First Impressions of Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel promises to significantly increase the capacity of some of the most popular shotguns on the market. Offered by Briley, a well-respected name in the shooting world known for their quality aftermarket parts, this extension aims to provide extra firepower and a tactical edge. With a carbon fiber body and aluminum ends, it balances weight and durability, which are both critical factors for any shotgun accessory.
As a tactical gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for reliable ways to improve the performance of my firearms. I needed to increase the capacity of my Beretta A400 Xtreme Unico for 3-gun competitions, and I was looking for an extension that wouldn’t add excessive weight or compromise the shotgun’s balance. The Briley extension caught my eye because of its carbon fiber construction and reputation for quality.
Upon receiving the extension, I was immediately impressed with its sleek design and lightweight feel. The carbon fiber tube looks and feels very high-quality, and the aluminum ends are precisely machined. The black anodized finish is clean and professional. Compared to steel extensions I’ve used in the past, this Briley model feels significantly lighter. I chose it over the Nordic Components extension because I was prioritizing weight savings without sacrificing durability. My initial reaction was excitement; this seems like a well-engineered product that will perform well on my shotgun.
Real-World Testing: Putting Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel at my local shooting range during a 3-gun practice session. The weather was clear and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing. Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes with the appropriate tools.
The extension performed flawlessly during the initial testing. It fed shells smoothly and reliably, with no malfunctions or issues. The added weight at the front of the shotgun was noticeable but manageable, and didn’t significantly impact my swing or recoil control. I was able to quickly adapt to the new balance of the gun and maintain consistent accuracy.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, including hot, dusty days at the range and wet, muddy hunts. There are only minor signs of wear and tear, mainly some slight scratches on the aluminum end cap.
The carbon fiber tube has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or deformation. Maintenance is simple; I just wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use. Compared to a previous steel extension, the Briley model requires less frequent cleaning and lubrication due to the corrosion-resistant properties of carbon fiber and aluminum. It has definitely outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Briley. This name is synonymous with quality in the shotgun world.
- Color: Black. The black anodized finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
- Finish: Carbon Fiber. The carbon fiber finish not only looks great but also contributes to the extension’s lightweight and durable construction.
- Fabric/Material: 6061 Aluminum. 6061 Aluminum provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio for the end caps.
- Magazine Capacity: 6 Round. This provides a significant increase in firepower for competitive shooting or tactical situations.
- Gun Make: Stoeger, Beretta, Franchi, Benelli. This extension is compatible with a wide variety of popular shotgun models.
- Gun Model: Stoeger M3K, Stoeger M3000, Stoeger M3500, Franchi Model 912, Beretta A300, Beretta A400 Xtreme, Beretta A391 Xtrema II, Beretta Tx4 Storm, Benelli Nova, Benelli SuperNova, Beretta A350, Beretta 1301 Competition. The broad compatibility makes it a versatile upgrade for many shotgun owners.
Performance & Functionality
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel significantly enhances the performance of compatible shotguns. It allows for faster follow-up shots and reduces the need for frequent reloading. The extension feeds shells smoothly and reliably, contributing to consistent performance in various shooting scenarios.
The main strength of this extension is its reliability and lightweight design. A potential weakness is the added length, which may make the shotgun slightly less maneuverable in tight spaces. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in shooting performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel features a streamlined design that integrates seamlessly with the host shotgun. The carbon fiber tube is both lightweight and strong, enhancing the shotgun’s overall balance. The extension is comfortable to hold and doesn’t interfere with the shooter’s grip.
Installation is straightforward, and the extension feels secure and well-integrated once installed. There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting to the new balance of the shotgun.
Durability & Maintenance
The combination of carbon fiber and aluminum makes the Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel highly durable. With proper care, this extension should last for many years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple and requires minimal effort.
Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional lubrication of the threads are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The quality construction ensures that repairs are unlikely to be necessary under normal use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel does not come with any included accessories, but it is compatible with various aftermarket shotgun accessories. These include magazine clamps, sling mounts, and enhanced followers.
The extension is designed to work seamlessly with standard shotgun forends and barrels. This allows for a high degree of customization to suit individual shooter preferences.
Pros and Cons of Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel
Pros
- Significantly increases magazine capacity for faster follow-up shots and reduced reloading.
- Lightweight carbon fiber construction minimizes added weight and maintains shotgun balance.
- Durable aluminum ends ensure reliable performance under demanding conditions.
- Compatible with a wide range of popular shotgun models, including Beretta, Benelli, Franchi, and Stoeger.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring minimal effort.
Cons
- The added length of the extension may reduce maneuverability in tight spaces.
- The $159.95 price point is higher than some steel extensions.
Who Should Buy Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel?
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel is perfect for competitive shooters, tactical shooters, and hunters who require increased firepower and reliability. It’s also well-suited for home defense enthusiasts who want to maximize the capacity of their shotguns. Anyone who owns a compatible shotgun and wants to enhance its performance will benefit from this extension.
This product might not be ideal for shooters who prioritize compactness above all else, as the added length can make the shotgun less maneuverable in confined spaces. Also, individuals on a very tight budget may find the price prohibitive.
A must-have accessory is a quality magazine clamp to secure the extension to the barrel and prevent movement. An enhanced follower can also improve feeding reliability.
Conclusion on Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger + 6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/o Swivel is a high-quality, reliable, and effective upgrade for compatible shotguns. Its carbon fiber construction and aluminum ends provide a perfect balance of lightweight and durability. The increased magazine capacity offers a significant advantage in competitive and tactical shooting scenarios.
While the price is higher than some alternatives, the superior performance and build quality justify the investment. I would highly recommend this extension to anyone looking to enhance the capabilities of their shotgun. If you’re serious about performance and reliability, the Briley extension is worth every penny. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the Briley difference!