Let’s Dive into Allen Universal Shotgun Plug
The Allen Universal Shotgun Plug is a simple yet essential accessory for shotgun owners, especially those who hunt. Manufactured by Allen, this unassuming green polymer plug ensures compliance with hunting regulations by limiting the magazine capacity of pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns. I’ve spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, and even the most basic gear can make or break a trip.
My state recently updated its waterfowl hunting regulations, mandating a maximum capacity for shotgun magazines. I needed a reliable and easy-to-install solution, and the Allen Universal Shotgun Plug seemed like the perfect fit. Upon opening the packaging, I immediately appreciated the simplicity of the design. It’s a solid piece of green polymer, clearly injection-molded, with the expectation that it might need to be trimmed.
Compared to some of the more complex aftermarket magazine limiters, the Allen Universal Shotgun Plug stood out because of its universality. I was considering a couple of metal plugs that were caliber-specific, but the universality and trimmability of the Allen plug won me over. My first impression was positive, albeit somewhat understated. It wasn’t flashy, but it appeared functional, durable, and exactly what I needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Universal Shotgun Plug to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Allen Universal Shotgun Plug during a waterfowl hunting trip in a marshy area with varying water depths. Installation was straightforward, requiring only a quick disassembly of my pump-action shotgun’s magazine tube. The plug slipped in easily behind the spring, feeling secure and stable.
The weather was typical for late-season duck hunting: cold and wet. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the Allen Universal Shotgun Plug performed flawlessly. Loading the restricted number of shells was smooth, and I experienced no binding or feeding issues. After a morning of shooting, I checked the plug; it remained firmly in place.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use during multiple hunting trips and clay shooting sessions, the Allen Universal Shotgun Plug has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or tear, and it continues to function as intended. Cleaning is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth alongside the other shotgun components.
Compared to my previous makeshift magazine-limiting methods (usually a dowel rod!), the Allen Universal Shotgun Plug is a significant improvement. It’s much more reliable, easier to install, and doesn’t rattle around inside the magazine tube. It has undoubtedly exceeded my expectations for such an inexpensive product.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Universal Shotgun Plug
Specifications
The Allen Universal Shotgun Plug is designed to fit most pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns that use a tube magazine. It is injection-molded from a rugged polymer and is green in color. The plug is designed to be trimmed if needed, allowing fine-tuning for different shotgun shell lengths.
These specifications are important because they ensure broad compatibility and customization. The polymer construction offers durability without adding excessive weight or causing damage to the magazine spring or follower. The ability to trim the plug allows users to tailor it to their specific shotgun and preferred shell length, preventing any potential feeding issues or magazine binding.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Universal Shotgun Plug excels at its primary function: limiting the magazine capacity of a shotgun to comply with hunting regulations. It performs this task reliably and without interfering with the shotgun’s normal operation. The plug is easy to install and remove, making it convenient for transitioning between hunting and other shooting activities.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. A potential weakness is the need for trimming to achieve the desired capacity, but this is also a strength, providing customization options. It meets expectations by providing a low-cost, reliable solution for magazine capacity limitation.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen Universal Shotgun Plug features a simple, utilitarian design. The polymer construction keeps it lightweight and durable. The green color is not particularly stylish, but it’s functional.
The plug is easy to handle and install, requiring no special tools or expertise. There’s virtually no learning curve. It’s a simple product designed for a simple purpose, and it achieves that purpose effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction of the Allen Universal Shotgun Plug ensures good durability. It’s resistant to moisture, impacts, and temperature changes, making it suitable for use in various outdoor environments. Maintenance is minimal.
With proper care, the Allen Universal Shotgun Plug should last for many years. Replacing it, if necessary, is inexpensive. Its design minimizes the need for repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Universal Shotgun Plug doesn’t require any additional accessories for its primary function. The ability to trim the plug is itself a form of customization, allowing users to fine-tune the magazine capacity.
The plug is universally compatible with most shotguns that use tube magazines, meaning that users aren’t limited to specific brands or models. There aren’t any direct accessories that pair with it, as it is inherently self-contained.
Pros and Cons of Allen Universal Shotgun Plug
Pros
- Affordable. At $10.99, it is a budget-friendly way to comply with hunting regulations.
- Universal Fit. Designed to work with most pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns.
- Easy Installation. Simple design allows for quick and straightforward installation.
- Durable Polymer. Rugged polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Customizable. Can be trimmed to fine-tune the magazine capacity.
Cons
- Trimming Required: May require trimming to achieve the desired capacity, adding a small step to the installation process.
- Basic Design: The utilitarian design may not appeal to users seeking a more aesthetically pleasing option.
Who Should Buy Allen Universal Shotgun Plug?
The Allen Universal Shotgun Plug is perfect for:
- Hunters who need to comply with magazine capacity regulations.
- Shotgun owners seeking a simple and affordable magazine-limiting solution.
- Individuals who value ease of use and broad compatibility.
Who should skip this product? Shooters who require a magazine limiter for a specific shotgun model that demands a more precisely engineered solution might consider other options. This is a universal product, and while it works well, some may prefer a model-specific limiter.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharp knife or utility tool for trimming the plug is recommended for achieving the precise desired magazine capacity.
Conclusion on Allen Universal Shotgun Plug
The Allen Universal Shotgun Plug is a reliable, affordable, and easy-to-use solution for limiting the magazine capacity of shotguns. Its universal design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for hunters and shotgun enthusiasts who need to comply with regulations. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend the Allen Universal Shotgun Plug to anyone looking for a simple and effective magazine-limiting solution. It’s a small investment that provides peace of mind and ensures compliance with hunting laws. If you need to limit your shotgun’s magazine capacity, don’t hesitate – pick up an Allen Universal Shotgun Plug.