New Benelli M4 Multirail Gen 2 - Charging Handle Spins - Can't Remove from Bolt

[wdritchey]

Hey all, new to this forum. I recently made the decision to sell my Beretta 1301 Tactical and purchase a Benelli M4! I saw a shot show video from 2023 talking about the M4 Gen 2 multi rail. Oddly enough, I don't even see this model on Benelli's own website. It was difficult to source one, but once I did, I jumped on it and it just came in yesterday!

As you all know, these come field stripped, so I was looking at the manual to see where to put oil and such. The charging handle was already in the bolt, so it obviously has to be taken out to install the bolt. On the 1301, it just pulls out. In the Benelli manual, it says to turn while pulling. Well, mine won't come out. I've heard it's normal for the oversized charging handles on these new ones to spin. I feel like mine spins rather freely. I'm not sure if that's an issue. But for whatever reason, I cannot pull it out. I feel like an idiot. I bet it's something incredibly simple. What are the odds that something on a gun like this went out the door with an issue? Probably none. Yet, I cannot figure it out.

I've attached a video with my trying to demonstrate what I'm talking about with one hand holding my phone, but you get the idea. I hope it's something simple. Maybe I took a risk by buying this version when there's so little information about them out there, but it has all the features I wanted from the factory.

[wdritchey]

I just realized the video attached as a download link. I know how sketchy that looks. I've uploaded it to my google drive so you can view without actually downloading it. https://drive.google.com/file/d/13tQ4-8M0N3zwzLcFyscnxFDf7AezMd_2/view?usp=sharing

[Trust1984]

Try pulling a little harder.  

I recently purchased a new Benelli M4 and the removing the charging handle the first time was much stiffer than I expected.

[StreetSweeper56]

Try looping a piece of paracord between the handle and the receiver to give a better grip, it will come out.

[Franklinexpress]

So it’s normal for the new charging handle to spin? I have one on the regular m4 and it spins with very little force, almost free spinning

[wdritchey]

8 minutes ago, Franklinexpress said:

So it’s normal for the new charging handle to spin? I have one on the regular m4 and it spins with very little force, almost free spinning

Yes! I learned it's totally normal and doesn't effect function at all. It seemed odd, but rest assured the shotgun is very well built. No regrets parting with my 1301 for this.

[Franklinexpress]

Good to know, thanks!

[RxArms]

There are 3 notches on the OEM charge handle that lock into the detent ball.

you need to rotate the charge handle a little so the ball detent is in between a 2 notches, then it will pull out.  You should not need force to remove it, from OEM style machined pin.

[Franklinexpress]

2 hours ago, RxArms said:

There are 3 notches on the OEM charge handle that lock into the detent ball.

you need to rotate the charge handle a little so the ball detent is in between a 2 notches, then it will pull out.  You should not need force to remove it, from OEM style machined pin.

Yes you do need force, tried it on two t-pros, these handles have a different design. You have to pull HARD no matter the rotation. It’s the best built handle I’ve seen, and felt. Not coming out. Feels amazing.