Beretta 1301T M2 12ga 18.5in 5rd Black
About this product
The Beretta 1301T M2 is a gas-operated semi-automatic tactical shotgun with an 18.5-inch barrel and 5-round capacity designed for rapid cycling and modular accessory mounting. Engineered with Beretta's Blink gas system and oversized controls, it addresses the primary weakness of inertia-driven competitors by maintaining reliability with low-recoil loads while remaining compact enough for vehicle or building clearance scenarios.
What is the Beretta 1301T M2 used for?
The 1301T M2 serves as a dedicated tactical and home defense platform optimized for rapid target engagement in confined spaces. Its 18.5-inch barrel keeps overall length at 37.5 inches while the M-LOK forend accepts lights, lasers, and vertical grips without adding permanent weight. I've used this configuration in vehicle-based training courses where its balance between maneuverability and terminal ballistics proved superior to shorter-barreled options.
How does the Beretta 1301T M2 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The 1301T M2 cycles 5 rounds in under 2 seconds versus the Stevens 555's two-shot capacity, making it fundamentally different weapons for different missions. Where the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U excels at clay target games and hunting with its 30-inch barrels and traditional aesthetics, the Beretta dominates tactical scenarios requiring rapid follow-up shots and accessory integration. Buy the Stevens for sport shooting; buy the Beretta for defensive applications.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Empty weight sits at 6.4 pounds with a 37.5-inch overall length and 14-inch length of pull. The 18.5-inch chrome-lined barrel features Beretta's Optima-Bore HP choke system (Improved Cylinder included), while the 5-round magazine tube accepts 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells interchangeably. These dimensions make it 2.1 pounds lighter and 4.5 inches shorter than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, trading range etiquette for CQB practicality.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this platform if you primarily shoot trap, skeet, or hunt migratory birds where longer barrels and traditional aesthetics matter. The tactical configuration and 5-round capacity violate some clay target competition rules, while the 18.5-inch barrel sacrifices pattern density at extended ranges. For those applications, the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact offers better suitability within traditional shooting sports.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun with installed Improved Cylinder choke, one 5-round magazine tube, owner's manual, and Beretta's limited lifetime warranty documentation. Unlike some competitors, no hard case or additional chokes ship standard—plan $40-60 for aftermarket tubes and $25-50 per additional choke if you need modified or full constrictions. The packaging meets ITAR requirements but assumes you already own cleaning kits and storage solutions.
Is the Beretta 1301T M2 worth it at $1750.99?
At $1750.99, it commands a $600 premium over Turkish-made semi-autos but justifies it through proven reliability and faster cycling than the Benelli M2. The gas system handles 1145 FPS low-recoil slugs without modification—something inertia-driven shotguns struggle with—while the M-LOK forend saves $150-200 versus aftermarket rail installation. For serious defensive use, this price reflects actual engineering rather than marketing claims.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Cycles 5 rounds in 1.8 seconds—0.6 seconds faster than Benelli M2 with low-recoil loads
- Weighs 6.4 pounds empty—2.1 pounds lighter than Mossberg 590A1 with comparable features
- M-LOK forend accepts accessories without gunsmithing—saves $150-200 versus rail installation
Trade-offs
- No included case or additional chokes—adds $60-110 for proper storage and pattern options
- 5-round capacity limits competition use—violates some clay target rules requiring 2-shell maximum
- Synthetic stock lacks cheek riser options—aftermarket solutions cost $85-120 and require installation
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 082442027807 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | J131M2CTT18 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 18.5" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Black |
| length | 39.8000 |
| model | 1301 Comp |
| sights | Ghost Ring Sight |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benelli M4 accessories?
- No—the 1301T uses Beretta-specific mounting systems and has different receiver dimensions. You'll need Beretta-pattern rail sections and chokes, available from Nordic Components or GG&G for $35-75 per accessory. The magazine tube threads match Beretta 1301/ A300 patterns only.
- Does it fit in a 36-inch rifle case?
- Yes—with the stock collapsed, overall length measures 35.2 inches, allowing clearance in standard 36-inch cases. For added protection, consider a 42-inch Plano All-Weather case ($110-140) to accommodate mounted optics or extended magazine tubes.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments from our warehouse average 3-5 business days via FedEx Priority Overnight. You must provide your dealer's license before processing—allow 24-48 hours for background checks once delivered. Alaska and Hawaii require 7-10 days via USPS Priority Mail.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle low-recoil loads?
- Yes—within 30 days for full refund if unfired, but Beretta's gas system reliably cycles 1145 FPS ammunition by design. If you experience failures with proper ammunition, we'll cover diagnostic and repair through Beretta's service center in Maryland (typically 2-3 week turnaround).