Benelli M1 Super 90
Overview
M1 Entry
Benelli M1 Entry shotgun.
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Description
Introduction
The M1 Super 90 is a shotgun of Italian origin. It was developed by Benelli in the mid 1980's for military and police use and is the first model in the Super 90 series. The design is a further evolution of the HK 512 tactical shotgun that was produced by Franchi in small quantities. The M1 has been replaced in production by the M3, which is an improved model that is rather similar but adds pump action ability.
Design
The M1 is a semi-automatic shotgun that uses an inertia driven system that is derived from the HK 512 mechanism. The M1 uses a metal receiver, smoothbore barrel and tubular magazine under the barrel. The fixed stock and forearm are made out of high strength polymer. Most tactical models are fitted with a pistol grip, although a conventional grip is available. Sights are either standard shotgun sights or ghost ring diopter sights. For civilian use the M1 is also available with longer barrels and in 20ga.
Firepower
The M1 fires 12ga shells with a length of up to 3 inch. Various length tubular magazine are available but a 7 round capacity is most common. The M1 is semi-automatic and allows for rapid follow up shots. Both buckshot and slugs can be fired. The inertia system will also cycle mild buckshot loads, but most non lethal rounds will not cycle. Various chokes are available to adjust the spread of buckshot. Since the barrel is not rifled the use of slugs is limited to a few dozen meters.
Users
The M1 proved to be a successful design and was adopted by many law enforcement units. The M1 is very common in Europe and the USA. Due to their age many M1's have been replaced by newer models such as the M3.
Variants
M1 Entry
The M1 Entry is a more compact version of the M1 Tactical model. The M1 Entry has a shorter barrel and magazine. A pistol grip is standard but in theory a conventional grip can also be installed.
M1 Tactical
The M1 Tactical is the full size tactical model with conventional rifle style grip. The M1 Tactical M has a pistol grip. The full size tactical models have a 470 mm barrel. Civilian models have a 502 mm barrel that extends further beyond the tubular magazine.
Details
Related articles
Heckler & Koch HK 512
The M1 Super 90 was derived from the earlier HK 512.
