Let’s Dive into FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun
The FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun promises to modernize the venerable Benelli M4 with a versatile platform for mounting accessories. This upgrade aims to transform the shotgun into a truly adaptable tactical tool.
My need for this product stemmed from wanting to modernize my trusty Benelli M4. I wanted to add a weapon light and potentially a foregrip for enhanced control, but the stock handguard limited my options.
Upon unboxing, the polymer material felt robust yet lightweight, a promising start. The quad rail design looked aggressive and functional.
Compared to similar aluminum quad rails, the FAB Defense offering stood out due to its polymer construction, promising better thermal insulation and a lower overall weight, potentially enhancing maneuverability. I picked it for these benefits over heavier, pricier metal options. Initial impressions were optimistic, although the user reviews about fitment issues gave me pause.
Real-World Testing: Putting FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range. I wanted to assess the FAB Defense handguards’ impact on handling and accessory mounting.
The polymer offered decent thermal insulation during rapid firing strings, a noticeable improvement over bare metal. Mounting a weapon light was straightforward, adding minimal weight and bulk. After a few magazines, I did notice some slight shifting of the handguard despite the screws being tightened.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips spanning a few months, the durability of the FAB Defense handguards is a mixed bag. The polymer shows minimal cosmetic wear, but the fitment issues I read about online became apparent.
Repeated firing caused the handguard to loosen further, requiring frequent tightening. Cleaning was simple, as the polymer resisted fouling and wiped down easily. Compared to my experience with other aftermarket shotgun parts, the FAB Defense offering felt somewhat less robust and reliable.
Breaking Down the Features of FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun
Specifications
The FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun is constructed from a reinforced polymer composite. It features four Picatinny rails for accessory mounting, providing a significant upgrade to the Benelli M4’s modularity.
The handguards weigh in at 0.741 lbs (336 g), adding minimal weight to the shotgun. With a length of 7.87 inches (200 mm), a height of 3.39 inches (86 mm), and a width of 2.56 inches (65 mm), it adds significant real estate without excessive bulk. These specifications are important because they dictate the handguard’s balance, accessory capacity, and potential impact on handling.
Performance & Functionality
The FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun enhances the Benelli M4’s functionality by providing ample space for accessories. The addition of rails allowed for the mounting of a weapon light, foregrip, and even a red dot sight (mounted on the top rail).
However, the handguard’s loosening issue hampered its overall performance, requiring constant adjustments and potentially affecting zero retention of mounted optics. The design is ergonomic enough, though the rails’ sharp edges could become uncomfortable during extended use without rail covers. While the thermal insulation is a plus, the fitment and loosening issues significantly detract from the product’s potential.
Design & Ergonomics
The FAB Defense handguard’s polymer construction keeps the weight down and offers decent thermal protection. The quad rail design provides ample mounting options, albeit at the cost of a slightly bulkier profile.
The handguard is reasonably user-friendly, with a straightforward installation process (theoretically). However, the fitment issues introduce a significant learning curve, often requiring modification.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction seems durable enough to withstand normal use and recoil. The finish resists scratching and wear reasonably well.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The loosening issue, however, raises concerns about the handguard’s long-term durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun is designed to work with any Picatinny rail-mounted accessory. This allows for extensive customization with lights, lasers, foregrips, and optics.
The handguard is compatible with most standard Benelli M4 magazine tubes, though some users have reported fitment issues requiring modification. Some users have replaced the factory screws with higher quality ones in an attempt to resolve the loosening issues.
Pros and Cons of FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 ShotgunPros
- Offers four Picatinny rails for versatile accessory mounting.
- Lightweight polymer construction improves thermal insulation.
- Relatively affordable compared to aluminum quad rail options.
- Easy to clean and maintain due to polymer material.
- Significantly enhances the Benelli M4’s modularity.
Cons
- Fitment issues frequently reported, often requiring modification.
- Prone to loosening during use, requiring frequent tightening.
- Sharp edges on rails can be uncomfortable without rail covers.
Who Should Buy FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun?
Pros
- Offers four Picatinny rails for versatile accessory mounting.
- Lightweight polymer construction improves thermal insulation.
- Relatively affordable compared to aluminum quad rail options.
- Easy to clean and maintain due to polymer material.
- Significantly enhances the Benelli M4’s modularity.
Cons
- Fitment issues frequently reported, often requiring modification.
- Prone to loosening during use, requiring frequent tightening.
- Sharp edges on rails can be uncomfortable without rail covers.
The FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun is perfect for Benelli M4 owners on a budget who are comfortable with minor modifications. It is suitable for those seeking to add accessories to their shotgun without significantly increasing weight.
Those seeking a drop-in, no-hassle upgrade or those unwilling to perform modifications should skip this product. A must-have accessory would be rail covers to improve grip comfort and potentially thread locker to help prevent loosening.
Conclusion on FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun
The FAB Defense Black Polymer Quad Rail Handguards for Benelli M4 Shotgun offers an affordable entry point into modernizing your Benelli M4. The promise of increased modularity and thermal insulation is appealing.
However, the recurring fitment and loosening issues significantly detract from its value. The price is justified if you’re willing to invest time and effort in modifications, but a higher-quality, drop-in solution might be a better investment for some.
I would cautiously recommend it with the strong caveat of potential fitment issues and the need for modifications. If you are looking to modernize your Benelli M4 and are willing to tinker, give it a try, otherwise, explore other options.