Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension Review

Let’s Talk About Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension

The Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension promises a simple, affordable way to increase the capacity of your Mossberg shotgun. For years, I’ve relied on the Mossberg platform for everything from home defense to hunting, and the allure of adding extra firepower without breaking the bank is always appealing. This extension, manufactured by Choate Tool, aims to provide that additional capacity with a durable steel construction and easy installation.

I’ve always felt a bit limited by the standard capacity of my Mossberg 590. I needed a solution that wouldn’t compromise the shotgun’s reliability or handling. When I saw the Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension, its promise of adding a single shotshell at a budget-friendly price point piqued my interest.

Unboxing the Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension, my initial impression was one of utilitarian simplicity. The steel tube felt solid and hefty, inspiring confidence in its durability. It included the extension tube, a new magazine spring, and a high-visibility follower.

Compared to magazine extensions from brands like Nordic Components or GG&G, the Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension clearly targets a different market segment. Those other extensions offer modularity, lighter materials, and premium coatings, but at a significantly higher cost. I picked this one because it offered the promise of doing the job without the added expense.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The materials seemed robust, but I was eager to see how it would perform under real-world conditions.


Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension at my local shooting range, focusing on rapid cycling and various shot types. The weather was dry, and the temperature was a comfortable 70 degrees Fahrenheit. I primarily used standard birdshot and 00 buckshot loads.

Initially, I experienced a slight hesitation in feeding with the provided high-visibility follower. The action wasn’t as smooth as with the original factory setup. However, after a few magazine cycles, the feeding became more consistent.

The only real surprise was the length of the extension past the barrel on my 18.5″ 590. I anticipated it would be flush or slightly shorter, but it extended roughly an inch.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions spanning a few months, the Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension has proven to be reasonably reliable, albeit with a caveat. The finish shows minimal wear, indicating decent durability. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the extension tube and spring are essential for smooth operation.

I’ve noticed that the magazine spring requires occasional stretching to maintain optimal feeding pressure. Without this, the last round sometimes fails to feed correctly. This is a minor inconvenience but something to be aware of.

Compared to my previous experience with the factory magazine tube, the Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension adds a slight amount of weight to the front of the shotgun. This can be beneficial for recoil management but might require some adjustment for those used to a lighter setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Choate Tool.
  • Country of Origin: USA.
  • Capacity Increase: Adds one shotshell.
  • Construction: Steel.
  • Compatibility: Mossberg 590, Mossberg 835, and Mossberg 930.
  • Package Contents: Magazine extension, magazine tube spring, high-visibility shell follower.

These specifications are important because they dictate the overall performance and reliability of the extension. The steel construction ensures durability, while the one-shell capacity increase provides a reasonable boost without significantly altering the shotgun’s balance.

Performance & Functionality

The Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension performs its primary function of increasing magazine capacity adequately. It’s important to acknowledge that the provided follower might cause slight feeding issues as noted in user feedback. It is recommended to use the original follower for optimal feeding.

The main strength is its simplicity and affordability. The weakness lies in the potential feeding issues and the slightly protruding length past the barrel.

It meets the basic expectation of adding capacity but falls slightly short of delivering flawless performance straight out of the box.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent, with the steel construction feeling solid. The weight adds a noticeable, but manageable, heft to the front of the shotgun.

The design is straightforward, and the installation is relatively simple. Some users may find the protruding length aesthetically unappealing.

Durability & Maintenance

The steel construction suggests a long lifespan, provided it is properly maintained. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

Disassembly for cleaning is simple, requiring only basic tools. The magazine spring should be inspected and stretched periodically.

Accessories and Customization Options

The package includes the magazine extension, spring, and a high-visibility follower. There are limited customization options specifically for this extension.

It is compatible with various aftermarket shotgun accessories, such as slings and lights, that attach to the shotgun’s forend or barrel. The extension itself does not offer mounting points for accessories. Be sure to use bold and italic text where necessary to emphasize important points.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension

Pros

  • Affordable: Significantly cheaper than premium magazine extensions.
  • Durable: Steel construction ensures longevity.
  • Easy Installation: Simple design allows for straightforward installation.
  • Increased Capacity: Adds a valuable extra round to your Mossberg shotgun.
  • Made in the USA: Supports American manufacturing.

Cons

  • Feeding Issues: The provided follower may cause feeding problems.
  • Protruding Length: Extends past the barrel on 18.5″ models.


Who Should Buy Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension?

  • Perfect for: Budget-conscious shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and Mossberg owners seeking a simple capacity upgrade.
  • Who should skip this product? Those prioritizing flawless feeding, those wanting a flush-fitting extension with 18.5″ barrels, and those who need accessory mounting options on the extension itself.
  • Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider using the original Mossberg follower to improve feeding reliability.

Conclusion on Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension

The Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension offers a no-frills, budget-friendly way to increase the capacity of your Mossberg shotgun. While it’s not perfect, its durable steel construction and ease of installation make it a viable option for those on a tight budget.

The price is justified given its simplicity and functionality, making it an attractive option for those who don’t want to spend a fortune on a magazine extension.

I would recommend it with reservations. Be prepared to potentially use the original follower and accept the slight extension past the barrel.

If you’re looking for an affordable and straightforward capacity upgrade for your Mossberg, the Choate Tool Mossberg Magazine Extension is worth considering. Just remember to manage your expectations and be prepared for minor adjustments. Buy yours today and experience the extra firepower!

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