Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY Review

The Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY Made a Bold First Impression

The Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY promised a custom fit and reduced recoil for my Benelli M4, a shotgun I rely on heavily for both recreational shooting and, frankly, peace of mind. I had been searching for a stock upgrade for my Benelli M4 for some time. The factory stock, while functional, lacked adjustability, making it difficult to achieve consistent cheek weld and comfortable length of pull, especially when wearing bulky tactical gear.

The need for a collapsible stock became acute after a recent force-on-force training exercise. I struggled to quickly shoulder and effectively engage targets while wearing a plate carrier. Several alternatives were considered, including offerings from Mesa Tactical and Magpul. I chose the Black River Pro offering, primarily because of its combination of adjustability – both length of pull and cheek comb – and the promise of a recoil-reducing “SHOCK FORCE” system.

Upon unboxing, I was initially impressed with the stock’s aggressive styling and the over-molded pistol grip. The grey color was a nice change from the standard black. However, a closer inspection revealed some concerns. The plastic felt somewhat less robust than I anticipated, and the package was noticeably incomplete. It only included the stock itself and a single bolt, which was alarming. There was no buffer tube or instructions included. This omission immediately tempered my initial enthusiasm.

Real-World Testing: Putting Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, where I typically run drills with my Benelli M4. Installation proved immediately problematic due to the missing buffer tube. Scrambling, I managed to source a compatible AR-style buffer tube from my spare parts bin. Without instructions, the installation process was a bit of a guessing game, requiring some online research to ensure proper assembly.

The first few shots were…underwhelming. While the adjustable length of pull and cheek comb did allow for a more customized fit, the SHOCK FORCE recoil system felt incredibly stiff. Instead of reducing felt recoil, it seemed to amplify it, delivering a sharp, jarring impact with each shot. Furthermore, by the sixth round, a disturbing cracking sound emanated from the stock. Closer examination revealed a developing crack near the buffer tube interface.

Extended Use & Reliability

“Extended use” is a generous term. The stock’s failure after only six rounds effectively ended my testing. The damage to the plastic was substantial enough that I considered the stock unsafe to continue using. There was certainly no way to run it through any further paces.

Durability proved to be a significant issue, to put it mildly. The plastic construction, combined with the overly stiff recoil system, created a recipe for premature failure. Cleaning and maintenance were irrelevant, as the stock was essentially unusable after such limited use. This experience was a stark disappointment compared to my experiences with other aftermarket stocks, which have typically proven far more durable and reliable.

Breaking Down the Features of Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY

Specifications

The Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY boasts the following specifications:

• 6-position adjustable stock for precise length of pull: This is intended to allow for a customized fit based on user size and gear.
• 5-position adjustable cheek comb for precise sight alignment: This should aid in achieving a consistent cheek weld, improving accuracy.
• AR style buffer tube: This allows the use of readily available AR-pattern buffer tubes, though one isn’t included.
• Rubber over molded pistol grip: This is designed to enhance grip and comfort.
• Ambidextrous QD Swivel sockets: These provide versatile sling attachment points for both left- and right-handed users.
• SHOCK FORCE recoil system (stiff spring tension): This is intended to reduce felt recoil, though it needs refinement.
• QD sling swivel: A sling swivel should be included for easy sling attachment, though again, it needs to be noted that the product only included a single bolt.

The specifications are reasonably impressive on paper. The adjustability and ambidextrous features are desirable. However, the execution and materials leave much to be desired, and the SHOCK FORCE system feels counterproductive in its current implementation.

Performance & Functionality

The Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY unfortunately falls short in its primary function. While the adjustable length of pull and cheek comb offer some degree of customization, the SHOCK FORCE system detracts from the overall shooting experience. The stock’s premature failure further compounds its performance issues.

The strengths of the stock are limited to its adjustability potential. However, the weaknesses far outweigh the positives. The recoil system needs significant redesign. The plastic needs to be more durable. Also, all necessary components need to be included. In its current state, it doesn’t meet expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The stock’s aggressive styling and rubber over-molded pistol grip are aesthetically pleasing and offer a comfortable handhold. The adjustability features are also well-designed. However, the choice of plastic and the overly stiff recoil system detract from the overall ergonomics.

The lack of instructions adds a layer of complexity to the installation process. However, the basic design is relatively user-friendly once you figure it out. There’s a definite learning curve due to the missing instructions.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the durability of the Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY is questionable at best. Failure after only six rounds indicates a serious design or manufacturing flaw. Maintenance is largely irrelevant given its limited lifespan.

Repair is likely not feasible given the nature of the damage. Replacing the entire stock is the only viable option. I would not expect this stock to last long under even moderate use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The stock is designed to be compatible with standard AR-style buffer tubes, which allows for some degree of customization. However, the lack of included buffer tube is a significant omission. The ambidextrous QD swivel sockets offer versatility in sling attachment.

Beyond the buffer tube, there are no readily apparent customization options. The integrated cheek comb and pistol grip are fixed features. The compatibility with standard slings is a plus.

Pros and Cons of Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY

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Who Should Buy Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY?

This stock is difficult to recommend to anyone in its current state. Perhaps someone with significant gunsmithing experience who is willing to completely overhaul the recoil system and reinforce the plastic could find some value. However, for the average shooter, hunter, or tactical user, the Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY is best avoided.

Who should skip this product? Anyone looking for a reliable, durable, and effective stock upgrade for their Benelli M4 should look elsewhere. There are many other options on the market that offer superior performance and build quality. Must-have accessories or modifications? At a minimum, a compatible buffer tube is required. However, I would strongly recommend considering a different stock altogether.

Conclusion on Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY

The Black River Pro Benelli M4 Elite Collapsible Stock (Shock Force) – GREY is a disappointing product that fails to deliver on its promises. The questionable durability, missing components, and ineffective recoil system make it a poor choice for anyone seeking a reliable upgrade for their Benelli M4. The price of $212.99 is simply not justified given the stock’s significant flaws.

I cannot personally recommend this product. There are far better alternatives available on the market that offer superior performance, durability, and value. My final thought is to save your money and invest in a stock from a more reputable manufacturer.

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