Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot Review

Ready to Know the Truth About the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot?

For anyone who relies on the venerable Remington 870, 1100, or 11-87 platform for home defense, tactical applications, or even competition, the question of increasing magazine capacity is a familiar one. My own journey into this realm began with a need for more ‘on-tap’ firepower, particularly for a build focused on home security where every round counts. The standard capacity, while adequate for many scenarios, often felt limiting during extended range sessions or when simulating defensive situations. This led me to explore aftermarket solutions, and ultimately, I settled on the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot. My initial impression upon unpacking this unit was one of solid, no-nonsense utility. The blued steel construction felt robust, and it promised a significant boost in round count without adding excessive bulk. While other brands offer similar extensions, Carlson’s reputation for quality components in the shotgun accessory market made them a compelling choice, and frankly, the price point was also a significant factor in moving from contemplation to purchase. There was a tangible sense of anticipation – a hope that this simple addition would indeed solve my capacity dilemma effectively.

Real-World Testing: Putting Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial foray with this magazine extension took place on my workshop bench, followed by immediate testing at the local indoor range. The installation process itself was straightforward, requiring basic tools and adherence to the provided instructions. The threaded tube seamlessly replaced the factory magazine cap, and the included spring and follower slid into place with a satisfying, snug fit. At the range, the first few cycles were a revelation. The increased capacity meant fewer interruptions for reloads during a standard drill, allowing for a more fluid practice session. The extension performed admirably under typical shooting conditions, handling various loads without any hiccups. I did notice a slight adjustment period required to get a feel for the added weight and length, particularly during rapid transitions, but this was minor and quickly became second nature. No significant issues or surprises cropped up; it performed precisely as advertised straight out of the box.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use across various scenarios – from dedicated range days to rigorous defensive shotgun drills – this magazine extension has proven its mettle. It has endured countless rounds and the occasional bump against doorframes during drills without showing any signs of distress. The blued steel construction has maintained its finish remarkably well, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs that are testament to its active use rather than any inherent weakness. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down after range sessions and occasional lubrication of the spring has kept it running flawlessly. Compared to some other extensions I’ve encountered over the years, this Carlson’s product stands out for its unwavering reliability and the feeling that it’s built to last. There have been no jams, no feeding issues, and the spring has retained its tension perfectly, ensuring consistent performance load after load.

Breaking Down the Features of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot

Specifications

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot is crafted from durable, blued solid steel, providing a robust and corrosion-resistant exterior. This specific model offers a significant capacity increase, extending the magazine to hold seven additional rounds of standard 2 ¾-inch shells. It comes complete with a longer spring specifically designed for the extended capacity, a high-visibility follower (often orange or red, aiding in chamber/magazine status checks), and a base clamp with an integrated swivel stud. This swivel stud is a thoughtful addition, ready to accept a quick-detach (QD) sling swivel, further enhancing the shotgun’s utility for tactical or hunting applications. The overall length of this particular extension, as indicated by specific model numbers in Carlson’s catalog (like the 04500 at 8.25 inches, or others varying slightly), ensures it integrates well with common barrel lengths without excessive protrusion. The fact that it’s a USA-made product also speaks to a certain standard of manufacturing quality. Understanding these specifications is crucial; the steel construction guarantees durability for hard use, while the extended capacity directly addresses the need for increased firepower, and the inclusion of the swivel stud adds significant tactical advantage straight out of the box. It’s important to note that while this is a 7-shot extension, the total capacity of the firearm will be 7+1 (when accounting for a shell in the chamber). Using longer shells (3-inch or 3.5-inch) will reduce the number of shells that fit within the extension, a critical point for reload planning.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot is to reliably increase the ammunition capacity of compatible Remington shotguns, and it excels at this. Its performance is characterized by smooth, consistent feeding, ensuring that each round makes its way into the action without hesitation. The high-visibility follower is a standout feature, providing an immediate visual cue of the magazine’s status, which is invaluable during high-stress situations or rapid reloads. Installation is straightforward, and once fitted, it becomes an integral part of the firearm, functioning as if it were original equipment.

A significant strength is the consistent reliability across different ammunition types within the 12-gauge platform, from light target loads to heavier defensive rounds. The included spring is robust and engineered to push rounds up reliably, even with the increased length. The only minor limitation might be related to the firearm’s own action; if the shotgun has any underlying feeding issues, the extension will amplify them, but this is not a fault of the extension itself. It unequivocally meets and often exceeds expectations for a component designed to enhance firearm capacity and functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this magazine extension is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, complementing the classic lines of Remington shotguns. The blued steel finish typically matches factory finishes very well, creating a cohesive look. The overall build quality is robust; the tube feels solid and well-machined, without any rough edges or visible defects.

Ergonomically, the extension adds length and weight to the front of the shotgun. This is a trade-off for increased capacity, and most users find it manageable, with some even appreciating the added forward weight for better balance and control during recoil. The threaded connection is precise, ensuring a secure fit against the receiver. The included base clamp with swivel stud is a particularly well-thought-out design element, offering a convenient point for sling attachment without requiring additional modifications. The overall feel is one of solid engineering, built for purpose and durability.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, this magazine extension is built to last. The solid steel construction is inherently strong and resistant to impacts and stress. Over my extended testing period, it has shown no signs of cracking, deformation, or material fatigue, even after being subjected to the recoil of numerous shots.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A regular cleaning routine involves disassembling the extension (which is as easy as unscrewing it from the receiver), wiping down the internal spring and follower, and reassembling. The blued finish is reasonably resilient to minor scratches, but significant abuse could eventually wear it down. It’s important to keep the internal spring and follower clean and lightly lubricated to ensure smooth operation and prevent potential rust, especially in humid environments. No specific failure points have emerged, which is a testament to its robust design and quality manufacturing.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot comes with a well-considered set of components that enhance its immediate usability. The inclusion of a longer, stronger spring is critical for ensuring reliable feeding with the extended capacity. The high-visibility follower significantly improves situational awareness. Perhaps the most notable accessory is the base clamp with a built-in swivel stud, which directly supports the use of QD sling swivels without the need for separate clamp purchases or modifications to the shotgun’s forearm.

While the extension itself is designed for specific Remington models and doesn’t offer broad “customization” in the traditional sense, its compatibility with standard shotgun accessories is a key benefit. The swivel stud allows for immediate integration with a wide array of slings available on the market. For those seeking further personalization, the extension’s design is generally compatible with different barrel lengths and various aftermarket stocks or forends, as long as the shotgun model is supported.

Pros and Cons of Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot

Who Should Buy Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot?

This magazine extension is an ideal choice for any owner of a Remington 870, 1100, or 11-87 shotgun who is looking to enhance their firearm’s tactical or home defense capabilities. It’s perfect for individuals involved in competition shooting where higher capacity is advantageous, or for law enforcement officers who require increased ammunition on hand. Anyone seeking to maximize the utility and firepower of their existing Remington shotgun without a complete firearm replacement will find this upgrade immensely beneficial.

Conversely, if you are uncomfortable with making minor modifications to your firearm (like drilling dimples), or if you prefer a minimalist, lightweight setup and do not require extended magazine capacity, this product might not be for you. Those who primarily use their shotgun for sport shooting with low round-count requirements might also find it unnecessary. For optimal performance and ease of use, pairing this extension with a good quality sling and ensuring your shotgun’s action is properly maintained are highly recommended.

Conclusion on Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot

The Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870/1100/11-87 Magazine Extension 7 Shot delivers precisely what it promises: a robust, reliable, and cost-effective way to significantly boost the ammunition capacity of your favorite Remington shotgun. Its solid steel construction, thoughtful inclusion of essential components like the high-visibility follower and integrated swivel stud, and overall dependable performance make it a standout accessory. While the necessity of minor firearm modification might give some pause, the benefits of increased firepower and improved tactical readiness are undeniable. For its price point, the value proposition is exceptional, offering the performance often found in much more expensive kits. I would wholeheartedly recommend this magazine extension to any owner of a compatible Remington shotgun looking to enhance their firearm’s capabilities for defensive, tactical, or competitive applications. It’s a smart investment that brings tangible improvements to an already legendary platform.