Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870 Review

Let’s Review the Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870

The world of firearm accessories is a vast ocean, and for a Remington 870 owner looking to upgrade, the choices can feel overwhelming. I recently found myself in that exact position, searching for a way to modernize my trusted scattergun and enhance its modularity. My old, utilitarian forend was functional but offered zero in terms of customization. This led me to the Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870, a piece promising improved handling and expanded accessory options. Upon initial inspection, the handguard presented a clean, tactical aesthetic, constructed from what felt like robust 6061 aluminum with a pleasing semi-matte finish. It immediately struck me as a significant upgrade from the standard polymer or wood furniture I was accustomed to. While I briefly considered other aftermarket options, their often-clunky designs or limited attachment points steered me back towards Strike Industries. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, a feeling that this upgrade might finally bring my 870 into the 21st century.

Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds for this handguard were primarily the familiar confines of my home workshop and, more importantly, the local shooting range. I opted for a scenario that mirrored common usage for a versatile shotgun: prepping for a day of shooting drills. The installation itself was straightforward, a testament to good engineering, allowing me to quickly mount the unit onto my Remington 870. During initial handling and dry firing, the enhanced length felt immediately beneficial, providing a more comfortable and secure grip for my pump action. I tested it under typical range conditions, including a brisk session where dust and range debris were present, and while there was no direct exposure to significant moisture, the environment was certainly not sterile. The ergonomics felt surprisingly natural; the contoured cuts and semi-matte finish offered a significant improvement in grip security over the slicker factory forend. There were no immediate surprises or quirks, which, for a drop-in part, is always a welcome sign.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and numerous range visits, the Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard has proven its mettle. It’s become a permanent fixture on my Remington 870, seeing consistent use during various shooting activities, from defensive drills to simple target practice. The 6061 aluminum construction has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of stress, cracking, or significant wear despite being handled frequently and having accessories attached and removed. Its durability seems well-suited for the rigors of field use, should the occasion arise. Maintenance has been a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth is all it needs to keep the finish looking pristine and the M-LOK slots clear of debris. Compared to some budget-friendly plastic forends I’ve used on other shotguns in the past, this Strike Industries handguard feels leagues ahead in terms of both build quality and long-term reliability. It has certainly outperformed my initial expectations for an aftermarket upgrade at this price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870

Specifications

The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870 is primarily constructed from 6061 aluminum, a material choice that speaks volumes about its intended durability and rigidity. This robust build ensures it can withstand the operational stresses of a firearm without flexing or degrading. It’s specifically designed for Remington Model 870 12 Gauge shotguns, ensuring a precise fit. The key feature is its M-LOK rail system, boasting 10 M-LOK slots that provide ample real estate for a wide array of accessories. The enhanced length is another crucial specification, extending further forward than standard forends to facilitate easier and more fluid pump action, particularly for shooters of varying statures. The handguard is engineered not to overlap the receiver, which is a critical design consideration for maintaining compatibility with popular accessories like sidesaddles.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its core function – improving weapon handling and providing a stable platform for accessories – this handguard excels. The enhanced length genuinely makes cycling the action smoother and more intuitive, reducing the likelihood of short-stroking during rapid fire. The 10 M-LOK slots offer tremendous versatility; I was able to easily attach a tactical flashlight and a small vertical grip, both of which felt incredibly secure and were precisely positioned for optimal ergonomics. Its primary job of allowing accessory attachment is performed flawlessly, and the enhanced grip due to the contoured design significantly boosts confidence in weapon control. While it doesn’t inherently improve the shotgun’s accuracy, it certainly makes managing the platform more comfortable, which indirectly contributes to better shot placement. The durable 6061 aluminum construction means it’s built to last, performing its functions reliably over time.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The hard anodized 6061 aluminum offers a premium feel, and the semi-matte finish resists fingerprints and glare effectively. The contoured cuts are not just for show; they provide excellent tactile purchase, making it easy to maintain a firm grip even with gloves or slightly damp hands. The ergonomic design prioritizes user comfort and control, which is paramount for a pump-action shotgun. One of the standout design choices is that it does not overlap the receiver, a detail that significantly impacts accessory compatibility, especially for sidesaddle shell carriers. This thoughtful design means you gain significant modularity without sacrificing the ability to use other common shotgun accessories.

Durability & Maintenance

The 6061 aluminum build promises excellent long-term durability. I haven’t experienced any issues like cracking, deformation, or excessive scratching, even with regular use in a workshop environment where tools and parts are frequently moved around. The hard anodized finish appears to be very abrasion-resistant, maintaining its appearance. Maintenance is remarkably simple; a damp cloth is usually sufficient to wipe away dust and grime. The M-LOK slots are precisely machined, ensuring accessories mount securely and stay put. There are no obvious weak points in the design that would suggest premature failure. For a part designed to withstand the recoil and handling of a 12-gauge shotgun, its robust construction implies a long service life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary customization benefit of this handguard comes from its 10 M-LOK slots. This allows for a vast array of aftermarket accessories to be mounted, transforming a standard Remington 870 into a highly adaptable platform. I successfully mounted a streamlight tactical flashlight and a Magpul M-LOK AFG (Angled Fore Grip), both of which attached quickly and securely. Strike Industries itself offers various M-LOK accessories, but the universality of the M-LOK standard means compatibility with accessories from numerous other manufacturers is virtually guaranteed. While no specific accessories are included in the package beyond the handguard itself, the real value lies in the maximized customization potential it unlocks. The ability to add lights, lasers, grips, and other aids is the core appeal of this model.

Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870

Who Should Buy Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870?

This handguard is ideal for the Remington 870 owner who wants to modernize their firearm and significantly enhance its modularity. If you’re looking to add lights, lasers, vertical grips, or other tactical accessories, this is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for home defense setups, competition shooters, or anyone who values improved weapon handling and customization options. Users who find their standard Remington 870 forend a bit short or slick will greatly appreciate the ergonomic improvements and extended length.

Those who only require a basic, utilitarian shotgun for occasional use and have no plans for accessory integration might find it to be overkill. For such users, a simpler, less expensive forend might suffice. I’d strongly recommend pairing this handguard with M-LOK compatible lights, lasers, and possibly a vertical grip or hand stop to fully leverage its capabilities. A good quality sidesaddle shell carrier is also a very popular and practical addition that remains compatible thanks to the non-overlapping design.

Conclusion on Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870

The Strike Industries Valor of Action 10 M-Lok Handguard for Remington 870 is a well-executed upgrade that delivers on its promises of enhanced handling and superior customization. Its construction feels solid, the ergonomics are a clear improvement over standard offerings, and the 10 M-LOK slots provide immense flexibility for accessorizing. For its price of $104.95, the value proposition is strong, offering premium features and durability that often come at a higher cost. I would absolutely recommend this handguard to any Remington 870 owner looking to build a more capable and personalized firearm. It’s a smart investment that transforms a classic platform into a modern, adaptable tool.