First Impressions of Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard
The Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard promises to bring the venerable Benelli M4 into the 21st century with modern attachment capabilities. As someone deeply invested in tactical shotguns, I’ve always sought ways to improve the platform’s ergonomics and accessory mounting options, often finding the factory polymer handguard lacking.
I was looking for a robust, lightweight solution to mount lights, lasers, and other accessories without adding excessive bulk to my M4 clone. The promise of M-Lok compatibility, a lighter weight than the factory handguard, and the sleek aesthetics of the Black River Manufacturing design drew me in. This handguard aims to bridge the gap between classic reliability and modern modularity.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Black River Manufacturing Handguard’s clean lines and the quality of the aluminum. The fit and finish appeared excellent, and the weight felt significantly less than the original polymer handguard it was meant to replace. It felt substantial, not flimsy, and the M-Lok slots were precisely machined.
I considered other options like the Scalarworks Sync and various railed forends, but I wanted a balance of weight savings, modularity, and aesthetics, which this handguard seemed to offer. The Black River Manufacturing option promised a streamlined look with the versatility of M-Lok without the bulk of a quad-rail system. My initial excitement was high; I hoped this handguard would transform my M4 clone into the ultimate tactical shotgun.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on its impact on handling and accessory mounting. I installed a weapon light and a vertical foregrip to fully utilize the M-Lok slots. The handguard felt noticeably better in my hands, providing a more secure and comfortable grip compared to the factory plastic.
During the range session, I put about 200 rounds of various loads through my M4 clone. The Black River Manufacturing Handguard remained secure and did not loosen or shift during rapid firing. The M-Lok slots provided a solid platform for my accessories, with no noticeable flexing or movement.
I did experience some minor heat buildup after extended firing, but it was manageable and no worse than with the original handguard. My first use was positive overall; the handguard felt like a significant upgrade.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and multiple range trips, the Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my M4 clone. I’ve taken it through various conditions, including dusty environments and a few rainy days, and it has held up admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
Cleaning the handguard is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth is usually sufficient. The anodized finish has proven to be resistant to scratches and abrasions. Comparing it to my previous experiences with aftermarket handguards, this one stands out for its solid construction and ease of maintenance.
The Black River Manufacturing Handguard has definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability. It remains a significant improvement over the factory plastic, and I don’t foresee needing to replace it anytime soon.
Breaking Down the Features of Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard
Specifications
The Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard is crafted from high-quality aluminum for strength and weight reduction. It is specifically designed to fit the Benelli M4 and M4 clones.
Key specifications include:
- Gun Make: Benelli
- Gun Model: Benelli M4
- Gun Rail: M-LOK
- Weight: 8.6 oz
The M-Lok compatibility allows for direct attachment of a wide variety of accessories. The lighter weight compared to railed alternatives contributes to improved handling and reduced fatigue.
Performance & Functionality
The Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard significantly enhances the functionality of the shotgun. The M-Lok slots provide ample space for mounting lights, lasers, foregrips, and other essential accessories.
The strengths of the handguard include:
- Secure and stable accessory mounting.
- Improved ergonomics and grip.
- Lightweight design.
One potential area for improvement is heat mitigation after extended firing, though this is common with aluminum handguards. Overall, the handguard performs exceptionally well and meets my expectations for a high-quality aftermarket upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The Black River Manufacturing Handguard features a sleek and streamlined design that complements the aesthetics of the Benelli M4. The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a durable anodized finish.
The handguard feels comfortable in hand, providing a secure and natural grip. There is no significant learning curve involved in its use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard is built to last, constructed from robust aluminum. The anodized finish provides excellent resistance to corrosion and wear.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. With proper care, this handguard should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard is designed for maximum customization. The M-Lok slots are compatible with a wide range of accessories from various brands, including Magpul, Arisaka Defense, and Streamlight.
You can easily mount lights, lasers, foregrips, sling mounts, and other essential accessories directly to the handguard. The handguard provides a stable and secure platform for all your tactical needs.
Pros and Cons of Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard
Pros
- Lightweight and durable aluminum construction. This reduces weight compared to the factory handguard while providing enhanced durability.
- M-Lok compatibility for versatile accessory mounting. M-Lok allows for a wide range of accessories to be directly attached, reducing bulk.
- Improved ergonomics and grip. The handguard offers a more comfortable and secure grip compared to the stock handguard.
- Sleek and modern aesthetics. The Black River Manufacturing Handguard enhances the overall appearance of the Benelli M4.
- Easy to install and maintain. Installation is straightforward, and maintenance requires minimal effort.
Cons
- Heat buildup during extended firing. Aluminum handguards can become hot after prolonged use.
- Requires one-piece, extended magazine tube for proper fit. This may require an additional purchase.
Who Should Buy Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard?
The Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement officers, and home defense enthusiasts who want to upgrade their Benelli M4 or M4 clone with modern accessory mounting capabilities. It’s also a great fit for those seeking a lighter and more ergonomic handguard option.
Those who prefer a traditional quad-rail system or are on a very tight budget might want to explore other options. Also, keep in mind the requirement for a one-piece extended magazine tube.
A must-have accessory is a quality weapon light to take full advantage of the M-Lok slots. A vertical foregrip or angled foregrip can also enhance control and handling.
Conclusion on Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard
The Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard is a worthwhile upgrade for any Benelli M4 owner seeking enhanced functionality and aesthetics. The combination of lightweight aluminum construction, M-Lok compatibility, and improved ergonomics makes it a top contender in the aftermarket handguard market.
At $173.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and the significant improvement in handling and accessory mounting options. I would personally recommend this handguard to anyone looking to modernize their Benelli M4.
Elevate your Benelli M4 with the Black River Manufacturing Benelli M4 M-Lok Handguard and experience the difference!