Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension Review

One Month Later: Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension Review

The Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension is a straightforward accessory designed to increase the ammunition capacity of specific Browning A-5 shotguns. This particular extension promises to add two extra shotshells, a significant boost for users who demand more firepower from their scattergun. My initial encounter with this accessory was driven by a desire to optimize my Browning A-5 for specific scenarios where magazine capacity is paramount.

The need arose from recent duck hunting trips where prolonged shooting sessions, coupled with the desire for follow-up shots without immediate reloading, highlighted the limitations of the standard magazine. I’ve always appreciated the classic lines and reliability of the Browning A-5 platform, but augmenting its capacity has been a goal. Considering this extension from Choate Tool, a manufacturer known for practical firearm accessories, felt like a logical step.

Upon receiving the Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension, my first impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. It’s made from what appears to be robust, blued steel, giving it a feel of durability that should withstand the rigors of field use. It arrived with the necessary components: the extension tube itself, a new spring, a base clamp, and a follower. The machining looked clean, with no obvious rough edges or defects.

I had briefly considered a few other generic extensions for semi-automatic shotguns, but the specific fitment for the A-5 model was crucial. The explicit mention that this will not fit OLD BROWNING A-5 shotguns was a key piece of information, ensuring I was looking at the correct iteration for the newer models. My immediate reaction upon inspection was one of practical satisfaction; this looked like a piece of equipment designed to work without fuss.

Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested this magazine extension in a familiar environment: the shooting range, and later, on a simulated duck hunt setup in my backyard. The installation process was performed under controlled conditions on my workbench. I meticulously followed the instructions, which were thankfully clear and concise.

The range provided the ideal setting for initial function checks. I loaded the A-5 with standard 2 3/4 inch target loads and then with some 3-inch magnum loads to gauge performance across different shell types. The extension slid on smoothly, and the base clamp secured it firmly.

Performance was surprisingly good right out of the gate. The extra rounds fed reliably, and I experienced no malfunctions related to the extension itself during several boxes of ammunition. Exposure to light dust on the range and a slightly damp evening in the yard didn’t seem to affect its operation or finish. The ease of use was exceptional; once installed, it became an integral part of the shotgun, requiring no special technique beyond standard operation.

A minor surprise was the slight increase in overall length and weight, which is to be expected with any magazine extension. It’s not so significant as to be cumbersome, but it’s noticeable when shouldering the firearm or carrying it for extended periods.

Extended Use & Reliability

After approximately one month of intermittent use, including several range sessions and a couple of scouting trips where I carried the shotgun, the Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension has held up admirably. Daily tasks involving drawing and re-holstering (if applicable, though not for this particular application, but rather the shotgun itself) or simply handling the firearm haven’t revealed any significant wear.

Durability has been a strong suit. There are no visible cracks or signs of stress on the steel tube, and the blued finish, while showing a few minor handling marks, remains intact. The crucial part, the spring and follower, have also functioned without degradation; the spring still has good tension, and the follower glides smoothly. I haven’t encountered any stiffness in operation, nor has performance dropped off.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick wipe down with a silicone cloth after exposure to the elements is usually sufficient. The extension can be easily removed for more thorough cleaning if needed, allowing access to the original magazine tube for deeper inspection. Compared to some aftermarket extensions I’ve used on other platforms, this one feels more robust and less prone to developing issues over time. It definitely outperforms the cheap, thin-walled extensions that can sometimes cause feeding problems.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension

Specifications

The Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension is constructed from solid blued steel, a material chosen for its inherent strength and resistance to corrosion. This extension is designed to add +2 shotshells to the magazine capacity of compatible Browning A-5 shotguns. The kit includes a new, appropriately tensioned spring, a robust base clamp for secure attachment, and a specially designed follower.

The use of steel for the extension tube ensures it can withstand the pressures and impacts associated with shotgun use. The blued finish provides a degree of protection against rust and matches the aesthetic of many firearms. The +2 capacity is a significant increase, particularly valuable for waterfowl hunters or those engaged in tactical shooting disciplines where rapid engagement of multiple targets is essential.

The included spring is crucial; it’s designed to provide consistent pressure for the increased number of shells, ensuring reliable feeding. The base clamp is engineered to tightly secure the extension to the shotgun’s existing magazine cap threads, preventing any wobble or separation during recoil. Finally, the follower is often a point of failure in less well-designed extensions, but Choate Tool appears to have provided a unit that ensures smooth passage of shells up the tube.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job – increasing magazine capacity and ensuring reliable feeding – this extension performs exceptionally well. The Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension seamlessly integrates with the Browning A-5 platform, allowing for smoother cycling of rounds with the added capacity. The mechanism for adding two extra shells is effectively realized, providing a tangible benefit for users needing more ammunition on hand.

Its greatest strength lies in its reliable feeding and the robust construction. I experienced zero failures to feed or eject when using this extension with various types of ammunition within the shotgun’s specifications. The added capacity is met without compromising the shotgun’s intrinsic functionality, which is a critical aspect of any firearm accessory.

A potential weakness, though minor, is the slight increase in the overall length of the firearm, which could marginally affect maneuverability in extremely confined spaces. However, for its intended uses like hunting or competitive shooting, this is a trade-off most users will readily accept for the increased ammunition. It clearly meets, and in terms of reliability, arguably exceeds expectations for a simple capacity enhancement.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension is purely functional and robust, reflecting its USA manufacturing origin. The choice of blued steel gives it a classic, understated look that complements many shotgun finishes. The build quality feels substantial; it’s not a lightweight accessory but feels built to last.

Ergonomically, once installed, it becomes part of the firearm and doesn’t introduce any significant new challenges. The added length is predictable and manageable. The securing mechanism, the base clamp, is designed to be snug and secure without requiring excessive force, and it doesn’t present any sharp edges or uncomfortable points of contact during normal handling.

The simple tube design means there are no complex parts to accidentally activate or disorient the user. Its straightforwardness contributes positively to the overall shooting experience. The tactile feel of the steel is solid and reassuring, indicating it can handle the stresses of repeated firing.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my month of use and the material it’s made from, the Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension is built for longevity. I anticipate it will last for many years of regular use, likely outliving the shotgun itself if properly cared for. Its steel construction is inherently durable.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving keeping it clean and dry to preserve the blued finish. It’s easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning if ever needed, allowing access to both the inside of the extension and the shotgun’s original magazine tube. There are no obvious failure points that jump out; the design is simple and effective, minimizing potential points of breakage.

The primary concern for any extension is the strength of the attachment and the reliability of the spring and follower over time. So far, Choate Tool has delivered on these critical aspects.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension comes as a complete kit, including the extension tube, spring, base clamp, and follower. There are no additional accessories included or typically needed for its basic function. The primary customization here is the addition of capacity itself.

As it’s designed specifically for certain Browning A-5 models, compatibility with aftermarket accessories for the shotgun itself is generally unaffected, as the extension replaces the factory magazine cap and extends the tube. However, the extension itself doesn’t offer further customization in terms of variable capacity or specialized attachments. The core offering is its +2 shotshell capacity.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension

Who Should Buy Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension?

This magazine extension is ideal for owners of the compatible, newer model Browning A-5 shotguns who frequently engage in activities demanding higher ammunition capacity. This includes waterfowl hunters who need to make multiple shots during a single opportunity, sporting clays or 3-gun competitors looking for an edge, and individuals interested in home defense where increased rounds could be critical. Anyone who has found themselves wishing for just a couple more shots before needing to reload will benefit greatly.

Those who should probably skip this product are owners of older A-5 models, as it is explicitly incompatible. Additionally, if extreme portability in the most confined spaces is a primary concern and the added length is a deal-breaker, then this might not be the best choice.

A must-have accessory to complement this would be a good quality sling for the shotgun, as the added weight and length might make it more noticeable when carried. Also, ensure you have ample supply of your preferred ammunition to take full advantage of the increased capacity.

Conclusion on Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension

The Choate Tool Browning A-5 +2 Magazine Extension is a well-made, reliable, and effective upgrade for the specific Browning A-5 models it supports. Its robust steel construction, straightforward installation, and consistent performance make it a worthwhile investment. For its price point of $48.01, the value proposition is strong, offering a tangible improvement in functionality without breaking the bank.

I would personally recommend this extension to any owner of a compatible Browning A-5 shotgun who seeks to enhance their firearm’s capacity. It performs its intended function flawlessly, adding two crucial shotshells without introducing reliability issues. It’s a simple, effective, and durable modification that genuinely improves the utility of the shotgun for its intended purpose. If you have the right A-5, this is an easy decision for more firepower.