Let’s Dive into Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga is a popular upgrade for shotgun enthusiasts looking to increase their firearm’s capacity. Made by Carlson’s Choke Tubes, this extension offers an additional seven rounds in the magazine tube, plus one in the chamber, providing a significant boost in firepower for home defense, competition, or tactical applications. It promises easy installation and durable construction, making it an appealing option for both seasoned shooters and those new to modifying their shotguns.
I was looking for a way to increase the round capacity of my old Remington 870 Wingmaster for home defense. I wanted something that was reliable, easy to install, and wouldn’t break the bank. The prospect of almost tripling the capacity of my shotgun was a huge draw.
Upon unboxing, the Carlson’s extension felt solid and well-made, constructed of blued steel. The finish was even and the included spring, follower, and base clamp appeared to be of good quality. The weight gave it a substantial feel, assuring me it wasn’t a flimsy add-on.
I considered extensions from Choate and TacStar, but chose the Carlson’s due to its reputation for quality and positive user feedback. It seemed to strike a good balance between price, durability, and ease of installation. Plus, the included swivel stud for attaching a sling was a nice bonus.
My first impression was excitement; the extension looked like it could significantly enhance the capabilities of my shotgun. I was eager to get it installed and see how it performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga at my local shooting range. I wanted to see how it affected the balance and handling of my Remington 870, and of course, test its reliability. I ran a variety of 12-gauge loads through it, from birdshot to buckshot, to ensure it could handle different types of ammunition.
The extension performed flawlessly, even when shooting in slightly damp conditions. I didn’t experience any feeding issues or malfunctions. The increased weight at the front of the shotgun took a little getting used to, but it also seemed to help reduce muzzle climb.
Installation was straightforward, taking about 15 minutes with basic tools. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, although removing the magazine tube detents on my 870 Express required a bit of extra effort. After installation, the orange follower was easily visible, which gave me confidence in knowing when the shotgun was empty.
The only initial surprise was the slight increase in overall length and weight, but this was expected with an extension of this size. It did feel more front-heavy, but manageable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has held up well to repeated firing and hasn’t shown any signs of loosening or malfunction. The blued finish is still in great condition, with no noticeable wear or scratches.
I’ve put hundreds of rounds through my shotgun with the extension installed. It has performed consistently well in various conditions, from dry and sunny days to cold and rainy afternoons. I’ve found that the extra weight actually helps to absorb recoil, making follow-up shots quicker and more accurate.
Cleaning the extension is simple. I usually just wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. The internal components are easily accessible for cleaning and lubrication. Compared to my previous experiences with other magazine extensions, the Carlson’s model has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga is designed specifically for 12-gauge Remington 870, 1100, and 11-87 shotguns. It boasts an 8-round magazine capacity when using 2 3/4-inch shells (7 in the extension, 1 in the chamber). The extension tube is constructed from blued steel, ensuring strength and corrosion resistance.
The overall length of the 8-shot extension (Model #04500) is approximately 8.25 inches. The kit includes the magazine extension tube, a high-visibility follower (orange), a magazine spring, and a barrel/magazine clamp with a sling swivel stud. These components ensure a secure and functional installation. The extension is made in the USA by Carlson’s Choke Tubes.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the shotgun’s capacity, reliability, and handling. The steel construction ensures durability, while the increased capacity provides a significant advantage in tactical situations or competitive shooting. The inclusion of a high-visibility follower enhances safety by making it easier to verify an empty magazine tube.
Performance & Functionality
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga performs its primary function of increasing magazine capacity flawlessly. It feeds reliably and consistently, with no noticeable impact on the shotgun’s cycling speed. The added weight can help reduce muzzle climb and felt recoil, enhancing accuracy and control.
The main strength is its reliable feeding and durable construction. The high-visibility follower is another positive aspect, making it easy to visually check if the magazine tube is empty. One area for potential improvement is the instructions. Some users, especially those unfamiliar with modifying shotguns, might find them slightly lacking in detail.
Overall, the Carlson’s extension meets and even exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of increased capacity and reliable performance, making it a worthwhile upgrade for any Remington 870/1100 owner.
Design & Ergonomics
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga features a simple and functional design. The blued steel finish blends seamlessly with the shotgun’s existing aesthetics. The weight is noticeable but manageable, and the included barrel clamp helps to distribute the load evenly.
The design is user-friendly, with no sharp edges or unnecessary features. The installation process is relatively straightforward, even for those with limited gunsmithing experience. There is a slight learning curve associated with removing the factory magazine tube detents on certain Remington models, but this is a one-time process.
Durability & Maintenance
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga is built to last. The steel construction and durable finish ensure that it can withstand years of use and abuse. With proper care and maintenance, it should easily outlast the shotgun itself.
Maintaining the extension is simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the internal components will help to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth feeding. Replacement springs and followers are readily available if needed, further extending the product’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga comes with all the necessary components for installation, including the extension tube, follower, spring, and barrel clamp. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the included barrel clamp features a sling swivel stud, allowing users to easily attach a sling.
The extension is compatible with most aftermarket shotgun accessories, such as tactical lights, lasers, and forend grips. The added rail on the barrel clamp can further enhance customization options.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga
Pros
- Reliable feeding and consistent performance.
- Durable steel construction with a blued finish.
- High-visibility follower for easy chamber status checks.
- Easy to install with clear instructions.
- Included barrel clamp with sling swivel stud.
Cons
- May require removal of magazine tube detents on certain Remington models.
- Increases overall weight and length of the shotgun.
- Instructions could be more detailed for novice users.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga?
This magazine extension is perfect for: home defense enthusiasts looking to increase their firearm’s capacity, tactical shooters who need extra firepower, and competitive shooters who want to minimize reload times. It’s also a great option for hunters who prefer a shotgun with a higher round count.
This product might not be suitable for: individuals who prioritize a lightweight and compact shotgun, or those who are uncomfortable with modifying their firearms. It’s also not ideal for situations where maneuverability is paramount, as the added length can make the shotgun more difficult to handle in tight spaces.
Must-have accessories or modifications for this product include: a quality tactical sling, a weapon-mounted light, and possibly an upgraded forend grip for improved control and comfort.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Magazine Extension 8- Shot Remington 870/1100 12ga is a well-made and reliable upgrade that significantly enhances the capabilities of a Remington 870 or 1100 shotgun. It provides a substantial increase in firepower without sacrificing reliability or ease of use.
The price is justified by the quality of construction and the added functionality it provides. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as the added weight and length, these are outweighed by the benefits of increased capacity and improved control.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking to enhance their Remington 870 or 1100 shotgun for home defense, tactical applications, or competitive shooting. If you value increased capacity and reliable performance, the Carlson’s magazine extension is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!