The Benelli M1 and M3 (same semi-auto action) have a design flaw that will result in hammer down on a live round if you pull the trigger too fast. I have PERSONALLY experienced this multiple times with two different M3s. This may or may not bother you. Please read about it here:
www.winchester-guns.com/sx2_practical.htmI have multiple shotgun experience: M1 super 90, M3 super 90, Browning A-5, Remington 1100, Ithaca 37, Remington 870.
Here's what I can tell you from my experience about the benelli:
-it DOES kick harder than a pump. I have shot two different M3s seconds after shooting my similarly outfitted 870. This is shooting the same ammo as in my 870.
-Both my friend that owns the M3 and I have had problems cycling the light loads.
-The pistol grip rocks. Shooting the M3 with the pistol grip is what pushed me to get a Choate pistol grip stock for my 870. The Pistol grip is great on a shotgun as it really helps control recoil.
-I have had the above mentioned hammer follow problem on multiple occasions (I have a fast finger)
-the ghost rings on the benelli are great, but personally I dont' feel the need for sights on a shotgun.
Personally I would consider getting a Remington 1100 and make sure to keep a good mag spring in it. Also I would consider getting a new browning gold or winchester SX2. I have a real problem with the benelli's problematic feeding of light loads and hammer follow issue, and the increased recoil and high price don't help either. Do plenty of research before you drop the bills.
Edit: The rumor about benelli being "the fastest shotgun in the west" is mostly a myth too. It is faster than the remington 1100, but only by .01s. The old browning A-5 and new browning gold/winchester SX2 are faster. Again, read the above linked article.