The Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve witnessed the evolution of tactical gear, from the rudimentary setups of yesteryear to the highly modular systems we see today. Shotguns, especially, have benefited from this evolution, but often lacked a comfortable and secure forward grip option. That’s where the Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA stepped in, promising to bridge that gap between modularity and ergonomics.
I needed a reliable handstop for my Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA. I was looking for something that would provide a secure grip, enhance control during rapid firing, and not break the bank. This handstop immediately caught my eye with its promise of durability and compatibility, something often missing in the crowded aftermarket space.
The initial impression was positive. The Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The polymer base felt robust, and the rubber coating on the handle offered a tactile grip, suggesting a comfortable and secure shooting experience.
I had considered a few other options, primarily generic aluminum handstops and some fancier, more expensive, models from well-known brands. However, I opted for this one due to its advertised compatibility with my Cobra 12GA and the promise of a comfortable rubberized grip at a price that didn’t sting. Aluminum can get slick, and the price of high-end options was prohibitive for a simple handstop.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The price was certainly appealing, but the true test would be how it performs under the pressures of repeated use and the recoil of a 12-gauge shotgun.
Real-World Testing: Putting Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA at my local shooting range. The primary focus was to evaluate how well it helped manage recoil and enhance control during rapid firing of my Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA.
Initially, the handstop performed admirably. The rubber coating provided a surprisingly secure grip, even with sweaty hands. The positioning of the handstop on the Picatinny rail allowed for a more aggressive and controlled forward grip, which noticeably reduced muzzle climb during rapid firing.
However, after about 50 rounds, I noticed some slight shifting of the handstop on the rail. Despite tightening the mounting screw adequately, the recoil of the 12GA seemed to gradually loosen its grip. This required me to pause and re-tighten the screw, a minor inconvenience, but a point of concern nonetheless.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular range trips and drills, the Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA has held up reasonably well. There are some visible signs of wear on the rubber coating, particularly where my fingers make the most contact.
The polymer base, however, remains structurally sound. The loosening issue I initially encountered persists, but I’ve learned to mitigate it by applying a small amount of thread locker to the mounting screw.
Maintaining the handstop is relatively straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to some aluminum handstops I’ve used in the past, this one seems to require less frequent cleaning and maintenance. It doesn’t corrode like some cheaper aluminum alternatives.
Overall, the Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA performs as expected, though not exceptionally. It offers a decent level of control and comfort, but the occasional loosening issue detracts from the overall experience. It’s certainly better than nothing, but it doesn’t outperform more expensive, high-quality handstops.
Breaking Down the Features of Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA
Specifications
The Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA is designed specifically for shotguns, particularly Turkish-made 12GA models like the Emperor Arms Cobra. The base is constructed from a durable polymer material, while the handle features a rubber coating for enhanced grip.
It attaches to any standard Picatinny rail and is designed to provide a forward point of contact for the support hand. The compact size and lightweight design keep the overall weight of the shotgun to a minimum.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring compatibility with a wide range of shotguns and provide a comfortable and secure grip without adding unnecessary bulk or weight. The polymer base offers a good balance between strength and weight, while the rubber coating is essential for maintaining a solid grip, especially in wet or demanding conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA is to improve control and reduce muzzle climb during rapid firing. For the most part, it achieves this goal.
The rubber coating provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for better control of the shotgun. The ergonomic design of the handle fits comfortably in the hand, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
However, as previously mentioned, the loosening issue is a significant weakness. The mounting screw tends to loosen under heavy recoil, requiring frequent re-tightening. While this can be mitigated with thread locker, it’s still a design flaw that should be addressed. It meets basic expectations but falls short of providing the rock-solid reliability one would ideally want.
Design & Ergonomics
The Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA features a simple yet functional design. The polymer base is lightweight and durable, while the rubber coating provides a comfortable and tactile grip.
The overall build quality is decent for the price point, though not exceptional. The materials used feel reasonably durable, but there are some minor imperfections in the finish.
There’s virtually no learning curve. The design is intuitive, and installation is straightforward. The handstop fits comfortably in the hand, and the rubber coating provides a secure grip without being overly aggressive.
Durability & Maintenance
The lifespan of the Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA depends heavily on the frequency and intensity of use. With regular use, the rubber coating will likely show signs of wear and tear within a year or two.
However, the polymer base should last much longer. Maintenance is simple and requires only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Repairing it is unlikely to be worthwhile; replacement is the more practical option should any significant damage occur.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Its primary function is to serve as a standalone handstop.
There are no specific customization options available directly for this product. However, it is compatible with any shotgun that features a standard Picatinny rail, allowing it to be paired with a wide range of other accessories, such as lights, lasers, and vertical grips.
Pros and Cons of Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA
Pros
- Affordable price point: It’s a budget-friendly option for those looking to enhance their shotgun’s control without breaking the bank.
- Comfortable rubberized grip: The rubber coating provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Lightweight design: It adds minimal weight to the shotgun, preserving maneuverability.
- Easy installation: The handstop can be easily installed on any standard Picatinny rail without the need for special tools.
- Improved control: It provides a forward point of contact for the support hand, enhancing control and reducing muzzle climb.
Cons
- Loosening issue: The mounting screw tends to loosen under heavy recoil, requiring frequent re-tightening.
- Durability concerns: The rubber coating may show signs of wear and tear relatively quickly with regular use.
Who Should Buy Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA?
The Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking to improve the handling of their Turkish-made 12GA shotguns, especially those who primarily engage in recreational shooting or home defense. It’s also a good option for those new to tactical shotguns who want to experiment with different grip styles without making a significant investment.
Those who should skip this product include competitive shooters or professionals who demand absolute reliability and durability from their equipment. They should invest in a higher-quality handstop made from more robust materials with a more secure mounting system.
A must-have accessory is thread locker, to combat the loosening issue. Consider also a quality Picatinny rail section if the shotgun’s existing rail is of low quality.
Conclusion on Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA
The Picatinny Handstop with Durable Polymer Base – Polymer Handle & Rubber Coating Compatible with Emperor Arms Cobra 12GA is a decent, albeit flawed, addition to the tactical shotgun market. It offers an affordable and comfortable way to improve control and reduce muzzle climb, but its tendency to loosen under heavy recoil is a significant drawback.
The price is justified for what you get, a functional handstop that gets the job done adequately. However, if you prioritize ultimate reliability and durability, you’re better off investing in a more expensive, higher-quality alternative.
I would cautiously recommend it to casual shooters on a budget, but with the caveat that they should be prepared to apply thread locker and periodically re-tighten the mounting screw. If you are one of these shooters, this handstop can be an acceptable and economic upgrade to your tactical shotgun.