First Impressions of Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta
The Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta promises to breathe new life into the already impressive Beretta 1301 platform. Midwest Industries is known for its robust, well-engineered AR accessories, and the prospect of that expertise applied to a shotgun stock is genuinely exciting. This stock boasts features like an integrated buffer, adjustable cheek piece, and multiple QD sling sockets, hinting at a significant upgrade over the factory stock.
I’d been searching for a way to improve the ergonomics and recoil management of my Beretta 1301. The factory stock, while functional, lacked adjustability and didn’t quite fit my shooting style. I was looking for a stock that could provide a more consistent cheek weld and better recoil absorption.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the solid feel of the Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta. The aluminum construction felt robust and the anodized finish was impeccable, while the polymer cheek piece seemed durable and well-integrated. The weight felt substantial, promising stability without being overly cumbersome.
I considered options from Magpul and Mesa Tactical, but the Midwest Industries stock’s integrated buffer and adjustable cheek piece ultimately swayed me. The promise of factory length-of-pull with the option for spacers was another key factor. I chose this stock because it appeared to offer a balanced approach of adjustability, recoil mitigation, and streamlined design.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The stock looked and felt high-quality, but the true test would be how it performed in the field. I was both eager and slightly apprehensive to see if the Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta at my local shooting range during a shotgun training day. The weather was typical for late spring: overcast with intermittent light rain. I primarily focused on drills involving rapid target acquisition and transitions.
The stock performed admirably, providing a noticeable improvement in recoil management compared to the factory stock. The adjustable cheek piece allowed me to achieve a consistent and comfortable cheek weld with both iron sights and a red dot optic. There were no initial issues during that first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. I’ve used it in multiple shotgun competitions, training courses, and even during a pest control situation on a friend’s farm. The stock has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The anodized finish has resisted scratches and scuffs, and the polymer cheek piece remains secure. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is all it takes. This stock significantly outperforms the factory stock in terms of ergonomics, recoil management, and overall comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta is specifically designed for the Beretta 1301 shotgun, including the Mod 2 variant. It features a hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum stock beam and grip, providing a durable and lightweight foundation. The adjustable cheek piece is made from a durable polymer, offering a comfortable and customizable interface for the shooter.
The stock weighs in at 1 lb 11 oz, adding minimal weight to the shotgun while providing enhanced stability. It maintains the factory length of pull, but spacer plates are available separately for users who prefer a longer length. The stock is finished in black and proudly made in the USA.
These specifications translate to a stock that is both robust and user-friendly, enhancing the Beretta 1301’s performance and adaptability. The aluminum construction ensures durability, while the adjustable cheek piece caters to individual shooter preferences. The integrated buffer is an especially important component, helping to tame the recoil of the powerful 12 gauge platform.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta excels in its primary function: improving the ergonomics and recoil management of the Beretta 1301. The adjustable cheek piece allows for a customizable fit, promoting a consistent cheek weld and enhanced accuracy. The integrated buffer noticeably reduces felt recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and reduced shooter fatigue.
The stock’s strength lies in its ability to transform the Beretta 1301 into a more comfortable and controllable platform. The only slight area for improvement would be the butt pad, which while effective, could be slightly more aggressive in its texture for extremely wet conditions. The Midwest Industries stock certainly meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The aluminum stock beam and grip provide a solid and stable platform, while the polymer cheek piece offers a comfortable and adjustable interface. The stock feels well-balanced and comfortable in hand, even during extended shooting sessions.
The ergonomics are excellent, with the adjustable cheek piece and thoughtfully placed sling attachment points contributing to a positive shooting experience. There is no significant learning curve; the stock is intuitive to install and adjust. The ergonomic grip panels are also a nice touch, providing ample texture even in wet or snowy conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta is built to last. The combination of hard coat anodized aluminum and durable polymer ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use in various environments. With proper care, this stock should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a simple cleaning after each use. The stock is easy to disassemble for more thorough cleaning if needed. Its robust design and simple maintenance procedures make it a reliable choice for serious shooters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta features several built-in accessories, including multiple anti-rotation QD swivel sockets and a standard sling swivel location. M-LOK compatible slots on either side of the stock allow for the attachment of accessories like the Midwest Industries Universal Shell Holders or other M-LOK compatible panels. The adjustable cheek piece allows for customization based on the optic being used.
The stock is compatible with aftermarket spacer plates to adjust the length of pull. While the stock is specifically designed for the Beretta 1301, the M-LOK compatibility means it can accommodate a wide range of universal accessories from various brands. The number of mounting options is impressive, giving the user plenty of versatility.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta
Pros
- Enhanced Recoil Management: The integrated buffer significantly reduces felt recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy.
- Adjustable Cheek Piece: The polymer cheek piece provides adjustability for use with iron sights, red dots, or magnified optics, ensuring a comfortable and consistent cheek weld.
- Durable Construction: The hard coat anodized 6061 aluminum and durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance in demanding conditions.
- Versatile Sling Attachment Points: Multiple anti-rotation QD swivel sockets and a standard sling swivel location offer flexible sling placement options.
- M-LOK Compatibility: M-LOK compatible slots allow for the attachment of accessories like shell holders or other M-LOK panels, adding to the stock’s versatility.
Cons
- Butt Pad Could Be More Aggressive: The butt pad, while effective, could benefit from a more aggressive texture for improved grip in extremely wet conditions.
- Price: At $299.95, the Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta is a significant investment, potentially placing it out of reach for budget-conscious shooters.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta?
The Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta is perfect for:
- Competitive shotgun shooters seeking improved recoil management and ergonomics.
- Tactical shooters and law enforcement professionals who require a durable and adaptable stock for their Beretta 1301.
- Hunters who want a comfortable and adjustable stock for improved accuracy in the field.
This product might not be the best choice for:
- Shooters on a tight budget who are satisfied with the factory stock’s performance.
- Individuals who prioritize lightweight over recoil reduction and adjustability.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- Midwest Industries Universal Shell Holders for convenient shell storage.
- Aftermarket spacer plates for adjusting the length of pull to individual preferences.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta
The Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta is a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed upgrade for the Beretta 1301 platform. Its adjustable cheek piece, integrated buffer, and durable construction provide a significant improvement in ergonomics, recoil management, and overall shooting experience. While the price point is relatively high, the enhanced performance and versatility justify the investment for serious shooters.
The value proposition is strong, as the stock transforms the Beretta 1301 into a more comfortable, controllable, and adaptable platform. I would absolutely recommend the Midwest Industries Shotgun Stock for Beretta to anyone looking to enhance the performance of their Beretta 1301. Upgrade your Beretta 1301 today and experience the difference!