First Impressions of Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard
The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard for the Benelli M2 is a serious contender in the aftermarket shotgun accessory world. Strike Industries promises improved ergonomics, enhanced accessory mounting, and a sleek, modern aesthetic. I was intrigued by the promise of a lightweight, durable, and functional upgrade for my trusty Benelli M2.
I’ve been running my Benelli M2 in 3-gun competitions and tactical training for years. The factory handguard, while functional, always felt a bit lacking in terms of grip and accessory mounting options. I needed a handguard that could accommodate a weapon light and a more aggressive grip without adding excessive bulk or weight.
Unboxing the Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard revealed a cleanly machined piece of 6061-T6 aluminum. The hard anodized finish appeared durable and the M-LOK slots were precisely cut. The handguard felt surprisingly light, and the contoured cuts looked like they would provide a comfortable and secure grip.
I considered handguards from companies like Midwest Industries and Mesa Tactical. Ultimately, I chose the Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard due to its sleek design, integrated QD sockets, and aggressive texturing. The price point was also very competitive.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard appeared to be a well-designed and well-executed upgrade. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard at an outdoor shooting range during a 3-gun practice session. The weather was typical for spring: a mix of sunshine and light rain. This provided a good initial test of the grip in varying conditions.
The enhanced grip was immediately noticeable. The aggressive ridges provided excellent purchase even when my hands were wet. The M-LOK slots allowed me to easily mount my Streamlight ProTac HL-X weapon light and a forward sling mount.
Installation was a breeze, and the Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard dropped in perfectly with no modification needed. I experienced no issues with cycling or feeding. The balance of the shotgun felt improved, with the added weight of the light offset by the handguard’s ergonomic design.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard has proven to be incredibly durable. It’s been through several 3-gun matches, tactical training courses, and even a few hunting trips. It’s held up flawlessly.
The anodized finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after being subjected to bumps, scrapes, and exposure to the elements. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes. The M-LOK slots have securely held my accessories without any loosening or shifting.
Compared to the factory handguard, the Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard is a significant improvement in terms of grip, accessory mounting options, and overall durability. It has exceeded my expectations in every way. It’s a truly remarkable upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard
Specifications
The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard is designed specifically for the Benelli M2 shotgun. It is machined from 6061-T6 aluminum with a hard anodized finish.
- Manufacturer: Strike Industries
- Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Finish: Anodized
- Gun Make: Benelli
- Gun Model: Benelli M2
- Handguard Length: 8.64 inches
- Weight: 9 ounces
- Mount Type: M-LOK
- 9 M-LOK rail system slots at 2, 6 and 10 o’clock positions.
- Steel QD socket at rear of handguard at 4 and 8 o’clock positions.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the handguard’s lightweight, durability, and versatility. The aluminum construction provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio. The anodized finish protects against corrosion and wear. The M-LOK slots offer a wide range of accessory mounting options.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard performs exceptionally well in enhancing the functionality of the Benelli M2. It provides a more secure and comfortable grip. It also allows for easy attachment of essential accessories.
The aggressive texturing ensures a positive grip even in wet or gloved conditions. The M-LOK slots provide ample space for mounting lights, lasers, sling mounts, and other accessories. The integrated QD sockets offer convenient sling attachment points.
The only minor weakness is that the handguard can get a little warm during rapid firing. However, this is common with aluminum handguards and has not been a significant issue. Overall, the Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard has exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard boasts a sleek and modern design. The contoured shape and aggressive texturing provide a comfortable and ergonomic grip. The lightweight construction ensures that the handguard does not add excessive bulk or weight to the shotgun.
The installation process is straightforward and requires no gunsmithing. The handguard drops in easily and fits securely. The design also retains access to the front OEM sling plate.
The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard is very user-friendly, even for those with limited experience installing aftermarket accessories. The overall design is well-thought-out and contributes to a positive shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard is built to last. The aluminum construction and anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.
The handguard is easy to maintain. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that is needed to remove dirt, grime, and carbon buildup. The M-LOK slots are also easy to clean.
Based on my experience, I expect the Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard to provide years of reliable service. The build quality is excellent, and the materials are durable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard is compatible with a wide range of M-LOK accessories. This includes weapon lights, lasers, vertical grips, angled foregrips, and sling mounts.
The handguard also features integrated QD sockets. These provide convenient attachment points for slings.
Strike Industries offers a variety of M-LOK accessories that are designed to work seamlessly with the Valor of Action Handguard. However, the handguard is also compatible with M-LOK accessories from other brands. This makes it easy to customize the shotgun to meet individual needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard
Pros
- Enhanced Grip: Aggressive texturing provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or gloved conditions.
- M-LOK Compatibility: Offers a wide range of accessory mounting options for lights, lasers, and other tactical gear.
- Lightweight Design: Machined from aluminum to minimize weight without sacrificing durability.
- Integrated QD Sockets: Provides convenient sling attachment points.
- Easy Installation: Drops in easily with no gunsmithing required.
Cons
- Can get warm during rapid firing.
- The anodized finish can show wear with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard?
The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard is perfect for:
- Competitive Shooters: Enhances grip and provides versatile accessory mounting options for faster and more efficient performance.
- Tactical Shooters: Allows for easy attachment of weapon lights, lasers, and other essential tactical gear.
- Home Defense Enthusiasts: Provides a more secure and ergonomic grip for improved control in high-stress situations.
- Hunters: Offers a stable platform for mounting accessories such as bipods and sling mounts.
Those who should skip this product:
- Those who prefer the classic look and feel of the original Benelli M2 handguard.
- Those who are on a very tight budget.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- A quality weapon light.
- A sling.
- A forward grip or hand stop (optional).
Conclusion on Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard
The Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard is an excellent upgrade for the Benelli M2 shotgun. It enhances grip, provides versatile accessory mounting options, and improves the overall ergonomics of the weapon.
The price of $135.00 is justified by the handguard’s high-quality construction, durable materials, and improved functionality.
I would personally recommend the Strike Industries Valor of Action Handguard to anyone looking to upgrade their Benelli M2. It is a well-designed, well-executed, and highly functional accessory that will enhance the performance and versatility of your shotgun. It’s a purchase you won’t regret. Upgrade your Benelli M2 today!