Let’s Talk About Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension
The Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension is designed to increase the capacity of your Franchi Affinity shotgun, offering an additional five rounds. For tactical users or those who appreciate more firepower at the range, this extension can be a significant upgrade.
I’ve always found myself wanting that extra edge during clay shooting and the Franchi Affinity is a dream to shoot, so more capacity was a natural next step. I was seeking a reliable and durable extension that seamlessly integrated with my Franchi Affinity without sacrificing balance or aesthetics.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the solid feel of the steel construction. The blued finish gives it a professional look and a reassuring heft that speaks to its durability. The provided spring, follower, and clamp seemed well-made, promising a straightforward installation.
I considered extensions from Nordic Components and Benelli, but the Choate Tool offering presented a more budget-friendly option while still boasting a steel construction. I wanted something robust and not made of aluminum.
My first impression was positive. I was particularly excited by the prospect of spending less time reloading and more time focused on hitting my targets, while not breaking the bank.
Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension at my local shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze – perfect conditions for a few rounds of trap. The extension added a noticeable weight to the front of the shotgun, but nothing that felt unwieldy.
The installation was straightforward, and it fed shells into the chamber smoothly. The added capacity was immediately appreciated; it meant less time fiddling with loading and more time focused on the clay targets. I experienced no malfunctions or failures to feed in the first 50 rounds.
There were no immediate issues. The extension performed exactly as advertised, providing a greater ammunition capacity to the shotgun.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds, the Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension continues to perform reliably. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the blued finish, even after regular use and cleaning.
The steel construction seems to be holding up well, showing no signs of bending or warping. I clean the extension every other range trip, applying a light coat of oil to prevent rust. This has kept it in excellent working order.
Compared to a previous aluminum extension I used on a different shotgun, the Choate Tool offering feels significantly more durable and reliable. The steel is inherently stronger than aluminum.
Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension
Specifications
Adds +5 shotshells: Provides a significant increase in ammunition capacity, ideal for both recreational and tactical applications. This reduces the frequency of reloading, providing an advantage in various shooting scenarios.
Machined from steel: Ensures durability and longevity, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use. Steel provides a robust structure that resists bending and damage.
Blued finish: Offers a protective coating that enhances corrosion resistance and provides a sleek, professional appearance. This also helps to blend the extension seamlessly with the shotgun’s original finish.
Manufacturer: Choate Tool. Choate Tool has a long-standing reputation for producing quality aftermarket accessories for firearms.
Country of Origin: USA. Supporting US manufacturing is important to many consumers.
Performance & Functionality
The Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension significantly enhances the shotgun’s functionality. By adding five extra rounds, it allows for extended shooting sessions without constant reloading. The extension’s steel construction ensures reliable feeding and prevents malfunctions.
Its primary strength lies in its simple yet effective design and robust construction. One area for improvement might be offering different finish options to better match specific shotgun models. It meets my expectations for increased capacity and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension features a straightforward design that integrates well with the Franchi Affinity shotgun. The steel construction adds a bit of weight to the front of the gun, which may affect the overall balance for some users.
The installation is easy and requires no specialized tools. There is a minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction ensures excellent durability. The blued finish provides adequate protection against rust and corrosion, but regular cleaning and lubrication are still recommended.
The extension is easy to disassemble for cleaning. Basic gun cleaning solvents and lubricants are all that is needed to keep the extension in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension comes with the necessary spring, follower, and clamp for installation. The clamp is a nice addition, providing extra stability and preventing the extension from shifting during use.
There aren’t specific customization options directly for the extension itself, but aftermarket sling mounts can be attached to the magazine tube. It is compatible with most standard aftermarket shotgun shell followers.
Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension
Pros
- Adds +5 shotshells, greatly increasing capacity.
- Machined from steel for exceptional durability.
- Relatively easy installation.
- Noticeable improvement in reduced reload times at the range.
- Budget-friendly compared to other extensions.
Cons
- The blued finish may not perfectly match all Franchi Affinity models.
- Adds noticeable weight to the front of the shotgun.
Who Should Buy Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension?
The Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension is perfect for shotgun enthusiasts, clay target shooters, and hunters who desire an increased ammunition capacity. It’s also a great option for those seeking a reliable and durable extension without breaking the bank.
Those highly concerned about maintaining the original weight balance of their shotgun might want to explore lighter, albeit often more expensive, options. Someone who only hunts occasionally might not need this.
A sling mount and a higher-visibility follower could be helpful additions.
Conclusion on Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension
The Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension delivers on its promise of increased ammunition capacity and durability. Its steel construction and straightforward design make it a reliable addition to any Franchi Affinity shotgun.
At a price of $38.09, the value proposition is excellent. It provides a significant upgrade in functionality without a huge investment.
I would absolutely recommend the Choate Tool Franchi Affinity Magazine Extension to anyone looking to enhance their shooting experience with their Franchi Affinity. Add rounds, have fun, and get shooting!