearm halves", "barrel", "gas cylinder plugs", "two gas pistons (direction noted)" ] }, { "assembly": "Magazine", "removes": [ "magazine spring seal ring", "magazine spring", "follower" ] }, { "assembly": "Receiver", "removes": [ "trigger group locking pin and trigger group", "bolt handle", "bolt group" ] }, { "assembly": "Bolt", "removes": [ "firing pin retaining pin, firing pin and spring", "cam pin", "bolt head", "extractor" ] }, { "assembly": "Stock", "removes": [ "telescoping or fixed stock", "pistol grip", "recoil spring tube / receiver extension (bare-receiver jobs)" ], "tools": [ "receiver extension wrench" ] } ], "hardware": null, "specialTools": [ { "tool": "Bolt handle (used as the issued tool)", "usedFor": "Gas cylinder plugs and trigger group pin" }, { "tool": "18-19 mm or 1-1/16 in. wrench on the receiver extension flats", "usedFor": "Receiver extension removal (bare-receiver jobs)" }, { "tool": "Punch set", "usedFor": "Bolt pins" } ], "fitOnRebuild": [ { "check": "Gas pistons installed long extension rearward and entering the receiver holes", "why": "Reversed or misaligned pistons will not seal and the gun will not cycle.", "source": { "title": "TM 10698A-10/1 (preliminary): Preliminary TM 10698A-10/1, U.S. Marine Corps Technical Manual: Operator's Manual for Shotgun, Combat, 12 Gauge, Semi-Automatic, M1014 (1005-01-472-3147) [For Official Use Only]", "publisher": "Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps (Marine Corps Systems Command)", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://archive.org/download/benelli-m-4-usmc-manual/Benelli%20M4%20%28USMC%20Manual%29_text.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Install the gas pistons into the gas cylinders with the long extension facing the rear of the barrel" } }, { "check": "Link aligned with the recoil spring tube", "why": "Bolt must move freely; a misaligned link binds.", "source": { "title": "TM 10698A-10/1 (preliminary): Preliminary TM 10698A-10/1, U.S. Marine Corps Technical Manual: Operator's Manual for Shotgun, Combat, 12 Gauge, Semi-Automatic, M1014 (1005-01-472-3147) [For Official Use Only]", "publisher": "Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps (Marine Corps Systems Command)", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://archive.org/download/benelli-m-4-usmc-manual/Benelli%20M4%20%28USMC%20Manual%29_text.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "handle to insure that the link and recoil spring tube are aligned" } }, { "check": "Function check: safety, trigger/sear release, disconnector and feeding with dummy rounds", "why": "Standard after any detail strip; a mis-assembled sear or disconnector can double or fail to fire.", "source": null } ], "assessed": "2026-10-29" }, "videos": [], "configurations": [], "tools": [], "phases": [ { "id": "clear", "title": "Clear and make safe", "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Point the muzzle in a safe direction and keep your finger off the trigger." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Engage the crossbolt safety at the trigger guard." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Pull the bolt handle rearward to eject any chambered shell and lock the bolt open.", "partsFreed": [ "Chambered shell, if present" ] }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Cycle the action repeatedly, catching each shell as it ejects, until no more shells feed from the magazine tube." }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "With the action open, inspect the chamber and look up the magazine tube with a light.", "warning": "The chamber AND the tube. A shell hung up in the tube is easy to miss." }, { "n": 6, "instruction": "Physically confirm the chamber is empty and remove all live ammunition from the work area." } ], "videos": [] }, { "id": "disassemble", "title": "Disassemble", "videos": [], "procedures": [ { "procedure": "field-strip", "title": "Field Strip", "level": "field-strip", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Complete the Clear and Make Safe procedure." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Unscrew the magazine cap from the end of the magazine tube and remove the forend.", "partsFreed": [ "Magazine cap", "Forend" ] }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Pull the barrel forward off the magazine tube and out of the receiver.", "partsFreed": [ "Barrel" ] }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Withdraw the two gas pistons from their cylinders in the barrel assembly, noting their orientation.", "warning": "Note which way each piston faces before it comes out.", "partsFreed": [ "Gas pistons" ] }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "Pull the bolt handle out of the bolt.", "partsFreed": [ "Bolt handle" ] }, { "n": 6, "instruction": "Slide the bolt assembly forward and out of the receiver.", "partsFreed": [ "Bolt assembly" ] }, { "n": 7, "instruction": "Push out the trigger group pin and lift the trigger group out of the receiver.", "partsFreed": [ "Trigger group" ] } ] }, { "procedure": "magazine-disassembly", "title": "Remove the magazine spring seal ring, spring and follower", "level": "detail-strip", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Place the bolt group in the forward position." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Remove accessories such as the sling, targeting devices and lights." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Unscrew the magazine cap counterclockwise as viewed from the front of the weapon.", "warning": "Make sure the muzzle end of the magazine points in a safe direction while removing the magazine cap and the magazine spring seal ring. The magazine parts are under considerable spring tension and can injure you or bystanders if released. If the magazine spring seal is worn, it may come out when the cap is removed and eject the magazine spring.", "partsFreed": [ "Magazine cap" ] }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Pull the bolt handle out of the bolt group.", "partsFreed": [ "Bolt handle" ] }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "Use the bolt handle to remove the magazine spring seal ring from the magazine tube.", "warning": "Make sure the muzzle end of the magazine points in a safe direction while removing the magazine cap and the magazine spring seal ring. The magazine parts are under considerable spring tension and can injure you or bystanders if released. If the magazine spring seal is worn, it may come out when the cap is removed and eject the magazine spring.", "partsFreed": [ "Magazine spring seal ring" ] }, { "n": 6, "instruction": "Remove the magazine spring and the follower from the magazine tube.", "tip": "Tap the magazine on a padded surface to get the follower out.", "partsFreed": [ "Magazine spring", "Magazine follower" ] } ] }, { "procedure": "buttstock-removal", "title": "Remove the telescoping buttstock and pistol grip", "level": "detail-strip", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Remove the trigger group from the receiver (field strip).", "tip": "The manual's stock removal starts 'With the trigger guard removed'." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "With the buttstock collapsed, grip it with your firing hand and depress the button with your thumb." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Rotate the telescoping buttstock clockwise and pull it to the rear." }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "When the buttstock is fully extended, rotate it counterclockwise to the vertical position and release the button." }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "Grip the extended buttstock with your firing hand, depress the button, and keep it fully depressed while you rotate the buttstock module clockwise.", "tip": "The manual's note: keep the button completely depressed while removing the buttstock." }, { "n": 6, "instruction": "Push the buttstock module in to the inscribed line on the recoil tube." }, { "n": 7, "instruction": "When the forward edge of the buttstock module reaches the inscribed line, rotate the buttstock counterclockwise until the top of the telescoping module lines up with the flat part of the recoil tube." }, { "n": 8, "instruction": "Pull the telescoping buttstock to the rear off the recoil tube.", "partsFreed": [ "Telescoping buttstock module" ] }, { "n": 9, "instruction": "Unscrew the pistol grip counterclockwise until it is free and remove it to the rear over the recoil tube.", "partsFreed": [ "Pistol grip" ] } ] }, { "procedure": "bolt-group-disassembly", "title": "Disassemble the bolt group", "level": "detail-strip", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Remove the bolt group from the receiver (field strip).", "warning": "Do NOT remove the extractor, link or bolt handle retaining pin during operator disassembly. It is not required to remove these parts for operator cleaning or maintenance." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Place a finger over the rear end of the firing pin and remove the firing pin retaining pin from the right side of the bolt carrier.", "partsFreed": [ "Firing pin retaining pin" ] }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Lift the firing pin, with its spring, out of the recess in the rear of the bolt carrier.", "partsFreed": [ "Firing pin with firing pin spring" ] }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Separate the firing pin spring from the firing pin.", "partsFreed": [ "Firing pin spring", "Firing pin" ] }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "Lift or shake the cam pin out of the bolt assembly.", "partsFreed": [ "Cam pin" ] }, { "n": 6, "instruction": "Pull the bolt head out of the bolt carrier.", "partsFreed": [ "Bolt head" ] } ] }, { "procedure": "gas-system-disassembly", "title": "Remove the gas cylinder plugs and gas pistons", "level": "detail-strip", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Remove the barrel from the receiver (field strip).", "tip": "The gas system need not be taken apart at every field strip; the manual calls for it every 5,000 rounds or when there is water, debris or excessive fouling in the gas system." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Using the bolt handle, unscrew the gas cylinder plugs counterclockwise as viewed from the front of the barrel.", "partsFreed": [ "Gas cylinder plugs (2)" ] }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Remove the gas pistons from the front end of the gas cylinders.", "partsFreed": [ "Gas pistons (2)" ] } ] } ] }, { "id": "refinish", "title": "Refinish", "components": [ { "name": "Magazine cap", "procedure": "field-strip", "level": "field-strip", "step": 2 }, { "name": "Forend", "procedure": "field-strip", "level": "field-strip", "step": 2 }, { "name": "Barrel", "procedure": "field-strip", "level": "field-strip", "step": 3 }, { "name": "Gas pistons", "procedure": "field-strip", "level": "field-strip", "step": 4 }, { "name": "Bolt handle", "procedure": "field-strip", "level": "field-strip", "step": 5 }, { "name": "Bolt assembly", "procedure": "field-strip", "level": "field-strip", "step": 6 }, { "name": "Trigger group", "procedure": "field-strip", "level": "field-strip", "step": 7 }, { "name": "Magazine spring seal ring", "procedure": "magazine-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 5 }, { "name": "Magazine spring", "procedure": "magazine-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 6 }, { "name": "Magazine follower", "procedure": "magazine-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 6 }, { "name": "Telescoping buttstock module", "procedure": "buttstock-removal", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 8 }, { "name": "Pistol grip", "procedure": "buttstock-removal", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 9 }, { "name": "Firing pin retaining pin", "procedure": "bolt-group-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 2 }, { "name": "Firing pin with firing pin spring", "procedure": "bolt-group-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 3 }, { "name": "Firing pin spring", "procedure": "bolt-group-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 4 }, { "name": "Firing pin", "procedure": "bolt-group-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 4 }, { "name": "Cam pin", "procedure": "bolt-group-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 5 }, { "name": "Bolt head", "procedure": "bolt-group-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 6 }, { "name": "Gas cylinder plugs (2)", "procedure": "gas-system-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 2 }, { "name": "Gas pistons (2)", "procedure": "gas-system-disassembly", "level": "detail-strip", "step": 3 } ], "manufacturerPartsList": null, "partsDiagrams": [], "materials": [ { "component": "Receiver", "material": "Ergal", "finish": "mat black anodised", "appliesTo": "M4 Black", "note": null, "source": { "title": "Benelli M4 Black — technical data", "publisher": "Benelli Armi S.p.A.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://www.benelli.it/en/arma/m4-black", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "RECEIVER FINISHING Ergal, mat black anodised, anti-glare" } }, { "component": "Stock", "material": "Technopolymer", "finish": null, "appliesTo": "M4 Black", "note": null, "source": { "title": "Benelli M4 Black — technical data", "publisher": "Benelli Armi S.p.A.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://www.benelli.it/en/arma/m4-black", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "STOCK AND FORE-END Technopolymer" } }, { "component": "Barrel", "material": null, "finish": "phosphated", "appliesTo": "M4 Black", "note": null, "source": { "title": "Benelli M4 Black — technical data", "publisher": "Benelli Armi S.p.A.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://www.benelli.it/en/arma/m4-black", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "The barrel is chromed inside and phosphated outside." } } ], "note": "The components the procedures above separate. Coating, masking and cure are outside this database; follow your coating system's instructions. A part the manufacturer marks \"factory fit\" should not be swapped or reworked." }, { "id": "reassemble", "title": "Reassemble", "videos": [], "procedures": [ { "procedure": "gas-system-disassembly", "title": "Remove the gas cylinder plugs and gas pistons", "configuration": false, "steps": null, "instruction": "Reverse the steps of \"Remove the gas cylinder plugs and gas pistons\"." }, { "procedure": "bolt-group-disassembly", "title": "Disassemble the bolt group", "configuration": false, "steps": null, "instruction": "Reverse the steps of \"Disassemble the bolt group\"." }, { "procedure": "buttstock-removal", "title": "Remove the telescoping buttstock and pistol grip", "configuration": false, "steps": null, "instruction": "Reverse the steps of \"Remove the telescoping buttstock and pistol grip\"." }, { "procedure": "magazine-disassembly", "title": "Remove the magazine spring seal ring, spring and follower", "configuration": false, "steps": null, "instruction": "Reverse the steps of \"Remove the magazine spring seal ring, spring and follower\"." }, { "procedure": "magazine-reassembly", "title": "Install the magazine follower, spring and spring seal ring", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Insert the magazine follower into the end of the magazine tube with its red, smaller-diameter end with the raised tactile ring going in first." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Insert the magazine spring into the magazine tube behind the follower." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Insert the magazine spring seal ring, squeezing it and pressing down from the top while rotating it forward until the seal is set.", "warning": "Make sure the muzzle end of the magazine points in a safe direction while removing the magazine cap and the magazine spring seal ring. The magazine parts are under considerable spring tension and can injure you or bystanders if released. If the magazine spring seal is worn, it may come out when the cap is removed and eject the magazine spring.", "tip": "Figure 42 shows the three stages of seating the seal ring." }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Install the barrel and forearm, then screw the magazine cap on hand tight to the last click.", "tip": "The manual's step 8 holds the bolt group at least 1/4 in to the rear with the bolt handle while the barrel extension goes in, and checks that both gas pistons enter their holes in the front of the receiver." } ], "instruction": null }, { "procedure": "buttstock-installation", "title": "Install the pistol grip and telescoping buttstock", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Place the pistol grip over the rear end of the recoil spring tube at the back of the receiver." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Screw the pistol grip onto the receiver clockwise, as viewed from the rear, until it is flush against the back of the receiver and vertical." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Grip the telescoping buttstock with your firing hand and depress the button." }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Rotate the buttstock counterclockwise until its top lines up with the flat part of the recoil tube." }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "Push the buttstock up the recoil tube to the inscribed line." }, { "n": 6, "instruction": "Rotate the buttstock clockwise past vertical and push it forward." }, { "n": 7, "instruction": "Rotate the buttstock counterclockwise and release the button." } ], "instruction": null }, { "procedure": "bolt-group-reassembly", "title": "Reassemble the bolt group", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Insert the bolt head into the front of the bolt carrier with the extractor to the right." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Insert the cam pin through the hole in the bolt head so that the hole through the cam pin and the index line on its top run parallel with the bolt carrier." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Place the firing pin spring onto the front end of the firing pin." }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Insert the firing pin, with its spring, into the hole in the back end of the bolt carrier." }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "Press in on the back of the firing pin with your finger against spring tension and push the firing pin retaining pin into the bolt carrier from right to left.", "warning": "Do not try to place the firing pin retaining pin completely behind the end of the firing pin." }, { "n": 6, "instruction": "Check that the back end of the firing pin is visible at the back of the bolt carrier and that the firing pin moves freely when pushed in with a pointed object." } ], "instruction": null }, { "procedure": "gas-system-reassembly", "title": "Install the gas pistons and gas cylinder plugs", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Install the gas pistons in the gas cylinders with the long extension facing the rear of the barrel." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Install the gas cylinder plugs and tighten them clockwise, as viewed from the front of the barrel, using the bolt handle." } ], "instruction": null }, { "procedure": "reassembly", "title": "Reassembly", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Install the trigger group into the receiver and insert its pin fully." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Slide the bolt assembly into the receiver, engaging the link with the recoil spring plunger." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Install the bolt handle into the bolt." }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Reinstall the two gas pistons into their cylinders in the correct orientation.", "warning": "Reversed pistons will not seal and the shotgun will not cycle correctly." }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "Set the barrel into the receiver with its extension seated fully and its ring over the magazine tube." }, { "n": 6, "instruction": "Install the forend and thread the magazine cap on, hand-tightening firmly.", "warning": "A loose magazine cap causes malfunctions and lets the barrel move. Check it before every use." }, { "n": 7, "instruction": "Cycle the action several times and perform the function check." } ], "instruction": null } ] }, { "id": "torque", "title": "Torque", "coverage": "reported-only", "manufacturer": [], "reported": [ { "fastener": "Handguard mounting bolts (6: four on forward ring, two on rear retaining cap)", "appliesTo": "Midwest Industries Benelli M4 M-LOK Handguard (MI-BENM4-HG) on a Benelli M4 (and clones)", "qualifier": "exact", "value": 20, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 2.3, "in-lb": 20, "ft-lb": 1.7 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": "Start screws finger tight; tighten barrel assembly fully seated; then torque all 6; then brass set screws only until they touch.", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Midwest Industries Benelli M4 Handguard (MI-BENM4-HG) — Instructions", "publisher": "Midwest Industries, Inc.", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://midwestindustriesinc.com/content/installation-instructions/Benelli-M4-Handguard-MI-BENM4-HG-Instructions.pdf", "page": "PDF p. 1 (single page)", "pdfPage": 1, "pageUrl": "https://midwestindustriesinc.com/content/installation-instructions/Benelli-M4-Handguard-MI-BENM4-HG-Instructions.pdf#page=1", "quote": "Tighten all 6 mounting bolts to 20inch lbs." } }, { "fastener": "Reflex sight mount to receiver (three screws and washers, factory rail holes)", "appliesTo": "Mesa Tactical RMR-footprint reflex sight mount on a Benelli M4", "qualifier": "approximate", "value": 15, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 1.7, "in-lb": 15, "ft-lb": 1.2 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": null, "threadlocker": "Purple or blue thread locker recommended", "source": { "title": "Mesa Tactical Reflex Sight Mounts Manual (46020 rev e)", "publisher": "Mesa Tactical", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/46020_Reflex_Sight_Mounts_Manual_rev_e.pdf", "page": "PDF p. 4 of 8", "pdfPage": 4, "pageUrl": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/46020_Reflex_Sight_Mounts_Manual_rev_e.pdf#page=4", "quote": "For Benelli M2 Tactical and Benelli M4 use the three screws and washers. For Beretta 1301 Tactical use the two metric flathead screws. Tighten to about 15 inch-lbs." } }, { "fastener": "ACRO sight mount to receiver (#8-40 x 1/4\" flathead screws, three)", "appliesTo": "Mesa Tactical ACRO-footprint reflex sight mount on a Benelli M4", "qualifier": "approximate", "value": 15, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 1.7, "in-lb": 15, "ft-lb": 1.2 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": null, "threadlocker": "Purple or blue thread locker recommended", "source": { "title": "Mesa Tactical Reflex Sight Mounts Manual (46020 rev e)", "publisher": "Mesa Tactical", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/46020_Reflex_Sight_Mounts_Manual_rev_e.pdf", "page": "PDF p. 6 of 8", "pdfPage": 6, "pageUrl": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/46020_Reflex_Sight_Mounts_Manual_rev_e.pdf#page=6", "quote": "Use three screws and included hex key to tighten the sight mount to the receiver. Tighten to about 15 inch-lbs." } }, { "fastener": "SureShell carrier/ACRO mount to receiver (four #8-40 screws)", "appliesTo": "Mesa Tactical SureShell carrier with ACRO sight mount on a Benelli M4", "qualifier": "approximate", "value": 15, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 1.7, "in-lb": 15, "ft-lb": 1.2 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": null, "threadlocker": "Purple or blue thread lock recommended", "source": { "title": "Mesa Tactical SureShell Carrier and ACRO Sight Mount Manual (46028)", "publisher": "Mesa Tactical", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/46028_SureShell_Carrier_and_ACRO_Sight_Mount_Manual.pdf", "page": "PDF p. 5 of 9", "pdfPage": 5, "pageUrl": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/46028_SureShell_Carrier_and_ACRO_Sight_Mount_Manual.pdf#page=5", "quote": "Use the four screws and hex key included in your zip bag hardware kit. Tighten screws to about 15 inch-lbs." } }, { "fastener": "Integrated-rail SureShell carrier to receiver (four or five screws and washers, factory rail holes)", "appliesTo": "Mesa Tactical Integrated Rail SureShell shotshell carrier on a Benelli M4/M1014", "qualifier": "approximate", "value": 15, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 1.7, "in-lb": 15, "ft-lb": 1.2 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": null, "threadlocker": "Blue Loctite on each screw", "source": { "title": "Mesa Tactical SureShell Shotshell Carriers — Assembly and Operation Guide (47374)", "publisher": "Mesa Tactical", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/47374_SureShell_Shotshell_Carriers_Assembly_and_Operation_Guide.pdf", "page": "PDF p. 16 of 20", "pdfPage": 16, "pageUrl": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/47374_SureShell_Shotshell_Carriers_Assembly_and_Operation_Guide.pdf#page=16", "quote": "the four or five screws and washers (the SureShell carriers for the Benelli SuperNova Tactical do not include washers). Tighten to about 15 inch-lbs and use a drop of blue Loctite® on each screw." } } ], "notes": "The manufacturer's documents give no torque value. They say: \"Screw on the fore-end fastening cap, on the end of the tubular magazine and tighten firmly until the barrel and the fore grip are locked perfectly against the receiver (fig. 10).\" (M4 Tactical Shotgun Product Manual, PDF p. 49)" }, { "id": "function-check", "title": "Function check", "checks": [ "Verify the shotgun is unloaded — chamber and magazine tube — before each step.", "Cycle the action by hand and confirm the bolt locks fully into battery.", "With the hammer cocked, engage the safety and press the trigger. The hammer must not fall.", "Disengage the safety and press the trigger. The hammer should fall.", "Confirm the bolt locks open when retracted and releases with the carrier release.", "Load two dummy shells into the magazine and confirm they feed and eject one at a time.", "Confirm the magazine cap is tight." ], "videos": [] } ], "troubleshooting": [], "sources": [ { "n": 1, "id": null, "title": "Benelli M4 Use and Maintenance Manual", "publisher": "Benelli Armi S.p.A.", "reliability": "primary", "url": null, "accessed": null }, { "n": 2, "id": null, "title": "TM 10698A-10/1 (preliminary): Operator's Manual, Shotgun, Combat, 12 Gauge, Semi-Automatic, M1014", "publisher": "U.S. Marine Corps", "reliability": "primary", "url": null, "accessed": null }, { "n": 3, "id": "benelli-usa-benelli-armi-s-p-a-aca672", "title": "M4 Tactical Shotgun Product Manual", "publisher": "Benelli USA / Benelli Armi S.p.A.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://www.benelliusa.com/sites/default/files/content/media/manuals/2019-10/M4%20Tactical%20Shotgun%20Product%20Manual.pdf", "accessed": "2026-09-27" }, { "n": 4, "id": "benelli-specs-1f6304", "title": "Benelli M4 Black — technical data", "publisher": "Benelli Armi S.p.A.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://www.benelli.it/en/arma/m4-black", "accessed": "2026-10-03" }, { "n": 5, "id": "tm-10698a-10-1-preliminary", "title": "TM 10698A-10/1 (preliminary): Preliminary TM 10698A-10/1, U.S. Marine Corps Technical Manual: Operator's Manual for Shotgun, Combat, 12 Gauge, Semi-Automatic, M1014 (1005-01-472-3147) [For Official Use Only]", "publisher": "Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps (Marine Corps Systems Command)", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://archive.org/download/benelli-m-4-usmc-manual/Benelli%20M4%20%28USMC%20Manual%29_text.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-03" }, { "n": 6, "id": "midwest-industries-inc-ef3fe6", "title": "Midwest Industries Benelli M4 Handguard (MI-BENM4-HG) — Instructions", "publisher": "Midwest Industries, Inc.", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://midwestindustriesinc.com/content/installation-instructions/Benelli-M4-Handguard-MI-BENM4-HG-Instructions.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-11" }, { "n": 7, "id": "mesa-tactical-2c0458", "title": "Mesa Tactical Reflex Sight Mounts Manual (46020 rev e)", "publisher": "Mesa Tactical", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/46020_Reflex_Sight_Mounts_Manual_rev_e.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-11" }, { "n": 8, "id": "mesa-tactical-12d2f0", "title": "Mesa Tactical SureShell Carrier and ACRO Sight Mount Manual (46028)", "publisher": "Mesa Tactical", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/46028_SureShell_Carrier_and_ACRO_Sight_Mount_Manual.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-11" }, { "n": 9, "id": "mesa-tactical-c93c1b", "title": "Mesa Tactical SureShell Shotshell Carriers — Assembly and Operation Guide (47374)", "publisher": "Mesa Tactical", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://mesatactical.com/content/manuals/47374_SureShell_Shotshell_Carriers_Assembly_and_Operation_Guide.pdf", "accessed": "2026-10-11" } ] }