M4 v.s. M2 tactical

[DoctorW]

I am thinking of getting a HD semi-auto shotgun.

M4 seems cool. But what is the difference between M4 and M2 tactical? I mean functional difference, not the structure, because I know that M4 uses gas piston and M2 uses ID system.

More specifically, what is the advantage of M4 over M2 tactical?

M2 is simpler and easier for maintainance. M2 is cleaner. Without a gas piston, M2 is more like a malfunction free gun. Besides, M2 is much lighter.

So, I just do not understand why M4 over M2?

[Unobtanium]

I am thinking of getting a HD semi-auto shotgun.

M4 seems cool. But what is the difference between M4 and M2 tactical? I mean functional difference, not the structure, because I know that M4 uses gas piston and M2 uses ID system.

More specifically, what is the advantage of M4 over M2 tactical?

M2 is simpler and easier for maintainance. M2 is cleaner. Without a gas piston, M2 is more like a malfunction free gun. Besides, M2 is much lighter.

So, I just do not understand why M4 over M2?

Well think about this: The stocks weigh the same. The barrels are the same length. Yet one is almost 1.5# heavier than the other. Those gas-pistons sure don't weigh 1.5#, and the modified BCG doesn't account for all of it either. so what does that tell you?

[Duggan]

Pretty much.

It's just beefed up and stronger in lots of areas, things were redesigned for the gas pistons, etc ... if you can afford it, I think you will be very happy with an m4.

And m2 is a fine weapon, but it's no M4 ... unless your intended use is for 3gun or something, then people seem to prefer the m2 for longer barrel and more magazine capacity.

Also, pick one ... Abrams M1A2 or armored car?

[Creeper]

I'll be the decenter and devils advocate in this group. I'm old, I can take the abuse.

Being able to own a firearm that is in current use by the (a) military has a certain cachette... that can sometimes be hard to define, rationalize or justify.
I can't totally exclude myself from this fascination either, as I've been in the deep end of that pool, once possessing FN FALs, H&K G3s, SIG AMTs, a whole slew of US arms... and other sundry mil-spec weaponry.

I find that the M2 does everything I need a shotgun to do. Is it better or worse than an M4 at flinging quantities of buckshot down the lane? No... only different in the sense that they are designed for, and have different (intended) missions in life. Pick your mission, pick your gun.

I went with the M2 for a few reasons. I have (developed) an aversion to gas system weapons. Might be silly, but no more silly than any other illogical rationalization.
I liked the lightness and maneuverability of the M2... I have carpal tunnel and tendinitis, so this is an important feature to me.
On the other hand, I'm a fairly recoil-proof person, so that feature of the softer shooting M4 carries no weight.

Caveat Emptor...

C

[Duggan]

On the other hand, I'm a fairly recoil-proof person, so that feature of the softer shooting M4 carries no weight.

Caveat Emptor...

C

Recoil proof eh?

I'd like to see you shoot a 577 T-Rex

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EVqT3XEzss

[Creeper]

Recoil proof eh?

I'd like to see you shoot a 577 T-Rex

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EVqT3XEzss

Ah well... there are practical limits to everything.
I don't shoot guns that I know will do damage to me... much like I don't walk into walls or fall down stairs on purpose either.

[Duggan]

Ah well... there are practical limits to everything.
I don't shoot guns that I know will do damage to me... much like I don't walk into walls or fall down stairs on purpose either.

Touche, good sir. I also choose to refrain from doing intentionally destructive things ... at least on weekdays.

[jantonio54]

I'll be the decenter and devils advocate in this group. I'm old, I can take the abuse.

Being able to own a firearm that is in current use by the (a) military has a certain cachette... that can sometimes be hard to define, rationalize or justify.
I can't totally exclude myself from this fascination either, as I've been in the deep end of that pool, once possessing FN FALs, H&K G3s, SIG AMTs, a whole slew of US arms... and other sundry mil-spec weaponry.

I find that the M2 does everything I need a shotgun to do. Is it better or worse than an M4 at flinging quantities of buckshot down the lane? No... only different in the sense that they are designed for, and have different (intended) missions in life. Pick your mission, pick your gun.

I went with the M2 for a few reasons. I have (developed) an aversion to gas system weapons. Might be silly, but no more silly than any other illogical rationalization.
I liked the lightness and maneuverability of the M2... I have carpal tunnel and tendinitis, so this is an important feature to me.
On the other hand, I'm a fairly recoil-proof person, so that feature of the softer shooting M4 carries no weight.

Caveat Emptor...

C

Sounds like you have it figured out for you. I couldn't agree with you more. I own both (M1 and M4), and the lightness of the M1 is incredible after handling the M4. The only downsides of the M1/M2 are questionable ability to cycle loads for which they are not designed and you do not have the option of hanging a lot of weight on the gun.

The Wolff heavy recoil spring alleviates these downsides to some degree.

[Creeper]

Touche, good sir. I also choose to refrain from doing intentionally destructive things ... at least on weekdays.

Discretion is the better part of valor... so says the man who has survived a lack of discretion in the pursuit of valor.

[Creeper]

The only downsides of the M1/M2 are questionable ability to cycle loads for which they are not designed and you do not have the option of hanging a lot of weight on the gun.

The Wolff heavy recoil spring alleviates these downsides to some degree.

In complete agreement with your comments.
I am currently "playing" with the appropriate combinations of accessories to find a happy medium.
A sling and light are somewhat mandatory for my needs, as I live in the woods and tend to wander about.
I'm still undecided on a Nordic extended mag tube or a MT 1913 rail/6 shell carrier as a method of additional ammo carry.
I don't want or feel the need for both... and both combined may cause cycling issues.
Thru experimentation... and contemplation of my "true needs", I will decide on which is the better method.

The Wolff spring would be a sound purchase... should I get a case of "Zombieitis" and rationalize the need for 14 plus shells on the gun. (What... it could happen. )