Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension Review

What Happened When I Tried the Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension

For any shotgun owner, especially those who find themselves in situations demanding sustained firepower, the prospect of increasing magazine capacity is always appealing. My Benelli Nova, a workhorse I’ve relied on for various tasks, was no exception. I stumbled upon the Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension when I was looking for a simple, reliable way to add a couple more rounds to my shotgun’s capacity. This particular extension promised to deliver that boost by integrating seamlessly with the existing magazine tube, constructed from solid blued steel.

The catalyst for this upgrade wasn’t a sudden tactical revelation, but a more practical need that emerged during a series of extended clay shooting sessions. I noticed I was frequently reaching for spare magazines, breaking my rhythm and the flow of the practice. While not a life-or-death scenario, the inefficiency was noticeable and detracted from the overall enjoyment and training value. I considered a few other options, including some polymer-based extensions that looked modern, but the classic appeal and reputation of steel construction from Choate Tool won out. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; it felt robust and well-made, instilling a sense of confidence before even fitting it. The overall feeling was one of practical utility and a welcome upgrade.

Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds were straightforward: the shooting range. I wanted to see how this magazine extension handled both installation and subsequent firing under controlled conditions. The installation itself was surprisingly intuitive. The included spring, base clamp, and follower fit together with the existing Benelli Nova magazine tube without any fuss or need for specialized tools beyond what was provided or commonly found in a basic gun cleaning kit.

Once installed, the true test began with live fire. I loaded the magazine to its extended capacity and cycled through several magazines worth of shells. The extension performed flawlessly; rounds fed smoothly into the chamber, and I didn’t experience any of the hangups or feeding failures that can sometimes plague aftermarket magazine enhancements. The conditions were ideal—a dry, clear day—so I can’t speak to its performance in adverse weather or extreme temperatures yet, but the initial results were promising. The ease of use was remarkable; it felt like a natural extension of the firearm from the very first shot.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks turned into a couple of months, and the Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension became a permanent fixture on my Benelli Nova. It has seen use not just at the range, but also during some informal trap and skeet events where the extra capacity proved genuinely beneficial. The solid blued steel construction has held up exceptionally well; there are no visible scratches, rust, or signs of structural compromise, despite being handled frequently and exposed to the usual bumps and scrapes that come with transporting firearms.

Maintenance has been minimal, which is a testament to its robust design. A simple wipe-down with a cleaning cloth after a range day is all it has needed. Compared to some polymer extensions I’ve seen that can flex or crack under stress, this steel unit feels incredibly durable. It has certainly outperformed budget alternatives that sometimes struggle with consistent feeding or proper fitment. The reliability it has offered throughout this extended period is exactly what I look for in any firearm accessory, especially one that directly impacts its functionality.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension

Specifications

The Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension is designed to enhance the Benelli Nova shotgun, specifically for the 20-gauge model. Its primary function is to increase the firearm’s capacity by 2 rounds, providing that crucial extra firepower when needed. The construction is a significant selling point: it’s made from solid blued steel, which contributes to its durability and traditional aesthetic.

Included in the kit are the necessary components for installation: a new spring, a base clamp, and a follower. These parts are crucial for ensuring proper function and reliable feeding of the additional shells. The overall build quality suggests it’s designed for longevity and hard use. Compared to some lighter polymer options, the steel construction offers a more substantial feel, though it does add a small amount of weight to the overall firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of the Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension is to reliably hold and feed two extra shells, and it accomplishes this task with impressive efficacy. My testing consistently showed smooth feeding from the added capacity into the action, without any noticeable increase in cycling effort required from the shotgun itself. The extension integrates so well that it feels like a factory-installed component, which is the highest praise I can give to an aftermarket part.

The main strength lies in its unwavering reliability and the immediate increase in magazine capacity. It directly addresses the need for more shots without sacrificing the core function of the shotgun. While there are no inherent weaknesses in its primary function, the added capacity is specific; it won’t magically improve handling or recoil management beyond what the Benelli Nova already offers. It simply delivers on its promise of two additional rounds, meeting and exceeding expectations for its intended purpose and price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension is straightforward and utilitarian, prioritizing function over flashy aesthetics. The use of solid blued steel gives it a classic, robust appearance that complements the Benelli Nova’s design. The finish is a deep, even blue that resists minor scuffs and looks the part of a durable firearm accessory.

Ergonomically, the extension is virtually unnoticeable in hand once installed, as it fits flush with the existing magazine tube’s profile. There is no added bulk that impedes handling or aiming. The base clamp is designed to provide a secure attachment point without creating sharp edges or discomfort during manipulation of the shotgun. The overall construction feels solid and well-machined, indicating good manufacturing standards.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its solid blued steel construction, the durability of this magazine extension is expected to be very high. After several months of use, there are no signs of wear, corrosion, or structural compromise. It feels like a component designed to last the lifetime of the shotgun itself, assuming proper care.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. It requires no specialized cleaning or lubrication beyond what is typical for the firearm’s magazine tube. A quick wipe with a silicone cloth is usually sufficient to keep the blued finish in good condition. There are no apparent failure points; the single-piece steel construction is inherently strong. Potential concerns might arise from harsh impacts that could potentially mar the blued finish, but this is a minor aesthetic issue rather than a functional one.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension kit comes complete with everything necessary for installation: the extension tube, a specifically designed spring, a base clamp, and a follower. This means it is a self-contained solution, and no additional accessories are strictly required for its intended function.

In terms of customization, this extension is quite specific to the Benelli Nova. It’s not designed for modularity in the way some firearm components are. However, the solid blued steel construction means it offers a consistent look and feel. For those seeking aesthetic customization, the blued finish is a classic choice, and it integrates seamlessly without altering the firearm’s fundamental ergonomics.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension

Who Should Buy Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension?

This Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension is an excellent choice for any owner of a Benelli Nova 20-gauge shotgun who seeks to increase their firearm’s ammunition capacity without compromising reliability. It’s particularly well-suited for sporting clays shooters and trap shooters who want more shots between reloads during practice sessions or competitions. Home defense scenarios also benefit from the increased firepower this extension provides.

Those who prioritize durability and a traditional aesthetic will find the solid blued steel construction highly appealing. Anyone looking for a straightforward, no-fuss upgrade that installs easily and performs consistently should consider this model. However, if minimizing weight is an absolute critical factor, or if a polymer construction is preferred for its unique properties, then other options might be worth exploring. For most Benelli Nova owners, though, this extension offers a superb balance of performance and value.

Conclusion on Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension

The Choate Tool Benelli Nova +2 Magazine Extension has proven itself to be a robust, reliable, and straightforward enhancement for the Benelli Nova 20-gauge shotgun. Its solid blued steel construction not only imparts a sense of lasting durability but also integrates aesthetically with the firearm. The ability to reliably add 2 rounds to the magazine capacity is a significant functional benefit, achieved without introducing any feeding issues during my extensive testing.

Considering its performance, build quality, and the fact that it includes all necessary components for a smooth installation, the asking price of $65.99 represents excellent value. For any Benelli Nova 20-gauge owner looking to maximize their shotgun’s potential with a proven and dependable upgrade, I would wholeheartedly recommend this magazine extension. It’s a testament to Choate Tool’s commitment to producing quality firearm accessories that enhance, rather than complicate, the shooting experience.