First Thoughts on the Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip
The Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip enters a crowded market promising enhanced versatility for your 12-gauge shotgun. This aftermarket stock aims to offer better ergonomics, recoil management, and compact storage. I’m particularly interested in how well it balances tactical features with practical usability, especially for someone already familiar with standard shotgun configurations.
I’ve always been on the lookout for ways to improve the maneuverability of my home defense shotgun without sacrificing accuracy or comfort. Standard stocks can be cumbersome in tight spaces, and the promise of a folding stock piqued my interest. The Charles Daly option seemed like a cost-effective way to experiment with a more tactical setup.
My first impression upon unboxing the Charles Daly HONCHO was that it looked surprisingly robust for its price point. The polymer felt solid, and the folding mechanism seemed reasonably tight. The pistol grip had a noticeable texture, which gave me confidence in its ability to provide a secure hold.
Compared to other tactical stocks I’ve considered, like those from Magpul or Mesa Tactical, the Charles Daly HONCHO is significantly more budget-friendly. I chose this one primarily because I wanted to see if a folding stock was a good fit for my needs without making a huge investment. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic – excited about the potential, but aware that some compromises might be present at this price.
Real-World Testing: Putting Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Charles Daly HONCHO at an outdoor shooting range, mounting it on a standard Remington 870 12-gauge. The day was moderately warm and dry, ideal for evaluating handling and recoil management. I ran a variety of loads through the shotgun, from light target loads to heavier buckshot, to assess its performance under different recoil levels.
The initial installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and about 15 minutes. While the Adjustable Tactical Stock allowed for a decent length-of-pull adjustment, it became immediately apparent that the polymer, while durable, wasn’t as comfortable against the cheek as a softer, more premium material. During the first few rounds of buckshot, the Shock-Absorbing Recoil Pad did a reasonable job of mitigating recoil, but I felt more muzzle rise than with my original stock.
The Ergonomic Pistol Grip was a definite improvement in terms of control, allowing for a secure grip. However, after about 50 rounds, the aggressive texturing started to feel a little abrasive. The folding mechanism worked flawlessly during this initial test, allowing for easy manipulation and locking securely in both open and closed positions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, incorporating multiple range trips and some dry-fire practice at home, the Charles Daly HONCHO has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of structural failure, but some minor cosmetic wear is visible on the folding hinge and the pistol grip.
The polymer seems resistant to scratches and impacts, but I’ve noticed that it can become a bit slick when exposed to moisture, especially sweat. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes most residue. Compared to my previous stock, the Charles Daly HONCHO provides a more compact profile for storage but does introduce a slightly different recoil impulse that required some getting used to.
Breaking Down the Features of Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip
Specifications
The Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip is an aftermarket stock designed to replace the factory stock on most standard 12-gauge pump-action shotguns. It’s crafted from high-strength, lightweight polymer for durability without adding excessive weight.
It features an adjustable length-of-pull, allowing users to customize the fit for different body types and shooting styles. This matters greatly for comfort and accuracy, particularly when shooting with body armor or heavy clothing.
The inclusion of a folding stock mechanism enables compact storage and enhanced maneuverability in tight spaces. This is particularly useful for home defense or tactical scenarios where space is limited.
An ergonomic pistol grip provides enhanced control and a secure, non-slip hold, even during high-intensity use. This promotes better weapon handling and faster follow-up shots.
The integrated rubber recoil pad helps reduce felt recoil, making extended shooting sessions more comfortable. This allows for more accurate follow-up shots.
Designed with accessory attachment slots, it accommodates additional accessories like slings, lights, or optics. This allows for a fully customizable setup to meet individual needs.
Performance & Functionality
The Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip performs its primary function of improving ergonomics and reducing felt recoil adequately for its price. Accuracy is maintained, but the modified recoil impulse may require some adjustment. The folding stock feature works well, making the shotgun significantly more compact for storage and transport.
The Adjustable Tactical Stock does provide some customization, but the adjustment range could be wider to accommodate a broader range of users. A significant strength of this stock is its lightweight design. A notable weakness is the slightly increased muzzle climb compared to a heavier, fixed stock. Overall, the Charles Daly HONCHO meets expectations for a budget-friendly tactical upgrade, but it doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Charles Daly HONCHO is constructed from a durable, but somewhat basic, high-strength polymer. The build quality is acceptable for the price, although the fit and finish are not as refined as higher-end options. The weight is noticeably less than a standard wood stock, making the shotgun feel more balanced.
The pistol grip is comfortable to hold, but the aggressive texturing might be too abrasive for some users. There is a slight learning curve associated with the folding mechanism. It requires a deliberate push of a button to operate smoothly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Charles Daly HONCHO appears to be durable enough to withstand regular use, but it’s unlikely to hold up to extreme abuse. Minor scratches and cosmetic wear are to be expected over time. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Replacing any parts is likely not feasible. Repair may be challenging given the stock’s relatively simple construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the stock itself. The attachment slots provide some degree of customization, allowing for the addition of slings, lights, or optics.
The stock is generally compatible with standard aftermarket shotgun accessories, such as sling mounts and rail attachments. However, it’s important to verify compatibility before purchasing any accessories to ensure a proper fit.
Pros and Cons of Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip
Pros
- Affordable Price: One of the most budget-friendly tactical stock options available.
- Folding Stock: Significantly reduces overall length for storage and maneuverability.
- Ergonomic Pistol Grip: Enhances control and provides a secure hold.
- Adjustable Length-of-Pull: Allows for a customized fit for different shooters.
- Lightweight Design: Doesn’t add significant weight to the shotgun.
Cons
- Polymer quality feels slightly basic.
- Recoil management is adequate but not exceptional.
- Aggressive grip texturing might be uncomfortable for some users.
Who Should Buy Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip?
The Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking to add tactical features to their 12-gauge shotgun. It’s also a good fit for those who need to store their shotgun in a compact space. It’s ideal for home defense or recreational shooting where maneuverability is a priority.
This product might not be the best choice for users who prioritize maximum recoil reduction or demand the highest-quality materials. Professional users who require extreme durability and reliability should also consider higher-end options. A must-have modification would be a quality sling, to make the most of the compact, folding design.
Conclusion on Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip
The Charles Daly HONCHO Pump 12GA Folding Tactical Buttstock w/ Pistol Grip offers a reasonable upgrade for your shotgun at an extremely attractive price point. It provides enhanced ergonomics, a folding stock for compact storage, and some degree of customization. While it doesn’t match the performance or build quality of premium brands, it offers excellent value for the money.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. I would recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable way to dip their toes into the world of tactical shotgun accessories. If you’re on a budget and want to improve the functionality of your shotgun, give the Charles Daly HONCHO a try.