First Impressions of Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel
The Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel promises a significant capacity upgrade for some of the most popular semi-auto shotguns on the market. From Briley, a name synonymous with quality shotgun components, this extension aims to enhance firepower and versatility. It boasts a carbon fiber tube for weight reduction and aluminum ends for compatibility with various forend caps and end caps.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve often encountered situations where increased magazine capacity is crucial. I sought this product to improve the performance of my Benelli M2 for both home defense and competitive shooting scenarios. The promise of a lightweight, high-capacity extension from a reputable manufacturer intrigued me.
Upon unboxing, the Briley extension felt surprisingly light thanks to its carbon fiber construction. The aluminum ends appeared well-machined and the black anodized finish gave it a sleek, professional look. The carbon tube and Delrin collar seemed robust, hinting at good build quality and durability.
Compared to some steel extensions I’ve used in the past, this felt like a significant upgrade in terms of weight and potentially recoil management. I had considered a few other brands, but Briley’s reputation and the carbon fiber construction swayed my decision. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see how it performed in a live-fire environment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel at my local shooting range, under sunny but slightly breezy conditions. My Benelli M2 served as the host weapon, and I used a variety of 12-gauge loads, ranging from birdshot to buckshot. The primary goal was to assess reliability, feeding, and overall handling with the added weight and length.
Installation was straightforward, and the extension threaded onto the magazine tube without issue. The increased capacity was immediately apparent, giving the shotgun a more imposing presence. During the first few magazines, I noticed a slight increase in felt recoil, as expected with the added weight forward. There were no initial feeding issues, and the cycling remained smooth across all load types.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Briley extension has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it in various conditions, from dry summer days to damp autumn afternoons, and it hasn’t shown any signs of significant wear and tear. The carbon fiber tube remains unscratched, and the aluminum ends still retain their black anodized finish. Regular cleaning and lubrication have been the extent of my maintenance.
The extension has proven to be quite durable. It has withstood hundreds of rounds without any loosening or malfunctions. Comparing it to a previous steel extension, the Briley model feels significantly lighter and more balanced, contributing to faster follow-up shots. Overall, it has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel
Specifications
The Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel is designed to increase the magazine capacity of compatible shotguns by eight rounds. Its construction utilizes a carbon fiber tube for the main body and 6061 aluminum for the end caps and other components. This combination provides a balance of strength and weight reduction.
The extension is finished in black anodized aluminum, with optional finishes like Blue, Gold, and Red available upon request. It is compatible with Benelli M1, M2, Super Black Eagle I, II, & III, Super 90, and Breda shotguns. The magazine capacity is +8 rounds, significantly enhancing firepower. The clamp spacer is positioned optimally for barrels 24 inches or longer, but shorter barrels might require custom positioning.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel is to increase ammunition capacity, and it excels in this role. The extension adds a substantial amount of firepower to the shotgun. With proper installation and maintenance, it performs reliably and consistently, ensuring smooth feeding and cycling.
Its strengths lie in its lightweight construction and enhanced capacity. A potential weakness could be the requirement for custom positioning of the spacer on shorter barrels. It meets and exceeds expectations for anyone needing more rounds at their disposal, whether for competition, home defense, or tactical applications.
Design & Ergonomics
The combination of carbon fiber and aluminum gives the Briley extension a solid yet lightweight feel. The black anodized finish adds to its aesthetic appeal, and it blends seamlessly with the host shotgun. The swivel attachment point is a welcome addition, allowing for easy sling attachment and improved maneuverability.
The installation process is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools and mechanical knowledge. The ergonomic design ensures that the added length doesn’t significantly impact the shotgun’s balance or handling. Overall, it is a well-designed and user-friendly accessory.
Durability & Maintenance
The carbon fiber tube is resistant to scratches and impacts, ensuring a long service life. The 6061 aluminum end caps are robust and provide a secure attachment point. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining smooth operation, and the extension is easy to disassemble for thorough maintenance.
With proper care, the Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel should last for many years. The high-quality materials and construction contribute to its overall durability and reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Briley extension comes with a swivel attachment point for sling mounting. It is compatible with various forend caps and end caps, allowing for some customization. While it doesn’t directly support other accessories, the added capacity allows for longer engagement times without needing to reload.
Compatibility with aftermarket followers can further enhance feeding reliability. The ability to request custom finishes (Blue, Gold, or Red) adds a touch of personalization. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization, its core functionality is its primary strength.
Pros and Cons of Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/SwivelPros
- Significantly increases magazine capacity, providing a substantial firepower advantage.
- Lightweight carbon fiber construction reduces overall weight and improves handling compared to steel extensions.
- Durable 6061 aluminum ends ensure a secure and reliable attachment.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring only basic tools and knowledge.
- Swivel attachment point allows for convenient sling mounting.
Cons
- Clamp spacer may require custom positioning for barrels shorter than 24 inches.
- The price point is relatively high compared to some other magazine extensions on the market.
Who Should Buy Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel?
Pros
- Significantly increases magazine capacity, providing a substantial firepower advantage.
- Lightweight carbon fiber construction reduces overall weight and improves handling compared to steel extensions.
- Durable 6061 aluminum ends ensure a secure and reliable attachment.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring only basic tools and knowledge.
- Swivel attachment point allows for convenient sling mounting.
Cons
- Clamp spacer may require custom positioning for barrels shorter than 24 inches.
- The price point is relatively high compared to some other magazine extensions on the market.
The Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel is perfect for competitive shooters who need increased capacity for faster stage times. It is also ideal for home defense enthusiasts and tactical users who prioritize firepower and reliability. Hunters who require extended engagement capabilities without frequent reloading will also find it valuable.
Those who are primarily casual shooters or who own shotguns with shorter barrels (requiring modification) might want to explore other options. Individuals on a tight budget might also find the price prohibitive.
A quality sling would be a must-have accessory to take advantage of the integrated swivel. Additionally, consider using high-quality aftermarket followers for optimal feeding performance.
Conclusion on Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel
The Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel is a premium accessory that delivers on its promise of increased capacity and enhanced performance. Its lightweight carbon fiber construction and durable aluminum components make it a reliable addition to compatible Benelli and Breda shotguns.
While the price is higher than some alternatives, the quality and performance justify the investment for serious shooters. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to significantly increase the firepower of their shotgun without adding excessive weight.
If you’re ready to take your shotgun’s performance to the next level, the Briley Benelli/Breda Semi-Auto +8 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension w/Swivel is a worthwhile upgrade. Enhance your shotgun today!