Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte Review

First Impressions of the Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte

The Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte promises to significantly boost the capacity of a venerable 20-gauge shotgun. As an experienced gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for upgrades that offer practical advantages without compromising reliability. This specific extension caught my eye because of its stated steel construction and the straightforward claim of adding four shotshells to the magazine. My own 20-gauge scattergun, a reliable workhorse, was feeling a bit light on rounds during longer shooting sessions, prompting the search for an effective capacity upgrade.

Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The matte finish feels robust, and the steel construction lends it a reassuring weight. There were no visible machining burrs or rough edges, which is often a concern with aftermarket firearm components. I briefly considered some polymer-based extensions, but the desire for maximum durability and a consistent material feel with the shotgun’s receiver steered me towards this steel option.

My immediate reaction was a sense of anticipation. This wasn’t just about more shells; it was about enhancing the operational efficiency of a tool I depend on. The straightforward design suggested a user-friendly installation, a welcome relief from some of the more fiddly firearm modifications I’ve encountered.

Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing began at my local gun club’s skeet range, a place where I’ve logged countless hours with various shotguns. The primary scenario involved rapid firing during skeet rounds, where quickly depleting the magazine can disrupt flow. I installed the extension myself, following the included instructions which were indeed easy to understand.

The initial installation was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes. During the first few rounds, I paid close attention to the feeding cycle, ensuring the added shells cycled smoothly into the action. The extension performed admirably, with no hangups or malfunctions attributable to the added capacity. Even when exposed to the occasional dust kicked up from the range floor, it maintained consistent performance.

One minor surprise was the slight shift in the shotgun’s balance. While not a deal-breaker, it’s something a shooter would need to acclimate to over time. This was an expected trade-off for increased capacity, and it didn’t detract from the overall usability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and numerous shooting sessions, the Choate extension has proven its worth. It has become a permanent fixture on my 20-gauge, as the convenience of the increased shotshell capacity far outweighs the minor balance adjustment. Daily tasks, which for me involve regular range visits and occasional field excursions, have been noticeably improved.

Durability has been excellent; there are no visible signs of wear and tear on the steel construction. The matte finish remains intact, and more importantly, the internal feeding mechanism remains smooth. I haven’t encountered any stiffness, cracks, or performance degradation, even after being exposed to varying weather conditions.

Maintenance has been minimal. A simple wipe-down with a cleaning cloth after range sessions is all that’s required. The design of the extension makes it easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning if needed, though thus far, it hasn’t presented any reason for concern. Compared to previous, less robust extensions I’ve used, this Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte offers superior longevity and a more consistent feeding performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte

Specifications

The Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte is constructed from durable steel, a key feature that immediately speaks to its longevity and resilience. It boasts a 9-round magazine capacity, which translates to adding a significant +4 shotshells to the standard capacity. This means a substantial increase in available ammunition for extended shooting activities.

The extension is proudly made in the USA, a mark of quality for many firearm enthusiasts. Crucially, it is machined without the dimples that often plague similar extensions, negating the need for users to drill out these points with a 3/16 drill bit, simplifying installation. It comes as a complete kit, including a replacement spring, a new follower, and a support clamp, ensuring all necessary components for a successful upgrade are provided.

The specifications highlight a focus on robustness and user-friendliness. The steel construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of repeated use and the pressures of firing. The absence of pre-drilled dimples simplifies the installation process considerably, making it accessible even for those less experienced with firearm modifications. The inclusion of a spring, follower, and clamp means the user receives a complete package ready for immediate deployment.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, this extension performs exceptionally well. The Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte reliably feeds an additional four shotshells into the magazine tube. This translates directly into extended shooting sessions without the frequent need for reloading, which is invaluable in dynamic shooting environments.

The strengths of this model lie in its unwavering reliability and the simplicity of its design. Every shell fed from the extension into the chamber has been smooth, with no signs of binding or hesitation. Its primary weakness, if one can call it that, is the subtle shift in firearm balance, which is an inherent consequence of extending the magazine tube forward.

Overall, the performance exceeds expectations, especially given its accessible price point. It delivers exactly what it promises: more shots on tap, with consistent and dependable function.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte is purposefully utilitarian, favoring function over aesthetic flourishes. The matte steel finish provides a non-reflective surface that blends well with most shotgun receivers and is resistant to minor scratches. Its machined steel construction feels solid and dependable in the hand, offering a sense of permanence.

Ergonomically, once installed, the extension is largely unobtrusive. The added length is noticeable, but the design ensures it doesn’t significantly interfere with the shooter’s grip on the forend, assuming standard or slightly extended forends. The clamp mechanism, which secures the extension to the barrel, feels robust and doesn’t introduce any sharp edges or uncomfortable pressure points.

The practical design details, such as the seamless machining and the absence of problematic dimples, contribute to a positive user experience. It’s a component designed to be installed and forgotten, allowing the shooter to focus entirely on the task at hand.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its solid steel construction, the Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte is built for longevity. Under normal use, which for me includes frequent range trips and occasional excursions into less-than-ideal weather, this extension should easily last the lifetime of the shotgun. There are no apparent weak points that would suggest premature failure.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is sufficient to keep the matte finish looking good and prevent any potential rust. The internal components, like the included spring and follower, are also robust and designed for sustained use.

The most significant potential concern, though minor, would be the possibility of a severe impact causing a dent. However, the steel is thick enough that such an event would likely require substantial force. Overall, the durability and ease of maintenance make this a highly practical upgrade.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte comes as a comprehensive kit, providing everything needed for installation. It includes a new magazine spring, a replacement follower, and a barrel clamp. This all-inclusive approach eliminates the need for the user to source separate components.

There are no significant customization options inherent to the extension itself, as its purpose is to fulfill a specific functional role. However, its compatibility with Remington 20-gauge shotguns designed to accept magazine extensions is paramount. It is crucial to note the product description’s caveat regarding older 20-gauge guns potentially made on 12-gauge receivers; ensuring the correct gauge extension is selected is vital for proper fit and function.

The value here lies in the completeness of the package. The included accessories are not mere afterthoughts but are engineered to work in conjunction with the extension for optimal feeding.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte

Who Should Buy Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte?

This extension is an ideal choice for any owner of a compatible Remington 20-gauge shotgun who frequently engages in activities requiring a substantial number of shots. This includes skeet and trap shooters, sporting clays enthusiasts, and individuals using their shotgun for hunting scenarios where rapid follow-up shots or a larger ammunition reserve is beneficial. It’s also a great option for home defense preparedness, offering a greater number of rounds readily available.

Those who should perhaps skip this product are individuals who prioritize an absolutely neutral firearm balance above all else or who have shotguns with very short barrels and forends where the added length might become cumbersome. If your specific shotgun model predates certain manufacturing changes and has a 12-gauge receiver, you will need to seek out a different extension.

For those who do purchase, ensuring you have a solid understanding of your shotgun’s magazine tube length and internal configuration is key. A slightly longer forend might also improve the overall handling ergonomics once the extension is fitted.

Conclusion on Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte

The Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte stands out as a highly effective and well-made upgrade for compatible Remington 20-gauge shotguns. Its steel construction and seamless machining translate into reliable performance and impressive durability. The inclusion of all necessary components and the absence of requiring user drilling make it an accessible modification for a wide range of firearm owners.

At its price point, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. You gain a significant increase in shotshell capacity, enhancing the utility of your shotgun for various shooting disciplines, without breaking the bank. While the alteration in firearm balance is a factor to consider, it’s a trade-off most users will gladly accept for the convenience of having more rounds at the ready.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this extension to any shooter who needs more firepower from their 20-gauge. It’s a practical, robust, and reliable upgrade that genuinely improves the shooting experience. If you own a compatible Remington 20-gauge and find yourself wishing for just a few more shots, this Choate Tool Remington 9 Shot Extension LW 20 Ga Matte is a purchase you won’t regret.