Let’s Talk About ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier
The ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier promises a convenient way to keep extra rounds at the ready on your trusty shotgun. Made by ProMag, this shell carrier attaches directly to the receiver, offering a streamlined solution for faster reloads in the field or at the range. It boasts a capacity of 7 rounds of 20-gauge shells, constructed from durable black polymer.
I was looking for a reliable and accessible way to increase the capacity of my Remington 870 for hunting and home defense scenarios. I wanted something that didn’t add excessive bulk but provided quick access to additional rounds. The promise of enhanced reload speed and a streamlined design drew me to the ProMag shell carrier.
Upon receiving the ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier, my initial impression was of a solid, well-molded piece of polymer. It felt relatively lightweight, which was a plus. The black finish looked clean and appeared durable.
I considered a few other options, including side-saddle shell carriers from TacStar and elastic stock sleeves from Allen. I chose the ProMag because it seemed to offer a more integrated and robust design, potentially providing better retention and faster access than the elastic sleeves. I also preferred the rigid construction to the TacStar‘s more flexible design.
My initial excitement was tempered by the realization that the necessary Allen keys were missing for installation, as mentioned in the user feedback. This was disappointing. I also felt a sense of apprehension after reading the user review about potential fitment issues with the factory forend.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially attempted to install the ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier in my workshop. It was a controlled environment. My first hurdle was the missing Allen keys, forcing me to dig through my tool collection to find suitable replacements.
After finally managing to attach the carrier, I cycled the action of my Remington 870. I immediately encountered the issue described in the user feedback: the factory forend collided with the shell carrier, preventing the chamber from fully opening. This was a significant setback.
The initial installation process was frustrating due to the missing tools, and the incompatibility with the factory forend rendered the product unusable without further modifications or replacement parts. This significantly detracted from the overall ease of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
Given the immediate fitment issues, I was unable to conduct any extended field testing. I did not want to risk damaging the shotgun or the shell carrier. I explored alternative forend options, but the added expense and effort were discouraging.
Without proper mounting and use, I cannot comment on the long-term durability or wear and tear of the ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier. The polymer construction appeared solid, but without real-world use, this is purely speculative.
Maintenance was not applicable in my case since the shell carrier was never properly installed. However, the smooth polymer surface suggests that cleaning would be relatively simple with a damp cloth.
Based on my experience, the ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier falls significantly short of expectations. The immediate incompatibility with a standard Remington 870 forend is a major flaw. It completely undermines the product’s intended function.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier
Specifications
The ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier is designed specifically for 20-gauge Remington 870 shotguns. It holds up to 7 shotgun shells.
The shell carrier is constructed from black polymer, intended to be durable and lightweight. It attaches to the receiver via screws.
The capacity of 7 rounds is a significant increase over the standard magazine capacity of most Remington 870 shotguns. The polymer construction is intended to resist impacts and environmental factors.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier is to provide quick access to additional ammunition. Ideally, this would improve reload speeds and overall readiness in tactical or hunting situations.
Due to the fitment issues, I couldn’t properly assess its functionality. The incompatibility with the factory forend is a major weakness. This design flaw renders the product unusable for many Remington 870 owners without modifications.
The product does not meet expectations. A product designed for a specific shotgun model should be compatible with standard components. The lack of compatibility is unacceptable.
Design & Ergonomics
The ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier features a streamlined design intended to minimize bulk. The black polymer construction is functional, if not particularly aesthetically pleasing.
The shell carrier’s ergonomics are difficult to assess fully due to the fitment issue. It appears that shell access could be quick and easy, if properly installed. However, the necessary forend replacement adds an unnecessary layer of complexity.
There is a significant learning curve associated with this product. Modifying or replacing the factory forend adds an extra step beyond the simple installation that should be expected.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction of the ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier suggests reasonable durability. However, long-term performance is impossible to determine without extended use.
Maintenance should be simple, involving only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The shell carrier appears to be a single molded piece, minimizing potential points of failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier does not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware (screws, when included). The primary “customization” option becomes the necessary replacement of the factory forend.
Compatibility with other accessories is not directly affected by the ProMag shell carrier itself. However, the need to replace the forend opens the door to aftermarket forend options. These options may offer features like accessory rails.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier
Pros
- Potentially increases ammunition capacity for quicker reloads.
- Durable polymer construction suggests long-term reliability.
- Streamlined design aims to minimize bulk on the shotgun.
Cons
- Incompatible with the factory forend on some Remington 870 models.
- May require additional expenses and modifications (forend replacement).
- Missing installation tools (Allen keys) create immediate frustration.
Who Should Buy ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier?
This product might be suitable for individuals who are already planning to replace their Remington 870’s factory forend with an aftermarket option. These individuals should verify compatibility before purchasing this shell carrier.
Anyone who wants a simple, drop-in upgrade for their Remington 870 should avoid this product. The potential incompatibility and need for modification make it unsuitable for those seeking a hassle-free solution.
A must-have modification would be a compatible aftermarket forend. Without it, the ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier is essentially useless.
Conclusion on ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier
The ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier ultimately fails to deliver on its promise of a simple and effective upgrade. The glaring incompatibility with the factory forend on Remington 870 shotguns is a critical design flaw.
The price of $42.59 is not justified, given the likelihood of needing to purchase a replacement forend. This significantly increases the overall cost and effort required.
I would not personally recommend the ProMag Archangel Remington Model 870 7-Round 20-Gauge Shell Carrier. The fitment issues and missing installation tools make it a frustrating and unreliable product.
Proceed with extreme caution. Thoroughly research forend compatibility before considering this shell carrier, or seek a different solution altogether.