Benelli 121 M1 SL-80 Series 12 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun | Pre-Ban HK Import, 19.5-Inch Barrel, 7+1 Capacity
Benelli’s Model 121 M1 is an early, hard-to-find execution of Bruno Civolani’s inertia-driven system, and this SL-80 Series example comes from the limited H&K Arlington import run that ended with the 1989 ban. A factory 7-shot magazine tube, compact 19.5-inch chrome-lined barrel with fixed Cylinder choke, and lightweight alloy receiver give this Italian-built shotgun fast handling and solid defensive credentials. Collectors prize these pre-ban imports for their scarcity, mechanical simplicity, and direct lineage to Benelli’s later tactical legends.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent – Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Specific Condition Notes: The receiver and barrel display scattered wear, scuffs, and light discoloration consistent with normal field use. Wood furniture retains crisp checkering with minor handling marks.
What’s Included
- Benelli 121 M1 SL-80 Series 12 Gauge semi-automatic shotgun
This shotgun retains the original fixed Cylinder choke—ideal for defensive patterns and slug compatibility—while the 2.75-inch chamber accepts standard 12-gauge loads. The inertia-driven rotating-head bolt cycles cleanly without gas fouling, a signature Benelli advantage that keeps maintenance simple.
The alloy receiver is black anodized, contrasted by a grey parkerized barrel, giving the gun a purposeful two-tone appearance. An HK Arlington, VA import stamp and Benelli Armi Urbino markings confirm its pre-ban provenance and enhance collectability.
Walnut furniture offers classic aesthetics and durability. The buttstock’s 13.75-inch length of pull, checkered steel butt-plate, and matching walnut forend balance the shotgun for fast target transitions.
A cross-bolt safety, cylindrical bolt handle, and fixed front blade/receiver trough sighting system keep controls straightforward—attributes favored by shooters who value reliability over embellishment.