Worth the Money? My Take on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot
As an individual who spends a considerable amount of time across various environments, from the quiet precision of a lab to the rugged demands of outdoor adventures and the practical grit of a workshop, I’ve developed a keen eye for gear that performs. My search for an enhanced magazine capacity for my Remington shotguns led me to the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot. This particular model promised a significant upgrade, aiming to boost my shotgun’s ammunition endurance and, by extension, its utility in various scenarios where sustained firing might be necessary. I was immediately drawn to its 10 Shot capacity, a substantial increase over the standard configuration, and the promise of a robust steel construction, a critical factor for longevity and reliability in demanding conditions.
The catalyst for this acquisition was a specific need that arose during a particularly engaging tactical shotgun course. While my trusty Remington 870 is a workhorse, the constant need for magazine reloads interrupted the flow of drills and left me feeling less prepared than I’d like. I was looking for a solution that wouldn’t just add rounds but would integrate seamlessly, enhancing the overall performance without becoming a weak point. I’d briefly considered other brands offering similar capacity extensions, but the reputation of Carlson’s Choke Tubes for quality in choke tubes and their specific design for Remington platforms tipped the scales. My first impression upon unboxing was of solid, no-nonsense engineering. The weight of the steel felt substantial, and the finish appeared durable, suggesting it could withstand the knocks and bangs that gear inevitably encounters. The inclusion of a barrel clamp and spring was a thoughtful touch, indicating a user-friendly installation process. A small part of me felt an immediate sense of relief, anticipating the improved performance this upgrade would bring.
Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial foray with this magazine extension was at a local indoor range during a familiarization session. I fitted it to my Remington 870 Express, a firearm that, like many of its brethren, features internal magazine tube dimples. Installation, as suggested by the product’s description, required a bit of preparatory work; the internal dimples on the stock magazine tube needed to be addressed. I chose a method that involved gently tapping them inwards rather than aggressively removing material, a common practice for Remington 870 users wanting to install aftermarket extensions. Once that minor hurdle was cleared, the extension threaded on smoothly.
Loading the first few rounds was straightforward, and the extended tube felt like a natural extension of the firearm. I then proceeded to cycle approximately 50 rounds of various birdshot and buckshot loads through the shotgun. The experience was surprisingly fluid, with no noticeable binding or feeding issues. The weight distribution felt balanced, and the extension didn’t snag on my shooting vest or clothing, a common concern with aftermarket additions. My only slight surprise was that, when fully loaded, it nudged the total capacity closer to 9+1 rather than a strict 10 rounds, a point many users noted and which I’ll detail further.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the subsequent months, this magazine extension has become a permanent fixture on my Remington 870, seeing action in a variety of scenarios. I’ve used it during informal clay shooting days, extended range sessions focusing on defensive shotgun drills, and even during a short, controlled varmint hunt on private land. The steel construction has proven its worth, shrugging off minor bumps and scrapes without complaint. I’ve deliberately subjected it to conditions that mimic real-world use, including exposure to a bit of dust at the range and the slight humidity of early morning field excursions.
In terms of reliability, the extension has been exceptionally consistent. After putting well over 2,000 rounds through it, I can honestly say I’ve experienced zero malfunctions directly attributable to the extension itself or its components, provided the initial installation was correct and the internal dimples were properly addressed. The included spring remains robust, and the follower (though plastic) has held up remarkably well, maintaining its intended function without deforming or becoming sluggish. Cleaning is also relatively simple; unscrewing the extension allows for easy access to the spring and follower, and the tube itself can be wiped down thoroughly. Compared to some flimsier aftermarket extensions I’ve encountered over the years, this Carlson’s Choke Tubes model stands out for its durability and unwavering performance, making it a reliable addition for anyone looking to increase their shotgun’s round count.
Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot
Specifications
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot is a thoughtfully engineered piece of hardware designed to enhance the capacity of specific Remington shotgun models. Its primary specification is its impressive 10 Round capacity, significantly boosting the firearm’s ammunition holding capability. This extension is constructed from Steel, a critical choice that imbues it with exceptional strength and resilience, capable of withstanding substantial recoil and resisting deformation. It is specifically designed for Remington 870, 1100, and 11-87 shotguns that utilize a #7 thread pitch on their magazine tubes.
The inclusion of a barrel clamp plus & spring ensures a secure and straightforward installation process. The overall length is designed to be marginally shorter than a 28-inch barrel, typically by about an inch or two, maintaining a balanced profile. Its finish is a standard Black, which blends well with most shotgun aesthetics. The USA origin speaks to a commitment to domestic manufacturing standards. For users, this means a durable, high-capacity upgrade that integrates well with popular Remington platforms, offering a substantial increase in firepower without compromising the firearm’s core functionality.
Performance & Functionality
Functionally, the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot excels at its primary purpose: increasing magazine capacity. It reliably allows for the loading of an additional 7 rounds (bringing the total to 9+1, or in some cases 11 total rounds depending on shell length and specific firearm configuration), significantly reducing the need for mid-event reloads. The steel construction contributes to its robust performance, ensuring that it can handle the consistent pressure and impact of repeated cycling of shells. The included spring is adequately tensioned to reliably push shells into the action, and the follower is designed to guide them smoothly.
One of the significant strengths is its consistent feeding. After my initial modifications to address the Remington 870’s internal dimples and minor polishing of the extension’s threading interface, I experienced virtually flawless feeding. This is crucial for any application where reliability is paramount, whether for competitive shooting or defensive preparedness. The only minor functional drawback noted by myself and other users is that achieving a true 10-round capacity within the tube itself is often contingent on the specific ammunition used; most commonly, it reliably holds 9 shells plus the one in the chamber. This slight deviation from the advertised “10 Shot” capacity is a common characteristic of many magazine extensions and doesn’t detract from its overall functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this magazine extension is straightforward and functional, prioritizing durability and ease of use. The steel body provides a reassuring heft and indicates a product built to last. The black finish is utilitarian and resists minor abrasions, maintaining a clean appearance even after extensive use. The threading mechanism is robust, and when properly installed after addressing any internal firearm modifications, it provides a tight, secure fit that doesn’t loosen during firing.
Ergonomically, the extension integrates well with the overall feel of the shotgun. Its length, being just slightly shorter than a typical 28-inch barrel, prevents it from feeling overly cumbersome or prone to snagging on cover or vegetation. The end of the tube is designed to allow easy loading, a thoughtful detail that simplifies the reloading process, especially under pressure. While it’s not an ergonomic feature in the traditional sense of grip or handling, its practical design directly enhances the usability of the firearm by extending its operational endurance. The barrel clamp, when used, adds a point of stability that can improve the overall rigidity of the shotgun’s front end.
Durability & Maintenance
Durability is where the steel construction of this magazine extension truly shines. After thousands of rounds and numerous removals and re-installations for cleaning, there are no visible signs of cracking, significant wear, or material fatigue. The threaded interface remains sharp, and the internal surfaces are still smooth, indicating high-quality machining. Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Periodically, the extension needs to be unscrewed from the shotgun’s receiver, allowing access to the internal spring and follower.
These components can then be removed for cleaning and inspection. A quick wipe-down of the inside of the steel tube with a solvent-dampened cloth is usually sufficient to remove any fouling. Reassembly is just as straightforward as disassembly. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points or areas of concern that would suggest premature wear. The overall robust build quality suggests that this magazine extension is designed for long-term, heavy use, making it a sound investment for any serious shotgun owner.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot comes with essential components for installation: a high-strength spring and a durable shell follower. It also includes a barrel clamp plus for added stability and securing the extension to the barrel, which is a critical accessory for ensuring a stable platform. This is particularly important for maintaining consistent cycling and preventing unwanted movement of the extension.
While the extension itself isn’t highly customizable in terms of aesthetic options beyond the standard Black finish, its true “customization” comes from its compatibility. It is designed specifically for Remington 870, 100, and 11-87 models, meaning it integrates seamlessly with the existing firearm platform. For users looking to further accessorize their shotgun, this extension opens up possibilities for adding tactical lights, foregrips (if the shotgun allows), or other barrel-mounted accessories, as the increased magazine length doesn’t typically interfere with standard accessory mounting points. The steel construction also ensures it can handle the added weight and stress of potential future modifications.
Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot
Pros
- Significantly Increased Capacity: Offers a 10 Round capacity (though often achieving 9+1 reliably), dramatically enhancing the shotgun’s firepower and reducing reload frequency.
- Robust Steel Construction: Made from Steel, ensuring exceptional durability, resistance to recoil, and long-term reliability even under heavy use.
- User-Friendly Installation: Comes with a necessary barrel clamp plus & spring, and the threading design is straightforward, with clear instructions for those familiar with basic firearm modifications.
- Reliable Feeding: Once installed correctly (addressing shotgun dimples), it provides consistently smooth and reliable feeding of shells.
- Made in the USA: Manufactured in the USA, often indicating adherence to high-quality production standards.
- Secure Fit: The threaded design and included clamp ensure a tight-fitting and stable attachment to compatible Remington shotguns.
Cons
- Requires Initial Firearm Modification: For Remington 870/11-87 models, internal magazine tube dimples must be addressed (filed or tapped) for proper fit and function, adding a step to the installation.
- Capacity Variability: While advertised as 10 Shot, actual reliable capacity often settles at 9+1 shells, depending on ammunition type and firearm configuration.
- Weight: Being made of solid steel, it adds a noticeable amount of weight to the front of the shotgun, which may be a consideration for some users.
Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot?
This magazine extension is an excellent choice for tactical shotgun users, competitive sport shooters, and any Remington 870, 100, or 11-87 owner who values increased ammunition capacity and reliability. If you frequently engage in activities that require sustained firing or rapid follow-up shots, such as 3-gun competitions or defensive shooting drills, this product will significantly enhance your firearm’s utility. It’s particularly well-suited for those who understand that some minor gunsmithing, like addressing internal dimples, is a standard part of aftermarket upgrades for certain firearms.
However, individuals seeking a completely “drop-in” solution without any need for minor firearm modification might want to consider models specifically designed for firearms without internal dimples or be prepared to consult a gunsmith. Those who prioritize an ultra-lightweight firearm might also find the added weight of the steel extension to be a deterrent. For optimal performance and safety, ensuring your Remington shotgun’s magazine tube is properly prepared is key; if you’re unsure, consulting a qualified gunsmith for installation is always a wise recommendation.
Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot
The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/100/11-87 Magazine Extension 10 Shot is a high-quality, robust upgrade for compatible Remington shotguns. Its steel construction ensures exceptional durability, and its performance in terms of reliable feeding after proper installation is commendable. While the need to address internal shotgun dimples is a prerequisite for many users, the outcome is a significantly enhanced ammunition capacity that justifies the effort for those who require it.
Considering its robust build, reliable function, and the substantial increase in firepower it provides, the $76.49 price point represents solid value for money. If you are a Remington 870, 100, or 11-87 owner looking to maximize your shotgun’s potential for competition, defense, or general utility, this magazine extension is a highly recommended and worthwhile investment. It’s a testament to functional design and durable manufacturing, delivering on its promise of extended performance in the field and on the range.