As Foghorn predicted, in strict accordance with firearms industry practice, gunmakers’ marketing mavens are busy playing variations on a theme; working hard to up the new product round count for the SHOT show. Benelli’s latest stock in trade: the M4 H2O. No it’s not a double-barreled homage to the Australian mermaid saga which has so captivated my 8-year-old. It’s Big Ben’s Marine-compatible scattergun which includes (“for the first time ever”) a factory-installed telescoping pistol-grip stock, a full-length magazine tube (7+1 capacity) and NP3 coating. What kinda player is that? Read on McDuff . . .
Benelli’s presser says NP3 is a “seriously rugged weather-proofing that will withstand all the elements.” Why so serious?
NP3 is an electroless nickel-based finish, which gives the metal’s surface an attractive satin gray, non-reflective finish. All active surfaces including the M4 H2O’s entire bolt assembly, trigger group, magazine tube and follower and barrel are evenly plated with a true composite coating of sub-micron particles of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene)—also known as Teflon with electroless nickel co-deposited into the nickel matrix.
Every metal part of on the M4 H2O is completely protected from rust and corrosion, even when exposed to marine environments with salt spray, rain, and high humidity. This degree of protection is 10 times greater than standard electroless nickel finishes.
Not only is NP3 extremely corrosion resistant, but it also provides high lubricity and a low friction co-efficient, which greatly increases the life of a firearm. Furthermore, as wear occurs on the surface of the finish, fresh particles of PTFE are exposed to maintain consistent lubricating qualities of the coating.
In addition to its self-lubricating rust-proofing (sounds so dirty), the $2269 M4 H2O comes with a Picatinny rail, pistol-grip stock, fully adjustable ghost-ring aperture rear sight and windage-adjustable front sight. Benelli says the M4 H20 will only be available for a limited time (i.e. it may be boat compatible but they won’t be selling them by the boat-load). Off you go then.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Gauge: 12-Gauge
- Barrel Length: 18.5”
- Sights: Ghost-ring
- Metal Finish: NP3
- Stock: Telescoping
- Average Weight: 7.8 lbs.
- Overall Length: 40”
- Length of Pull: 14 3/8”
- Drop at heel: 2.25”
- Drop at Comb: 1.5”
- MSRP: $2269