First Impressions of Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve always believed that having the right equipment can make all the difference, especially when it comes to firearms. Shotguns, in particular, offer unmatched versatility, whether you’re hunting waterfowl, defending your home, or competing in 3-gun matches. The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel promises to boost the capacity of some very popular shotguns, offering that extra edge when every shot counts.
For years, I’ve relied on factory-standard magazine capacities, often finding myself wishing for just a few more rounds. I needed a reliable solution that wouldn’t compromise the balance or handling of my shotgun while offering a significant increase in firepower. That’s what led me to this magazine extension – the promise of six extra rounds and a convenient sling swivel.
My first impression upon unboxing the Briley extension was positive. The 6061 aluminum construction felt solid, and the finish looked durable. Compared to some cheaper extensions I’ve seen, this one exuded quality. I was excited to get it installed and see how it performed.
Having used Nordic Components extensions in the past, I was curious how the Briley offering would stack up. The Briley extension seemed more streamlined, and the integrated sling swivel was a definite plus. I chose this one because of the name reputation and the specific compatibility with my Beretta A300.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of caution. I know that not all magazine extensions are created equal. I hoped this one would live up to its promise of increased capacity and reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Briley extension at my local shooting range. I fitted it to my Beretta A300 Outlander. I wanted to get a feel for the added weight and balance with live rounds.
The added weight was noticeable, but manageable, and the balance of the shotgun remained surprisingly good. I ran through several drills, practicing quick reloads and target transitions. The extension fed smoothly, and I experienced no malfunctions in my first 50 rounds.
After the range, I took the extended shotgun on a duck hunting trip in the Louisiana bayou. The conditions were typical: humid, muddy, and occasionally rainy. The sling swivel proved invaluable, allowing me to carry the shotgun comfortably while navigating the marsh.
The extension performed flawlessly, even with the gun getting wet and muddy. There were no hiccups during the hunt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Briley extension has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through my Beretta A300 with the extension installed. I’ve experienced zero failures to feed or any other magazine-related issues.
The 6061 aluminum construction has held up well to the rigors of hunting and range use. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to mud, rain, and the occasional bump against trees and brush. Cleaning the extension is also straightforward. Simply wipe it down with a cloth and apply a light coat of oil to prevent corrosion.
Compared to my experiences with cheaper magazine extensions in the past, the Briley is in a different league. Those budget options often suffered from malfunctions. They would also show signs of wear and tear much more quickly. This is a superior product.
Breaking Down the Features of Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel
Specifications
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel is designed to increase the capacity of compatible shotguns by six rounds. It’s constructed from tough 6061 aluminum, offering a good balance of strength and weight.
The extension is compatible with a wide range of shotguns. Those include: Stoeger M3K, Stoeger M3000, Stoeger M3500, Franchi Model 912, Beretta A300, Beretta A400 Xtreme, Beretta 1301 Competition, Benelli Nova, Benelli SuperNova, Beretta Tx4 Storm, Beretta A350, and Beretta A391 Xtrema II. The extension includes an integrated sling swivel and a high-quality magazine tube spring. This is critical for reliable feeding.
These specifications translate to increased firepower, durability, and convenience. The aluminum construction ensures the extension can withstand harsh conditions. The added sling swivel makes carrying the shotgun much more comfortable.
Performance & Functionality
The Briley extension performs its primary job flawlessly: increasing magazine capacity without compromising reliability. The extension tube screws securely onto the magazine tube and locks the forend in place. This prevents any unwanted movement. The extended magazine spring ensures consistent and reliable feeding of shells.
The main strength of this extension is its reliability. It just works. A potential weakness, though minor, is the added weight at the front of the shotgun. Some shooters might prefer a lighter setup. Overall, the Briley extension exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Briley extension boasts a streamlined and functional design. The 6061 aluminum provides excellent build quality. The weight is noticeable, but the overall balance remains acceptable.
The extension is remarkably user-friendly. Installation is simple and straightforward, requiring only basic tools. There is practically no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Briley extension is built to last. The 6061 aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion and wear. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the extension and magazine spring are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down after each use and occasional lubrication are all that is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel comes with the necessary magazine tube spring and an integrated sling swivel. No other accessories are included.
However, the extension is compatible with various aftermarket sling attachments that can be mounted on the sling swivel. This allows for further customization based on personal preferences. Adding a high-visibility follower is another popular modification to visually confirm an empty magazine tube.
Pros and Cons of Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel
Pros
- Increased magazine capacity by six rounds. This is invaluable for competitive shooting and hunting.
- Durable 6061 aluminum construction. It stands up to harsh conditions.
- Integrated sling swivel. Makes carrying the shotgun more comfortable.
- Easy to install and maintain. Requires no specialized tools or skills.
- Compatible with a wide range of popular shotguns. Versatile and adaptable.
Cons
- Added weight at the front of the shotgun. Can affect balance for some shooters.
- Relatively high price compared to some other extensions. Quality comes at a cost.
Who Should Buy Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel?
This extension is perfect for competitive shooters who need the extra rounds for faster stage times and fewer reloads. It’s also great for hunters, especially waterfowl hunters, who want to maximize their capacity in the field. Home defense enthusiasts seeking an increased firepower advantage will also benefit.
If you are extremely weight-sensitive, or you are on a very tight budget, you might want to consider alternative options. But be prepared to potentially sacrifice reliability or durability.
A must-have accessory would be a high-visibility magazine follower to easily identify when the magazine is empty. A quality sling is also highly recommended to take full advantage of the integrated sling swivel.
Conclusion on Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Sling Swivel is a high-quality accessory that delivers on its promises. It offers a significant increase in firepower without sacrificing reliability. The durable construction and integrated sling swivel make it a worthwhile investment for serious shotgun users.
While the price is higher than some alternatives, the Briley extension justifies its cost with its superior performance and long-lasting durability. The peace of mind knowing that you have a reliable magazine extension is worth the extra money.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Briley extension to anyone looking to enhance the capabilities of their compatible shotgun. Upgrade your firepower and versatility today!