I have the same problem with broken part in the gas chamber. I've noticed it after firing first 10 rounds. Now,after 3 years nothing has been done about it. I'm useing the rifle with success but that is not what I payed 3 years ago. My model is European Benelli ARGO 30-06 and it is very accurate. As a professional outfitter I can say that Benelli R1 is very good but materials they use are not,at least some parts.
Because I bought it in Croatia and it is made in Italy I don't know what to do because Italian costumer service is very bad.