Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension Review

Ready to Know the Truth About the Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension?

For years, my shotguns have been reliable workhorses, but the constant need to manage magazine capacity, especially during extended range sessions or specific tactical drills, has always been a minor frustration. The Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension promised a simple, effective solution to this. Manufactured by Choate Tool, this extension is designed to offer a significant boost in firepower by adding two additional shells. My initial impression upon arrival was positive; the matte blued steel felt robust, and the included components appeared well-made. I had considered a few other brands, but the reputation of Choate Tool for producing durable firearm accessories, coupled with the straightforward design of this particular extension, made it my choice. It arrived promptly, and I felt a quiet sense of anticipation, eager to see if it would live up to its claims.

Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing ground for the Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension was my local indoor shooting range, specifically during a session focused on rapid-fire drills and practical shooting exercises. The extension was fitted to a Tristar Cobra Force III, a platform known for its reliability. Installation, though requiring minor adjustments as noted in user feedback, was completed with basic tools.

The initial performance was promising. The extension seamlessly integrated with the existing magazine tube, and cycling the first few rounds felt smooth. Even with the added weight and length, the shotgun remained manageable, though I did notice a slight shift in balance.

During a rapid-fire sequence, the extension performed admirably, reliably feeding the additional rounds without a hitch. However, a small quirk emerged: while the product claims a +2 capacity, I found it consistently yielded only a +1 increase on my specific firearm after initial setup. This was a notable surprise and required some further investigation, hinting that individual firearm tolerances might play a role.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks of consistent use, comprising at least a dozen range trips and some dry-fire practice sessions at home, the Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension has proven its mettle in terms of basic functionality. The matte blued steel construction shows no significant wear, resisting superficial scratches and scuffs that might plague lesser finishes. Its ability to maintain its finish even with repeated handling and exposure to the elements at the range is a testament to its build quality.

Durability has been solid. There have been no cracks, no loosening of components, and the spring remains robust, providing consistent tension. Cleaning the shotgun, including the magazine tube with the extension installed, has been straightforward. No special tools or procedures are needed beyond what’s typical for shotgun maintenance.

When compared to my previous experience with less robust plastic extensions or those that required extensive modification, this steel unit from Choate Tool feels like a significant upgrade. The secure clamp and solid construction provide a level of confidence that cheaper alternatives simply don’t offer. While the capacity discrepancy is still a point of note, its mechanical reliability has been consistently high.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension

Specifications

The Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension is precisely engineered for compatibility with a range of popular shotguns, including the Fabarm FP6, Benelli NOVA, and various Franchi and H&R models, as well as the Tri Star Cobra and Raptor. This particular extension is designed to add +2 shotshells to your firearm’s capacity. It is constructed from solid Matte blued steel, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion.

Each kit is comprehensive, including the essential spring, a robust base clamp for secure attachment, and a new follower designed to work with the extended tube. The manufacturer, Choate Tool, emphasizes the use of steel for its strength and longevity, which is a significant advantage over plastic alternatives that can degrade or crack over time. The 12 Gauge compatibility is standard for these platforms.

The steel construction not only contributes to the product’s durability but also to its overall feel and stability when attached to the firearm. The matte blued finish provides a non-reflective surface that blends well with most tactical or sporting shotguns. The inclusion of a replacement spring and follower is critical, as these components are specifically designed to work optimally with the extended length, ensuring reliable feeding.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role of extending magazine capacity, the Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension performs its function adequately, though with a caveat regarding the exact number of shells added. While advertised as a +2 extension, my experience with it on a Tristar Cobra Force III consistently yielded an increase of only +1 shell over the factory capacity. This discrepancy is important for potential buyers to be aware of, as firearm tolerances and magazine tube lengths can vary slightly even within the same model.

Despite this specific capacity observation, the functionality of the extension in terms of reliably feeding rounds is excellent. The included spring is stout and consistently pushes shells up, and the new follower navigates the extension tube without issue. It has not caused any feeding failures or jams during my testing, which is paramount for any firearm accessory.

The core job of adding capacity, even if it’s a +1 on my particular setup, is still beneficial. For scenarios where an extra round can make a difference, having that additional shell reliably chambered is a definite performance enhancement. However, if your absolute requirement is a strict +2 increase, further research into compatibility with your specific shotgun model would be advisable.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension is undeniably robust and utilitarian. The solid steel construction imparts a feeling of permanence and resilience. Unlike some cheaper extensions that can feel flimsy or prone to damage, this unit feels like it could withstand significant abuse. The matte blued finish is applied evenly and provides a professional, understated appearance that complements the shotgun’s aesthetics rather than detracting from them.

Ergonomically, the extension adds length to the front of the shotgun. While this might slightly alter the balance, it doesn’t typically impede handling or aiming for most users, especially those familiar with extended magazine tubes. The base clamp is a crucial design element; it is substantial and securely fastens the extension to the barrel, eliminating any wobbling or movement that could compromise reliability.

The included follower is designed to facilitate smooth travel of shells through the added length, and its material seems durable enough to resist wear from the follower spring. The overall design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing reliability and durability over complex or aesthetic-heavy features. It’s a no-nonsense piece of equipment built for a specific purpose.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is where the Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension truly shines. After weeks of use, the solid steel construction shows no signs of stress or wear. There are no cracks, no bending, and the blued finish remains intact, resisting rust and minor abrasions effectively. This suggests that, with basic care, this extension should last for many years, outliving the shotgun it’s attached to in many cases.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. The extension is easily cleaned along with the rest of the shotgun’s magazine tube. The spring and follower are accessible after removing the extension, allowing for inspection and cleaning. There are no complex mechanisms or delicate parts to worry about.

The primary maintenance consideration is ensuring the base clamp remains securely tightened. While it held firm throughout my testing, periodic checks are always a good practice for any firearm accessory. Potential failure points are minimal due to the robust materials and simple design, making this a low-maintenance, high-reliability component.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension kit comes as a complete package, providing all necessary components for installation. This includes the extension tube itself, a sturdy base clamp, a replacement spring, and a new follower. There are no additional external accessories included or required for its basic function.

In terms of customization, this particular extension doesn’t offer many options beyond the inherent design itself. It’s built for a specific purpose and fits specific shotgun models. Unlike some firearm components that might allow for aftermarket grips, sights, or coatings, this is a functional add-on.

Its compatibility is limited to the specified shotgun models. While some aftermarket magazine tubes might offer a universal fit with different clamp designs, this Choate Tool offering is tailored. The focus is on providing a reliable, ready-to-install solution rather than a platform for further modification.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension

Who Should Buy Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension?

The Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension is ideally suited for owners of compatible 12-gauge shotguns who are looking to increase their firearm’s capacity without compromising on reliability or durability. This includes:

• Sporting Shooters: Those who participate in clay sports like skeet or trap, where extra rounds can be beneficial for longer shooting sessions.
• Home Defense Enthusiasts: Individuals who prioritize having more ammunition readily available in a defensive situation.
• 3-Gun Competitors: Participants in competitive shooting sports who need maximum magazine capacity for specific stages.
• Hunters: For certain types of hunting where a higher round count might be advantageous.

Anyone seeking an affordable, robust, and reliable way to add capacity to their Fabarm FP6, Benelli NOVA, or compatible Franchi, H&R, Tri Star, or Raptor shotgun should consider this product.

However, individuals who must have a guaranteed +2 capacity increase on every firearm should be cautious and perhaps research specific model compatibility further. Those prioritizing extreme light weight might find steel extensions less appealing than polymer alternatives, though at a potential cost to durability.

A must-have accessory would be a good quality lubricant and cleaning kit to maintain the firearm and the extension itself, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. For those who encounter minor fitment issues, a small set of files or a Dremel tool can be useful for making subtle adjustments to the shotgun’s magazine tube threads if necessary, though this should be approached with caution.

Conclusion on Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension

The Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension stands out as a solid, dependable upgrade for compatible 12-gauge shotguns. Its solid steel construction and matte blued finish speak to its durability and resistance to the elements, promising years of reliable service. The included spring and follower ensure consistent feeding, which is paramount for any firearm accessory. While my personal experience indicated a +1 capacity increase rather than the advertised +2 on a Tristar Cobra Force III, the overall functionality and build quality remain exceptionally high.

Considering its price point of $44.63, the value proposition is strong, especially when weighed against the potential for enhanced performance and reliability it offers. It provides a significant boost in ammunition capacity without introducing the fragility that can sometimes accompany lesser-made extensions.

I would recommend the Choate Tool Fab Arm +2 Shot Magazine Extension to anyone who owns a compatible shotgun and values robust construction and reliable operation. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, tough-as-nails addition to your scattergun that will reliably give you at least one extra round, this extension is a worthwhile investment. Just be prepared for the possibility that the exact capacity increase might vary slightly depending on your specific firearm model.