The Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer Made a Bold First Impression
The Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer immediately stands out due to its vibrant color and the promise of enhanced functionality. As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless iterations of Remington 870 furniture, but this one piqued my interest for several reasons. I was seeking a forend that offered better grip, improved accessory mounting options, and enhanced visibility in low-light conditions, and this product seemed to tick all those boxes.
For years, I’ve grappled with the limitations of the standard Remington 870 forend. Its slick surface often became problematic in wet or gloved conditions, and the lack of attachment points hampered my ability to mount lights or other essential accessories. I had considered options like the Hogue OverMolded forend or the Mesa Tactical Urbino pistol grip stock system, but ultimately chose the Magpul offering for its M-LOK compatibility and distinctive color. The promise of a drop-in replacement that would modernize my trusted 870 was irresistible.
The forend arrived in Magpul’s signature packaging, simple yet effective. Upon unboxing, the bright orange polymer immediately grabbed my attention; it’s a safety-conscious choice. The weight felt balanced, and the molded texture provided a confident grip. Initial inspection revealed clean lines and no obvious manufacturing flaws, suggesting a quality build.
Compared to the Hogue, which prioritizes a soft, tactile feel, the Magpul feels more robust and duty-oriented. Unlike the Mesa Tactical, which necessitates a full stock replacement, the Magpul forend offered a more straightforward and cost-effective upgrade path. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The color was certainly bold, but the functionality promised to outweigh any aesthetic reservations. I was excited to install it and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer occurred at an outdoor shooting range during a practical shotgun course. The weather was mild, but intermittent rain showers tested the forend’s grip in wet conditions. The enhanced texture provided a noticeable improvement over the stock forend, even with wet gloves.
The extended length and front/rear hand stops proved incredibly useful during rapid cycling drills. The M-LOK slots allowed me to securely mount a tactical light, significantly improving target acquisition in simulated low-light scenarios. I did not experience any malfunctions or fitment issues during the session, which involved firing approximately 200 rounds of varying loads, from birdshot to buckshot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. I’ve used it during multiple hunting trips, range sessions, and even a basic shotgun maintenance course. The forend has held up well to the rigors of constant use, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The polymer has resisted scratches and abrasions effectively. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes dirt, grime, and powder residue. Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket forends, this Magpul offering has significantly outperformed expectations. It provides a sure grip, even after prolonged use in adverse conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer
Specifications
The Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer is a drop-in replacement designed specifically for the Remington 870 12-gauge shotgun. It is constructed from durable, high-strength polymer and features M-LOK compatible slots for accessory attachment. The extended length, combined with integrated front and rear hand stops, enhances weapon manipulation.
The forend does not overlap the receiver, ensuring compatibility with side-saddle shell carriers. It weighs only a few ounces more than the standard forend, adding minimal bulk to the shotgun. These features collectively improve control, customization, and overall handling of the Remington 870.
Performance & Functionality
The Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer excels in improving grip and control during cycling. The aggressive texture and hand stops provide a secure purchase, even with wet or gloved hands. Its M-LOK compatibility allows for the direct attachment of lights, lasers, and other accessories.
One minor drawback is that the color, while highly visible, might not be ideal for all hunting scenarios. However, its superior ergonomics and accessory mounting options far outweigh this cosmetic consideration. It exceeded my expectations by transforming my basic 870 into a more versatile and user-friendly platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both form and function. The textured surface offers a comfortable yet secure grip, while the extended length provides ample space for various hand positions. The M-LOK slots are strategically placed for optimal accessory placement.
The build quality is excellent, with a robust polymer construction that inspires confidence. The ergonomic design requires minimal adjustment; it feels natural and intuitive from the moment you install it.
Durability & Maintenance
The high-strength polymer used in the Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer is designed to withstand years of use and abuse. I’ve subjected it to considerable wear and tear, and it shows no signs of cracking or deformation. Maintenance is incredibly simple.
A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The polymer is resistant to most solvents and cleaning agents, further simplifying the maintenance process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of M-LOK compatible accessories. This includes lights, lasers, vertical grips, and sling mounts. Magpul offers its own line of M-LOK accessories, but the system is also compatible with products from other manufacturers.
While no accessories are included with the forend, the vast array of compatible options allows for significant customization. This versatility makes the forend a highly adaptable platform for various shooting disciplines.
Pros and Cons of Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer
Pros
- Enhanced Grip and Control: The textured surface and hand stops provide a secure and comfortable grip, improving cycling speed and accuracy.
- M-LOK Compatibility: Allows for the direct attachment of a wide range of accessories, increasing the shotgun’s versatility.
- Durable Construction: The high-strength polymer is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: A true drop-in replacement, requiring minimal tools or gunsmithing skills.
- Improved Visibility: The bright orange color enhances visibility in low-light conditions, making it a safer option for home defense or tactical applications.
Cons
- Color may not be ideal for all hunting situations.
- Not compatible with heat shields.
Who Should Buy Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer?
The Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer is perfect for shotgun owners looking to modernize their Remington 870 with improved ergonomics and accessory mounting capabilities. It particularly benefits home defense users seeking enhanced grip and the ability to mount lights or lasers. It’s also great for tactical shooters who need a reliable and customizable platform.
Those who prioritize traditional aesthetics or require a heat shield for heavy use should probably skip this product. Those focused purely on hunting requiring camouflage might prefer darker options. A must-have accessory for this forend is a quality M-LOK compatible weapon light.
Conclusion on Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer
The Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer is a well-designed and highly functional upgrade for the Remington 870 shotgun. At a price of $22.49, the value proposition is undeniable. It offers a significant improvement in grip, control, and accessory mounting options, all while maintaining Magpul’s reputation for durability and reliability.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this forend to anyone looking to enhance their Remington 870’s performance and versatility. If you’re ready to bring your 870 into the 21st century, this is the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. Equip your 870 with the Magpul MOE M-LOK Forend Remington 870 12 Gauge Orange Polymer and experience the difference firsthand.