Benelli M4 Side Saddle Options
Benelli M4 Side Saddle Popularity
All versions of the side saddles were specifically designed for the Benelli M4 / M1014 and will fit without modifications. The different configurations allow for different user preferences.
Popularity in order
- The 6-round and 8-round versions are equally popular at the number 1 spot.
- The 6-round polymer comes in second.
- The 4-round is the least popular option.
Benelli M4 Side Saddle Function
Shotguns are versatile tools, and the purpose of the Benelli M4 side saddle is to make them even more versatile. The side saddle gives you the option to have different kinds of ammunition that are neatly organized, easy to tell apart (when using color-coated shells), and quick to access for any situation. It is also great for self-defense situations where you can grab and go, and not need to worry about bringing back-up ammo.
Benelli M4 Side Saddle Manufacturing
They are Manufactured by Mesa Tactical, and 100% made in America. The Aluminum versions are precision machined out of 6061-T6 Aluminum alloy. That means they are lightweight and durable. To further reduce weight and increase styling, weight-reduction holes are milled through the sides. They are hard coat anodized to provide them with a durable matte black finish to match the receiver. The Polymer version has an aluminum rail paired with glass-filled nylon injection molded yoke.
Benelli M4 Side Saddle Picatinny Rail
Each Benelli M4 side saddle replaces the factory picatinny rail and mounts using the 5 factory drilled and tapped screw holes in the receiver. It features a center cut-out on the rail for a larger field of view when looking through the sights, just like the factory rail.
Benelli M4 Clone Side Saddle Compatibility
All side saddles are made specifically for the Benelli M4 but may also fit clones.
To test for clone capability, measure the distance between each hole from center to center: hole 1 to hole 2 is 0.86”, 2-3 is 1.2”, 3-4 is 1.03”, 4-5 is 0.6” (hole 1 is closest to the barrel, hole 5 is closest to the stock.
List of Clone Compatibility So Far (Based on Customer Feedback):
- MAC 1014 – YES
- Panzer Arms M4 – YES
- Revolution Armory R4 – YES
- Black Aces – YES
Benelli M4 Side Saddle Retention System
Using the Mesa Tactical rubber friction retention system, shells can be inserted upwards or downwards and will stay firmly in place until needed. All Benelli M4 side saddles come with a black and a white elastic retainer, the black comes installed and works well for most users. The white is included in the box and is stiffer for better retention.
Other Mounting Accessories
The 5.25-inch Picatinny rail lets you mount optics and other accessories. If you want to mount an optic on the Picatinny rail, we recommend the Mesa Cheek Riser Stock. This stock raises your head to align your eyes with the optic and also allows you to attach a custom shell holder to the stock. If you want to mount an RMR optic, we recommend the Mesa RMR & Side Saddle.
Included in Benelli M4 Side Saddle Box
Comes with an adhesive padded backing to stick onto the side saddle. This prevents any rattling, movement, or scratching against the receiver. Five screws and five washers are included in the packaging to replace the factory accessories, but it’s recommended to reuse the OEM hardware.
Benelli M4 Side Saddle Sizes and Weights
- 4-Round Aluminum: 5.4 ounces, 5.5 inches in length. SKU: 90870
- 6-Round Aluminum: 6.7 ounces, 6.0 inches in length. SKU: 94930
- 6-Round Alum/Polymer: 5.1 ounces, 6.0 inches in length. SKU: 90880
- 8-Round Aluminum: 8.5 ounces, 7.75 inches in length. SKU: 90890
- OEM Picatinny Rail: 1.4 ounces, 5.25 inches in length.
Benelli M4 Side Saddle Installation
Installation is quick and easy: Place the adhesive padding onto the side of the Benelli M4 side saddle (not the receiver). Remove the 5 screws and 5 washers. Line up the Picatinny holes to the receiver and screw back in the 5 screws with washers.
There are no permanent modifications required for installation like other Benelli M4 shell holders on the market. It mounts as if Benelli themselves made it.
