My Honest Thoughts on the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility
As someone who spends a significant amount of time wrestling with all manner of gear, from intricate lab equipment to the rugged demands of outdoor pursuits, I’ve learned to appreciate components that perform precisely as advertised. My workshop and gear locker are a testament to this; I’m not one for unnecessary ornamentation or features that don’t serve a purpose. When the stock follower in my trusty Remington 870 started showing its age, I began searching for a robust, reliable replacement. That search led me to the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility.
The problem with many stock shotgun followers, especially on older or heavily used firearms, is their tendency to bind or wear down, leading to feeding issues and potential jams – the last thing you want when reliability is paramount. I’d encountered this firsthand during a particularly demanding range day, where a sticky follower caused a frustrating stoppage. I considered a few generic polymer replacements, but I wanted something with a more substantial feel and a design engineered for smoother operation. The promise of precision machining and a “low-drag” profile from Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc caught my attention.
My initial impression upon unboxing this aluminum follower was one of solid craftsmanship. It possesses a satisfying heft and a smooth, almost frictionless surface that immediately suggested a departure from the brittle plastic it was designed to replace. There was a distinct feeling of confidence knowing it was CNC-machined from 7075-T6 aluminum, a material known for its strength and durability. This initial contact offered a sense of relief, knowing I likely wouldn’t be dealing with the same shortcomings as before.
Real-World Testing: Putting Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility to the Test
I chose to integrate this aluminum follower into my everyday Remington 870 Express Tactical shotgun, a platform I frequently use for defensive shotgun training and occasional competition. This environment involves rapid firing drills, multiple reloads under pressure, and a fair amount of field stripping for cleaning and inspection. My testing grounds were primarily my local indoor range and the controlled chaos of my garage workshop.
During initial range sessions, the difference was immediately noticeable. The cycling of rounds from the magazine tube felt remarkably smoother. I deliberately subjected it to rapid-fire sequences, followed by quick tactical reloads, and the follower consistently guided the rounds upwards without any hint of binding. It handled everything from light target loads to heavier buckshot with equal aplomb.
Even after weeks of use, which included approximately 500 rounds cycled through the shotgun, the Phase 5 follower has held up exceptionally well. There are no visible signs of wear, such as deep scratches or deformation, on its bearing surfaces. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a solvent-soaked cloth and a light application of lubricant are all it takes to keep it in pristine condition. Compared to the stock plastic followers I’ve used in the past, which would often show scoring or become slightly sticky with carbon buildup, this aluminum component feels like it’s built to last indefinitely. It requires no special maintenance beyond standard firearm care.
First Use Experience
My first time installing the Phase 5 follower was on my Remington 870. This particular shotgun, like many factory models, features internal retention dimples inside the magazine tube. As noted in the product description, the Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility is designed for tubes without these dimples. I had to carefully file down the two small dimples inside the 870’s magazine tube to allow for proper installation. This was a minor but necessary step, requiring a bit of patience and a small file to ensure a smooth, burr-free finish.
Once installed, the follower slid effortlessly within the tube. The bright red anodized finish, a welcome visual cue, immediately stood out against the dark steel of the magazine tube. This high visibility is a significant benefit for safety checks; you can visually confirm the magazine is empty at a glance.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months, this follower has become a non-issue, which is precisely what you want from a critical firearm component. It has endured numerous cleaning cycles, prolonged periods loaded with shell elevators engaging the follower, and the general grime that can accumulate in a working firearm. Its smooth surface resists carbon fouling remarkably well, requiring less frequent deep cleaning than polymer alternatives.
I’ve also tested it in a friend’s Mossberg 930, which, thankfully, has a dimple-free tube and accepted the follower with zero modification. The performance was identical – a noticeable improvement in the smoothness of feeding. This consistency across different platforms, provided the tube compatibility is met, speaks volumes about the design and manufacturing quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility
Specifications
The Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility is precision machined from a solid bar of 7075-T6 aluminum. This is a significant upgrade from the common 6061-T6 aluminum often found in less robust components, offering approximately 80% greater strength. The follower itself is designed with a reduced bearing surface, significantly less than stock followers, which is the core of its “low-drag” functionality. This reduction in contact points minimizes friction against the magazine tube walls, promoting smoother feeding.
The follower comes in three striking anodized colors: red, blue, and green. Each unit features bright white lettering for increased visibility, further enhancing its safety signaling capabilities. A crucial design element is the center hole, which allows for tactile confirmation that the magazine tube is clear, an important feature for safe handling and clearing procedures. Its compatibility is explicitly stated to fit most factory 12-gauge shotgun magazine and extension tubes, but crucially, only those without spring/follower retention dimples.
Performance & Functionality
In practical terms, the low-drag design translates directly into improved shotgun reliability. The reduced surface area means less resistance as the follower moves up and down the magazine tube. This is particularly beneficial during rapid firing, where the follower needs to move quickly and efficiently to present the next round to the bolt or carrier. I experienced zero instances of the follower binding or hesitating, a common failure point with many stock or lower-quality aftermarket parts.
The bright coloration and white lettering excel as a visual aid. During clearing drills, or simply when checking the firearm’s status, the high visibility of the follower makes it unmistakable that the magazine is empty. The center hole provides an additional tactile check, a subtle but important feature for those who prefer to verify the firearm’s state by touch as well as sight. This attention to safety and operational clarity is a strong point for this product.
Design & Ergonomics
The 7075-T6 aluminum construction lends the follower a substantial, premium feel. It’s rigid and durable, exuding confidence that it won’t fracture or deform under pressure. The anodized finish is smooth and evenly applied, and the white lettering is crisp and legible. There’s no ambiguity in its design; it’s a purpose-built component meant to enhance the function of the shotgun’s magazine system.
The overall design is minimalist and functional, focusing on its core role. The reduced bearing surface, while critical for performance, means that the follower might feel “lighter” or less substantial than a bulky polymer one. However, this is a functional trade-off that enhances reliability, not a design flaw. The ergonomic benefits come from its improved function—smoother feeding and easier verification of a clear magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
The use of 7075-T6 aluminum suggests a very high degree of durability for this follower. This alloy is known for its excellent fatigue strength and resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal material for a component that sees constant movement and potential exposure to debris. I haven’t observed any significant wear or tear after extensive use, and I anticipate this component will outlast the lifespan of many shotguns.
Maintenance is exceptionally simple. Unlike some plastic followers that can develop static cling, attracting dust and carbon, the smooth aluminum surface of this follower resists buildup. A quick wipe-down with a cleaning rag and a very light application of lubricant are all that’s needed to keep it functioning optimally. There are no complex parts to disassemble or maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility is a standalone component, and as such, it does not come with any accessories. However, its primary customization lies in the three color options (red, blue, green) for enhanced visibility. The product’s compatibility with specific magazine tubes is its most crucial “feature” to consider.
It’s important to reiterate that this follower is designed for magazine tubes without internal retention dimples. If your shotgun’s magazine tube has these dimples (common on many factory Remington 870 and some Benelli models), you will need to remove them or replace the magazine tube with a compatible aftermarket one to use this follower. This is a critical point for potential buyers to verify before purchasing.
Pros and Cons of Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility
Pros
- Enhanced Feeding Reliability: The low-drag design significantly reduces friction, leading to smoother cycling of shells and fewer feeding failures, especially under rapid fire.
- Superior Durability: Machined from 7075-T6 aluminum, it’s considerably stronger and more resistant to wear and tear than typical polymer followers.
- Excellent Visibility: Bright red, blue, or green anodizing with white lettering makes it easy to visually confirm a clear magazine tube, enhancing safety.
- Tactile Confirmation: The center hole provides a useful tactile cue to verify the magazine is empty, adding an extra layer of safety.
- Quality Machining: Precision manufacturing results in a high-quality component with tight tolerances and a smooth finish.
Cons
- Magazine Tube Compatibility: Requires the removal of internal retention dimples from the magazine tube, which may involve minor modification or the purchase of a new tube for some shotguns.
- Not Universally Compatible: Specific models like Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Browning BPS/A5, and others are explicitly listed as NOT Compatible, limiting its application.
- Potential for Over-insertion: In some specific shotgun models (as noted by user feedback), the follower might sit slightly higher than a stock part, potentially requiring a tool to push it down fully before closing the bolt.
Who Should Buy Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility?
This follower is an excellent upgrade for owners of compatible 12-gauge shotguns who prioritize enhanced feeding reliability and long-term durability. It’s particularly well-suited for competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, and serious hobbyists who subject their firearms to rigorous use and demand peak performance. Anyone looking for a visible indicator of a clear magazine tube will also find this a valuable feature.
Individuals who are unwilling or unable to modify their existing magazine tubes, or those who own incompatible shotgun models (such as Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Browning BPS/A5, FN SLP, etc.), should look elsewhere. If your shotgun has internal magazine tube retention dimples and you’re not comfortable removing them, this upgrade might not be for you without additional work.
For those with compatible tubes, consider purchasing a spare magazine tube designed for dimple-free operation if you prefer not to modify your existing one. This ensures a straightforward installation and preserves the original magazine tube.
Conclusion on Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility
The Phase 5 Weapon Systems Inc Low-Drag Shotgun Follower 12 Gauge High Visibility delivers precisely what it promises: a smoother, more reliable, and highly visible upgrade over standard shotgun followers. Its robust construction from 7075-T6 aluminum ensures longevity, while the low-drag design demonstrably improves feeding performance. The added safety benefit of high visibility and tactile confirmation is a thoughtful touch that elevates its practical value.
At $19.99, this follower represents outstanding value for its quality and the performance improvement it offers. While the compatibility requirement regarding magazine tube dimples is a crucial consideration, for those whose shotguns meet this criterion, the upgrade is highly recommended. It’s a component that transforms a potential weak point into a reliable asset.
I can confidently recommend this part to anyone looking to enhance the reliability and safety of their compatible 12-gauge shotgun. It’s a small upgrade that makes a significant difference in the overall performance and confidence you can have in your firearm.