Let’s Dive into FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring
Shotgun magazine extensions are a common upgrade for tactical shooters and hunters alike, increasing capacity and firepower. But often, the factory springs are the first thing to fail under the increased pressure and cycling demands. That’s where the FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring comes in.
I was experiencing significant feeding issues with my Mossberg 500 after installing a magazine extension. The factory spring just couldn’t keep up, leading to frustrating jams and inconsistent cycling. A more robust spring was essential.
Upon unboxing, the FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring immediately impressed me with its heft and tightly wound coils. The stainless steel construction felt significantly more durable than the factory spring it was replacing. My initial impression was that this was a serious upgrade, built to withstand serious use.
Compared to the factory spring and a generic replacement I tried, the FCW offering felt noticeably stronger. It seemed to compress and rebound with more force. I chose this one specifically for FCW’s reputation for reliable, no-nonsense parts. My excitement was high; I expected this spring to solve my feeding problems and provide a long-lasting upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring was at an outdoor shooting range. I was running a mix of birdshot and buckshot through my Mossberg 500. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect for a thorough test.
The difference in cycling speed and reliability was immediately apparent. The shotgun fed rounds smoothly and consistently, without a single jam or hiccup. I was instantly relieved.
The FCW spring required no break-in period; it performed flawlessly from the start. I was pleasantly surprised by the immediate improvement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring continues to perform admirably. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through my shotgun with this spring installed. There are no signs of wear or degradation in performance.
The spring remains strong and consistent, ensuring reliable feeding every time. Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it clean and corrosion-free.
Compared to my previous experiences with unreliable factory springs, the FCW spring is a night-and-day difference. It has completely eliminated my feeding issues and significantly improved the overall reliability of my shotgun.
Breaking Down the Features of FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring
Specifications
The FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring is a replacement spring designed for FCW magazine tube extensions. It also fits most 12ga and 20ga shotguns. The spring is constructed from stainless steel, ensuring corrosion resistance and long-term durability. It’s designed for a magazine capacity of 5 rounds (with extension) but can be trimmed to fit shorter extensions.
The stainless steel construction is a crucial specification. This ensures the spring can withstand harsh environments and repeated use without losing its strength or corroding. The ability to trim the spring is also vital, allowing users to customize it to their specific extension length and shotgun model.
Performance & Functionality
The FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring performs its job exceptionally well. It provides the necessary tension to ensure consistent and reliable feeding of rounds. This eliminates jams and misfeeds, improving the overall performance of the shotgun.
Its strength and reliability are its key strengths. The only potential weakness is the need for trimming, but this is a minor inconvenience compared to the benefits it provides. It exceeds expectations, delivering consistent performance even under heavy use.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and functional. The stainless steel material feels robust and well-made. The spring’s weight is appropriate, providing the necessary tension without being excessively heavy.
The spring is user-friendly. Installation is simple, and trimming (if necessary) is easily accomplished with basic tools. There is no learning curve involved; it simply replaces the existing spring.
Durability & Maintenance
The FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring is built to last. The stainless steel construction ensures excellent corrosion resistance and durability. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition. Repair is unlikely to be necessary, given its robust construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring itself doesn’t require any accessories. It is designed to work in conjunction with magazine tube extensions from FCW and other brands. It can be trimmed to fit various extension lengths.
It’s compatible with most 12ga and 20ga shotguns, making it a versatile upgrade. Aftermarket followers may also be used with this spring to further enhance feeding reliability.
Pros and Cons of FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring
Pros
- Highly durable stainless steel construction.
- Significantly improved feeding reliability.
- Increased spring tension for consistent cycling.
- Versatile; fits most 12ga and 20ga shotguns.
- Simple installation.
Cons
- May require trimming to length.
- Only compatible with magazine extensions.
Who Should Buy FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring?
The FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring is perfect for tactical shooters, hunters, and anyone who relies on their shotgun for home defense. It is especially beneficial for those using magazine extensions and experiencing feeding issues. It is also great for competitive shooters who need consistent performance under pressure.
Those who are happy with their factory spring and do not use a magazine extension may not need this product. Also, those seeking a drop-in solution without the possibility of trimming may want to look for pre-cut springs (though they may sacrifice some versatility). A must-have modification when installing this spring is ensuring proper lubrication of the magazine tube and follower.
Conclusion on FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring
The FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring is an essential upgrade for anyone running a magazine extension on their shotgun. It delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and durability, addressing common feeding issues and improving overall functionality. At $10.99, the price is more than justified by the significant improvement in reliability.
I wholeheartedly recommend the FCW Extreme Duty SS Mag Extension Spring. If you’re experiencing feeding problems or simply want to ensure your shotgun performs reliably under pressure, this spring is a must-have. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!