First Impressions of Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch
The Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch is a name that promises enhanced functionality for some of the most popular shotguns on the market. Briley is a well-respected name in the shooting sports world, particularly known for their chokes and shotgun accessories. The promise of easier bolt release, especially during fast-paced shooting scenarios, immediately piqued my interest.
As a competitive shooter and instructor, I’m always looking for ways to improve efficiency and speed. I’ve been quad-loading my Benelli M2 for years, and the factory bolt release, while functional, always felt a bit small and fiddly, especially under pressure. Other extended bolt releases I’ve tried felt bulky or poorly integrated, ultimately hindering more than helping.
Upon receiving the Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction. The 6061 Aluminum felt robust and the Tactical finish was clean and professional. Holding it in my hand, the tactical paddle felt like a significant improvement over the factory button. My initial excitement stemmed from the prospect of a more intuitive and reliable bolt release, particularly with the “offset upward” design for better quad-loading clearance.
Compared to the factory bolt release and other aftermarket options, the Briley lever stands out due to its seemingly thoughtful design. Many extended releases simply add a larger button, potentially interfering with other controls or snagging on gear. The Briley lever’s upward offset is unique. My hope is that Briley has solved both ease of access and eliminated interference problems in one fell swoop.
My first impression is one of cautious optimism. The Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch looks and feels like a quality piece, but the true test will be how it performs under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever at my local shooting range during a 3-gun practice session. The conditions were relatively dry, with a slight breeze, typical of a Southern California day. Installing the lever on my Benelli M2 was straightforward, taking only a few minutes.
Immediately, I noticed the difference in feel compared to the factory release. The larger paddle was much easier to locate without looking, even while wearing gloves. During quad-loading drills, the upward offset of the lever provided noticeably more clearance. Activating the bolt release felt more natural and required less force. There were no malfunctions or unexpected surprises after the first session, which consisted of approximately 100 rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including weekly range trips and a couple of 3-gun matches, the Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever has proven to be a reliable upgrade. The Tactical finish has held up well, showing no signs of wear despite being subjected to the rigors of competition. I regularly clean my shotgun after each use, and the Briley lever requires no special maintenance.
Compared to my previous experiences with the stock bolt release and a few other aftermarket options, the Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever noticeably outperforms them in terms of speed, ease of use, and overall reliability. It has become an indispensable part of my competition setup. There have been no failures to release, even when the shotgun is heavily fouled with powder residue.
Breaking Down the Features of Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Briley. Briley is renowned for its precision engineering and commitment to quality.
- Fabric/Material: 6061 Aluminum. The use of 6061 Aluminum ensures both strength and lightweight properties.
- Finish: Tactical. The Tactical finish provides a durable and non-reflective surface.
- Gun Make: Benelli, Franchi. This lever is designed to fit a range of popular Benelli and Franchi shotgun models.
- Gun Type: Shotgun. The lever is specifically designed for use on shotguns.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the lever’s performance and longevity. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, while the Tactical finish protects against corrosion and wear. Compatibility with Benelli and Franchi shotguns makes it a versatile upgrade for a wide range of shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever performs its job exceptionally well by making bolt release faster and more reliable. The larger paddle is easier to locate and activate, even under stress or when wearing gloves. The upward offset provides crucial clearance for quad-loading, a technique favored by competitive shooters.
The primary strength of the Briley lever is its improved ergonomics. There are few weaknesses, although some users with smaller hands might find the paddle slightly too large. The lever exceeds my expectations in terms of speed and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the 6061 Aluminum feeling solid and well-machined. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the shotgun. The design is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or gunsmithing skills for installation.
The ergonomic design of the paddle makes it comfortable to use, even during extended shooting sessions. There is no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on several months of use, I expect the Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever to last for many years with proper care. The aluminum construction and durable finish are resistant to wear and corrosion. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a mild solvent.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever is a standalone upgrade, requiring no additional accessories for its intended function. While there are no direct customization options for the lever itself, its enhanced functionality complements other shotgun modifications, such as improved followers, springs, and shell carriers.
The Briley lever is compatible with most aftermarket accessories designed for Benelli and Franchi shotguns.
Pros and Cons of Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch
Pros
- Enhanced Speed and Efficiency: Significantly speeds up bolt release, crucial for competitive shooting.
- Improved Ergonomics: Larger paddle and upward offset provide a more natural and comfortable feel.
- Durable Construction: 6061 Aluminum and Tactical finish ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Simple drop-in replacement with no gunsmithing required.
- Quad-Loading Clearance: The upward offset allows for improved quad-loading.
Cons
- Price: The $180.00 price tag may be steep for some users.
- Paddle Size: Potentially too large for users with smaller hands.
Who Should Buy Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch?
The Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch is perfect for competitive shooters, particularly those involved in 3-gun or practical shotgun disciplines. It is also a great upgrade for tactical shooters who need a reliable and easy-to-access bolt release. Hunters who use Benelli or Franchi shotguns in fast-paced scenarios will also benefit.
Those who are primarily casual shooters or who are on a tight budget may want to consider other options. Users with smaller hands might find the paddle too large and should test it before committing to the purchase.
Must-have accessories to complement the Briley lever include high-quality shell carriers and improved magazine followers for enhanced feeding reliability.
Conclusion on Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch
The Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever for Benelli/Franchi w/ Tactical Paddle/Latch is a worthwhile investment for serious shotgun enthusiasts. While the price may be a barrier for some, the enhanced speed, improved ergonomics, and durable construction justify the cost for those seeking a competitive edge or improved tactical performance.
The value proposition is strong. The difference in ease of use and speed compared to the factory bolt release is significant. I would personally recommend it to any shooter looking to upgrade their Benelli or Franchi shotgun.
If you’re serious about your shotgun shooting, the Briley EZ Bolt Release Lever is a must-have upgrade. Don’t settle for a mediocre bolt release when you can have the best.