First Impressions of Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel
Shotguns are inherently versatile, but their limited capacity often leaves something to be desired. The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel promises to address this, offering a significant increase in firepower alongside the added benefit of a Picatinny rail for accessories. This extension aims to transform a standard shotgun into a more capable tool for home defense, competition, or even tactical applications.
My journey to this product began with a need for increased capacity in my Stoeger M3000 for 3-gun competitions. I was constantly reloading, losing valuable time and potentially placing lower than I should. I needed a reliable, robust solution that wouldn’t compromise the shotgun’s balance or functionality and allowed me to mount a light.
Upon receiving the extension, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction and clean, matte black finish. The 6061 aluminum felt substantial without being overly heavy, and the Picatinny rail was precisely machined. It felt like a high-quality piece of equipment.
I had previously considered the Nordic Components extension, known for its durability, and the Taccom extension, favored for its lightweight design. I ultimately chose the Briley extension for its combination of robust construction, integrated Picatinny rail, and reputation for reliability across multiple shotgun platforms, betting it was the best all-around option. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – it looked the part, but the real test would be how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Briley extension at my local shooting range, focusing on its impact on the shotgun’s handling and reliability with the added capacity. I cycled through a variety of loads, from light target rounds to heavy buckshot and slugs, to ensure consistent feeding and ejection. The added weight forward was noticeable, but surprisingly manageable, and helped mitigate recoil during rapid fire.
Installation was straightforward, though tightening the extension enough to secure the forend required a bit of effort. The only issue was a slight tendency for the follower to bind initially with cheaper bulk ammo, but that disappeared after cleaning the tube. Adding a weapon light to the picatinny rail was easy and locked up tight with no wiggle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Briley extension has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. It has endured countless rounds at the range and several 3-gun competitions without any failures or malfunctions. There is no sign of wear or tear on the aluminum body or the Picatinny rail.
Cleaning the extension is relatively simple. I disassemble it after each range trip and wipe down the internal components with a solvent-soaked cloth. Compared to other extensions I’ve used, the Briley offers a smoother, more consistent feeding experience and exhibits far better durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel
Specifications
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel is crafted from 6061 aluminum, providing a balance of strength and weight. It adds +6 rounds to your shotgun’s capacity and features an integrated Picatinny rail for mounting accessories.
This extension is compatible with a wide array of 12-gauge shotguns, including models from Stoeger (M3K, M3000, M3500), Franchi (Model 912), Beretta (A300, A400 Xtreme, A391 Xtrema II, Tx4 Storm, A350, 1301 Competition), and Benelli (Nova, SuperNova). The use of 6061 Aluminum is important because it provides durability without adding excessive weight. The +6 round capacity is a major selling point for those needing more firepower.
Performance & Functionality
The Briley extension performs exactly as intended, reliably increasing the shotgun’s ammunition capacity without compromising its functionality. It feeds rounds smoothly and consistently, even during rapid-fire sequences. The integrated Picatinny rail is sturdy and provides a stable platform for mounting lights, lasers, or other accessories.
The extension’s main strength is its reliability – it simply works. A potential weakness is its lack of a sling swivel attachment, which may require users to find alternative sling mounting solutions. It meets my expectations and delivers on its promise of increased capacity and accessory mounting capability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Briley extension features a clean, functional design that complements the aesthetics of most shotguns. The matte black finish is durable and resists scratches and wear. The added weight is noticeable, but it contributes to improved recoil management, especially during rapid-fire scenarios.
Installation is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools and mechanical skills. There is a slight learning curve involved in properly tightening the extension to ensure the forend is secure, but the process becomes easier with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The 6061 aluminum construction ensures excellent durability. After months of heavy use, there are no signs of cracking, bending, or other forms of damage. Maintaining the extension is simple: regular cleaning and lubrication are sufficient to keep it functioning optimally.
Given its robust construction and quality materials, the Briley extension should provide years of reliable service with proper care. The 6061 aluminum is corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for use in various environmental conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Briley extension itself doesn’t come with many accessories, but it is designed to enhance the functionality of your shotgun. The integrated Picatinny rail allows for the attachment of various accessories, such as weapon lights, lasers, and foregrips. It is compatible with most standard Picatinny rail-mounted accessories, providing a wide range of customization options. A wide variety of aftermarket followers also fit the extension tube.
Pros and Cons of Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel
Pros
- Provides a significant increase in ammunition capacity (+6 rounds).
- Durable 6061 aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Integrated Picatinny rail allows for easy attachment of accessories.
- Compatible with a wide range of popular shotgun models.
- Helps mitigate recoil, especially during rapid-fire scenarios.
Cons
- Lacks an integrated sling swivel attachment.
- Slight learning curve in properly tightening the extension during installation.
Who Should Buy Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel?
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel is perfect for competitive shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and tactical users who require increased ammunition capacity and the ability to mount accessories. This extension is also good for anyone who wants to increase the versatility of their shotgun. It might be more than someone needs for recreational target shooting.
Individuals prioritizing lightweight setups above all else or those on a very tight budget might want to explore other options. You could always get a cheaper extension, but it would not have the reliability and robust construction of the Briley. Must-have accessories include a high-quality weapon light and potentially an aftermarket follower for smoother feeding with certain types of ammunition.
Conclusion on Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel
The Briley Beretta Auto/Benelli Pump/Franchi 912 Variomax/Stoeger 12 Gauge +6 Rounds Shotgun Magazine Extension Picatinny w/o Sling Swivel is a well-built, reliable accessory that delivers on its promises. The price of $159.95 is justified given the quality of materials, robust construction, and added functionality it provides.
I would definitely recommend this extension to anyone looking to enhance their shotgun’s capabilities. It’s a worthwhile investment that can significantly improve performance in a variety of applications. Upgrade your shotgun today with the Briley extension and experience the difference!