Benelli M4 11717 Desert Camo (Desert Tan): History, Discontinuation & Collector Tips

In this post I break down the full history of the Benelli M4 11717 Desert Camo (Desert Tan) shotgun—why Benelli produced it, why it was discontinued (finish chipping complaints), how its unique 3-tone pattern compares to black and titanium-style builds, and what Benelli M4 parts still surface for restorations. If you’re building or collecting a Benelli M4/M1014, you’ll find practical advice on spotting authentic components, understanding wear on camo finishes, and sourcing compatible upgrades. Need help choosing parts? Call or text me at Freedom Fighter Tactical.

Hey folks—Todd at Freedom Fighter Tactical. In this piece I walk through the story of the Benelli M4 11717 Desert Camo (Desert Tan) shotgun. Benelli offered the 11717 for years with a distinctive camo pattern—two shades of tan plus brown—contrasted by black components like the sights and top rail. I own one and still think it looks fantastic and unique.

So why is the 11717 gone? The short version: finish durability complaints. Owners reported chipping on both polymer and metal surfaces; even light knocks could mark the paint. Over time that pushed the look from “battle-worn cool” to “tired,” and Benelli discontinued the SKU (roughly in the early 2010s). Unlike today’s titanium-style finishes that many pair with “MP3-coated” parts, the original Desert Camo wasn’t a Cerakote job across every surface—it was a mixed application over different materials, which didn’t help longevity.

For builders and collectors, the good news is that authentic 11717 components still appear occasionally—stocks, barrels, forends, caps, and extensions. Through the years I’ve purchased and resold OEM desert-camo parts when Benelli cleared old inventory, and I sometimes still see stocks and barrels show up. If you want the Desert Camo vibe without chasing the exact model, a reputable finisher can recreate a similar pattern; just understand it won’t be “factory 11717.”

If you’re hunting a true 11717 today, check established secondary markets and be ready to inspect the finish closely. Chipping is common, so factor that into price and your plans—shooter vs. safe queen. For many customers, black remains the most versatile base for upgrades, with titanium-style builds a close second. But if you want something that stands out, the 11717 still turns heads and has a small but passionate following.

I’m here 365 days a year to help with Benelli M4 parts—mag tubes, trigger kits, recoil tubes, stocks, sling mounts, rails, and more. If you’re building, restoring, or just researching the Benelli M4/M1014, call or text me using the number on the site. I’ll help you choose the right parts, avoid compatibility traps, and keep your project moving. Thanks for reading—and be safe.