Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit Review

Let’s Dive into Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit

The Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit promises to transform the venerable Remington 870 shotgun into a compact and versatile platform. With its side-folding stock and adjustable length of pull, this kit aims to provide enhanced maneuverability and adaptability for various scenarios. Choate Tool has a reputation for rugged, functional designs, so I was eager to see if this kit lived up to that standard.

As a long-time shooter and gear enthusiast, I was specifically looking for a way to make my home defense shotgun more easily stored and transported. The ability to fold the stock was a huge draw, offering a space-saving solution without sacrificing the 870’s inherent firepower. I was hoping for a kit that was both durable and comfortable to use, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular range trips and potential emergencies.

Upon unboxing the kit, my first impression was one of solid construction. The steel folding mechanism felt robust, and the M4-style stock had a reassuring heft. The forend felt a bit more basic, but overall, the kit seemed well-made and ready to install.

I considered other folding stock options, like those from Mesa Tactical and Magpul. Ultimately, I chose the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit because of its combination of steel construction in the key folding components and the adjustable M4-style stock at a more accessible price point. I was looking for durability and functionality without breaking the bank.

My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about the overall aesthetics. I was hoping the folding mechanism wouldn’t feel clunky or out of place on my 870. However, the promise of improved storage and adaptability outweighed any initial aesthetic reservations.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit installed was primarily focused on testing its functionality and reliability. I spent the day at my local outdoor range, running a variety of shotgun loads, from light target rounds to heavier buckshot and slugs. The weather was relatively mild, with a slight breeze, providing comfortable shooting conditions.

The initial folding action was smooth and positive, locking securely in both the open and folded positions. The adjustable length of pull on the M4 stock proved invaluable, allowing me to quickly customize the fit to my preferred shooting stance. I did find the forend felt a bit slick, especially with heavier loads, and might benefit from some texturing or stippling.

There were no malfunctions or failures during my first outing. I did notice the recoil felt slightly more pronounced with the M4 stock compared to the original stock, likely due to the reduced weight. A good recoil pad would certainly be a welcome addition.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit has proven to be a reliable and functional addition to my 870. I’ve taken it on multiple range trips, used it for several training drills, and even brought it along on a camping trip for potential wildlife defense. The kit has consistently performed as expected, with no significant issues.

Durability has been impressive so far. The steel folding mechanism shows no signs of wear or loosening, and the M4 stock remains solid and wobble-free. The forend has held up well, although I’ve added some skateboard tape for improved grip.

Maintenance has been straightforward. The kit is easy to clean with standard gun cleaning solvents and lubricants. I regularly check the hinge pin for tightness and apply a drop of oil to keep the folding action smooth.

Compared to my previous experience with a standard 870 stock, the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit offers a significant improvement in terms of storage and transport. The folding stock makes it much easier to pack the shotgun in a smaller case or discreetly store it in my vehicle. However, the increased recoil is a noticeable trade-off.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit

Specifications

• The Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit is designed for Remington 870 12-gauge shotguns.
• The kit includes a side-folding stock, a telescoping M4-style buttstock, and a forend.
• The folding housing, hinge, and hinge pin are constructed from steel for durability. This is a critical feature, ensuring the folding mechanism can withstand repeated use and recoil.
• The length of pull is adjustable from 14 to 17 inches, allowing for a customized fit. This adjustability is a major advantage, accommodating different body sizes and shooting preferences.
• The kit weighs approximately 2 pounds 8 ounces, adding some weight to the shotgun. While not the lightest option, the added weight contributes to the overall robustness of the kit.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and usability of the shotgun. The steel construction ensures reliability, while the adjustable length of pull enhances comfort and control. The folding stock provides a compact storage solution, making the shotgun more versatile for various applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit performs its intended function of transforming a standard 870 into a compact and adaptable platform. The folding mechanism is robust and easy to operate, allowing for quick deployment and storage. The adjustable length of pull ensures a comfortable and secure shooting experience.

The primary strength of this kit lies in its durability and functionality. The steel folding mechanism inspires confidence, and the M4-style stock provides a familiar and comfortable interface. The primary weakness is the increased recoil compared to a heavier, fixed stock.

Overall, the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit meets my expectations. It provides a practical solution for improving the storage and transport of my 870 without compromising its reliability or performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit is generally good, with a focus on functionality over aesthetics. The steel folding mechanism is well-made, and the M4-style stock feels solid. The forend is more basic but serves its purpose adequately.

The kit is relatively user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The folding mechanism is intuitive, and the M4 stock is easy to adjust. The installation process is straightforward and can be completed with basic tools.

Durability & Maintenance

The Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit is designed for long-term durability. The steel folding mechanism and robust stock should withstand years of use. With proper care and maintenance, this kit should provide reliable performance for a long time.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication. The hinge pin should be checked periodically for tightness and adjusted as needed. Overall, the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit is designed to be low-maintenance and durable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit does not include any additional accessories beyond the stock, forend, and folding mechanism itself. However, the M4-style stock is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as recoil pads, cheek risers, and sling mounts. This compatibility significantly expands the customization options for the kit.

The forend can also be replaced with aftermarket options, allowing users to add rails for mounting lights, lasers, or other accessories. The ability to customize the stock and forend allows users to tailor the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit?

The Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit is perfect for:

• Home defense enthusiasts looking for a more compact and maneuverable shotgun.
• Hunters or outdoorsmen who need to transport their shotgun in a discreet or space-saving manner.
• Tactical shooters who want to customize their Remington 870 with an M4-style stock.

This product is not ideal for:

• Shooters who are highly sensitive to recoil.
• Those prioritizing aesthetics over functionality.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• A good recoil pad to mitigate the increased felt recoil.
• Skateboard tape or stippling on the forend for improved grip.
• A sling for convenient carrying.

Conclusion on Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit

The Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit is a solid and functional upgrade for the Remington 870 shotgun. Its robust steel folding mechanism, adjustable length of pull, and compact design make it a versatile choice for home defense, hunting, and tactical applications. While the increased recoil and basic forend may be drawbacks for some, the overall benefits outweigh the negatives.

The price is justified for the level of durability and functionality offered. The steel construction and M4-style stock provide a significant upgrade over cheaper, less robust options. For those looking to improve the storage, transport, and adaptability of their 870, the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit is a worthwhile investment.

I would personally recommend the Choate Tool Remington 12 Ga M-4 Folding Kit to anyone seeking a reliable and functional folding stock for their Remington 870. It provides a significant improvement in terms of storage, transport, and adaptability. Upgrade your 870 today and experience the difference!