First Thoughts on the RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount
The shotgun. It’s the quintessential American firearm, versatile and powerful. From breaching doors to putting meat on the table, the 12 gauge shotgun has earned its place in history. But let’s face it, shotguns aren’t always known for their modularity; attaching accessories can be a challenge. Enter the RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount, a simple yet ingenious solution from RS Regulate that aims to modernize this classic platform. This mount promises to bring Picatinny rail real estate to almost any tube-fed 12 gauge, opening up a world of tactical possibilities.
I was particularly drawn to this mount because I wanted to add a weapon light to my trusty Mossberg 500 for home defense. Traditional magazine tube clamps felt clunky and often interfered with cycling. I wanted something streamlined and secure. This looked like it could fit the bill.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount’s robust construction. The hard anodized finish on the 6061-T6 aluminum gave it a serious, no-nonsense feel. It feels lightweight but definitely sturdy. Comparing it to some cheaper, polymer-based barrel mounts, the difference in build quality is immediately apparent. I chose this mount over other options because of RS Regulate’s reputation for quality and precision.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed well-made, but I was eager to see if it would truly live up to the hype and provide a stable platform for my light.
Real-World Testing: Putting RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount was at my local outdoor range. I mounted a Streamlight ProTac Rail Mount 2 to the Picatinny rail and loaded up my Mossberg 500 with a variety of shells, from birdshot to buckshot. I wanted to see if recoil would affect the mount’s stability.
The mount held firm through over 50 rounds. The light remained rock solid, and there was no noticeable shift in point of impact. Installation was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and a basic wrench. I didn’t need to adjust to using it. Everything just worked.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, I’m happy to report that the RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount continues to perform flawlessly. It has seen action in various conditions, from dry summer days at the range to damp, muddy outings in the field during small game season. It stays put under heavy recoil.
The mount shows no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scratches, which is to be expected. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes. Compared to some other mounting solutions I’ve tried, this one has proven to be significantly more durable and reliable. I previously used a magnetic mount, but this provides a much better and more consistent experience.
Breaking Down the Features of RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount
Specifications
- The RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount features a 4 cross slot 1913 Picatinny rail. This allows for the attachment of various accessories such as lights, lasers, and sights.
- It uses self-adjusting clamp arms. These ensure a secure fit on different barrel diameters within the 12 gauge shotgun range.
- The body is constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum. This provides a strong and lightweight platform.
- It is finished with a mil-spec hard anodized coating. This provides corrosion resistance and added durability.
- All hardware is made from stainless steel. This further enhances corrosion resistance and ensures longevity.
These specifications matter because they directly translate to the mount’s performance and longevity. The Picatinny rail allows for versatile accessory attachment, while the self-adjusting clamps ensure a secure and reliable fit. The use of high-quality materials like 6061-T6 aluminum and stainless steel guarantees that the mount can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Performance & Functionality
The RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount excels at its primary job: providing a stable and secure platform for attaching accessories to a 12 gauge shotgun. It performs flawlessly in both range and field settings. It has proven reliable under heavy recoil.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and robustness. The self-adjusting clamp arms make installation a breeze, and the Picatinny rail provides ample space for mounting various accessories. One potential improvement could be adding more rail slots for greater flexibility in accessory placement.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The hard anodized finish gives it a sleek, professional look, and the overall construction feels solid and well-made. The relatively light weight of the mount is a definite plus, as it doesn’t add significant bulk to the shotgun.
The mount is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple installation process that requires no specialized tools. The clamp arms are intuitive and easy to adjust. The design is sleek and the mount does not impact weapon ergonomics negatively.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its high-quality construction and materials, the RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount is built to last. The hard anodized finish and stainless steel hardware provide excellent corrosion resistance, while the 6061-T6 aluminum body is strong and durable. With proper care, this mount should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe-down after use to remove any dirt or debris. The mount does not require any special cleaning products or procedures. It’s a very low maintenance accessory.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount itself doesn’t come with any accessories. Its primary function is to provide a Picatinny rail for attaching other accessories. It is compatible with any accessory that mounts to a standard 1913 Picatinny rail.
This includes weapon lights, lasers, vertical grips, and even some smaller optics. The mount’s universal compatibility makes it a versatile addition to any 12 gauge shotgun setup. I was able to easily mount a Streamlight ProTac and a Magpul angled foregrip.
Pros and Cons of RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount
Pros
- Provides a stable and secure Picatinny rail for attaching accessories.
- Self-adjusting clamp arms for easy installation on various 12 gauge shotguns.
- Durable construction with 6061-T6 aluminum and stainless steel hardware.
- Mil-spec hard anodized finish for corrosion resistance.
- Lightweight design that doesn’t add significant bulk to the shotgun.
Cons
- Limited to 4 cross slots of Picatinny rail.
- Relatively high price compared to some other barrel mount options.
Who Should Buy RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount?
The RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount is perfect for shotgun owners who want to add accessories like weapon lights or lasers but are looking for a more streamlined and secure mounting solution than traditional magazine tube clamps. It is also a great choice for tactical shooters who need a reliable platform for attaching optics or other aiming devices.
This product may not be ideal for those on a tight budget or who only need to mount a single, lightweight accessory. In such cases, a cheaper polymer-based mount might suffice. A must-have accessory for this mount is a quality weapon light, such as a Streamlight ProTac or SureFire Scout Light.
Conclusion on RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount
Overall, the RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount is a well-designed and highly functional product that delivers on its promises. Its robust construction, easy installation, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for any serious shotgun owner. The mount provides a modern touch to a classic firearm.
While the price might be a bit higher than some other options, the quality and durability justify the cost. I would definitely recommend this mount to anyone looking to add accessories to their 12 gauge shotgun without sacrificing reliability or aesthetics. Upgrade your shotgun today with the RS Regulate 12 Gauge Barrel Accessory Mount and experience the difference!
