Hayes Custom Guns X Benelli M2 Speed: The Ultimate Shotgun for Competitive Shooters and Hunters

Hayes Custom Guns X Benelli M2 Speed: The Ultimate Shotgun for Competitive Shooters and Hunters Table of Contents • Why the Hayes Custom Benelli M2 Speed Matters • Core Features and Technical Specifications • Modifications and Customization Options • Inertia-Driven System Explained • Available Calibers and Effective Range • Hunting Applications and Game Suitability • Competitive Shooting Performance • Accessories: Chokes, Optics, and Add-Ons • Price and Value Analysis • Pros and Cons Based on Real Reviews • Why Shooters Choose Hayes Custom M2 Speed • Interesting Facts and Final Thoughts --- 🏹 Introduction: Why the Hayes Custom Benelli M2 Speed Matters The Hayes Custom Guns X Benelli M2 Speed is a purpose-built semi-automatic shotgun designed for 3-Gun, IPSC, and tactical competitions, but it also finds favor among discerning hunters. Combining Benelli’s legendary inertia-driven reliability with Hayes Custom’s precision modifications, this firearm is a top-tier choice for shooters who demand speed, durability, and customization. --- ⚙️ Core Features and Technical Specifications • Action Type: Semi-automatic • Operating System: Inertia-driven • Barrel Length: Typically 26” (customizable) • Overall Length: ~47” • Weight: ~7.2 lbs (varies with mods) • Magazine Capacity: Factory tube holds 3 shells; extended tubes available • Sight System: Fiber-optic front sight + flip-up rear rifle sight • Finish: BE.S.T. corrosion-resistant bolt coating • Stock: Synthetic, often stippled for grip • Receiver: Aggressively beveled for fast reloads --- 🛠️ Modifications and Customization Options Hayes Custom transforms the standard Benelli M2 Speed into a competition-ready beast with: • Polished and widened loading port for twin/quad loading • Extended stainless steel shell carrier • Modified bolt for ghost loading and out-of-battery loading • Oversized bolt handle and release paddle • TTI enlarged safety • Nordic Components extended magazine tubes • RCI X-Rail magazine spring and follower • Match Saver shell holder • Stippled stock and forend (optional) • Flush-mounted Noveske QD sling points These upgrades are designed to shave seconds off reload times and improve handling under pressure. --- 🔄 Inertia-Driven System Explained Benelli’s inertia-driven system is a hallmark of reliability. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, it uses recoil energy to cycle the action, resulting in: • Fewer moving parts • Cleaner operation (less fouling) • Faster cycling speed • Reduced maintenance needs This system is ideal for both competition and hunting, especially in harsh environments. --- 🎯 Available Calibers and Effective Range • Caliber: 12 gauge only • Effective Range:• Birdshot: up to 40 yards • Buckshot: up to 50 yards • Slug: accurate up to 100 yards The M2 Speed is versatile enough for upland game, waterfowl, and medium-sized game when paired with the right choke and load. --- 🦌 Hunting Applications and Game Suitability While designed for speed shooting, the Hayes Custom M2 Speed is also effective for: • Waterfowl hunting (with extended magazine and proper choke) • Turkey hunting (tight choke, slug or heavy shot) • Boar or deer (with rifled slug barrel or sabot slugs) Its lightweight design and fast cycling make it ideal for mobile hunting setups. --- 🏆 Competitive Shooting Performance This shotgun shines in: • 3-Gun competitions • IPSC Shotgun Division • Tactical shooting drills • Steel Challenge (shotgun stages) The modifications allow for rapid reloads, minimal recoil, and fast target acquisition, giving shooters a competitive edge. --- 🎒 Accessories: Chokes, Optics, and Add-Ons • Chokes: Compatible with Benelli Crio Plus system• Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full • Optics Mount: Required for red dot or reflex sights • Sling Mounts: Noveske QD flush mounts • Shell Holders: Match Saver and side saddles • Barrel Mods: Optional porting or length changes • Stock Options: Stippled or padded for recoil control --- 💰 Price and Value Analysis • Base Price (Benelli M2 Speed): ~$1,499 USD • Hayes Custom Package: ~$2,699 USD • Lead Time: 6–8 weeks for custom builds • Upgrade Existing Shotgun: Available for Benelli M2 or Beretta 1301 While expensive, the value lies in precision craftsmanship, competition-grade performance, and long-term reliability. --- 👍 Pros and 👎 Cons Based on Real Reviews Pros: • Lightning-fast reloads • Durable and corrosion-resistant components • Excellent balance and ergonomics • Customizable to shooter’s needs • Reliable cycling with various loads Cons: • High price point • Long wait times for custom builds • Not ideal for beginners or casual shooters • Limited to 12 gauge only --- 💡 Why Shooters Choose Hayes Custom M2 Speed • Competitive shooters love the speed and reliability • Hunters appreciate the rugged build and inertia system • Collectors value the craftsmanship and exclusivity • Tactical users benefit from the ghost loading and extended capacity It’s a shotgun that performs under pressure, whether in the field or on the clock. --- 🧠 Interesting Facts and Final Thoughts • The M2 Speed was originally designed with input from professional 3-Gun shooters • Hayes Custom Guns is known for hand-fitting every component • The inertia system was first introduced by Benelli in the 1980s and remains a gold standard • Ghost loading allows for +1 shell capacity, a tactical advantage --- Conclusion: The Hayes Custom Guns X Benelli M2 Speed is not just a shotgun — it’s a statement. Whether you’re chasing trophies in the woods or seconds on the clock, this firearm delivers unmatched performance, reliability, and style. For serious shooters, it’s worth every penny.