What You Didn’t Know About the Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby
When you’re looking to upgrade your shotgun’s magazine capacity, especially for platforms like the Benelli Nova or Beretta 1301, the devil is often in the details. The Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby is one such critical, often overlooked, component. It’s not just a simple cap; it’s the crucial interface that allows a standard shotgun to accept an extended magazine tube. My own journey with this particular nut began when I wanted to increase the ammunition endurance of my Benelli Nova for longer range sessions without constant reloading. I had picked up a Nordic Components extension tube kit, only to realize the factory magazine cap wouldn’t accommodate it. This necessity led me to this specific Nordic Components product. My initial impression upon receiving it was positive; the matte black finish felt durable, and the machining looked precise, hinting at good craftsmanship for a part designed to replace a factory component and ensure a secure fit. While other brands offer similar adapters, Nordic Components has a reputation for quality, making this the logical choice to pair with their extension tube. Its arrival brought a sense of practical satisfaction, knowing a key step towards a more capable shotgun was now in hand.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut focused on its direct application: installing it onto a Benelli Nova. The scenario was straightforward: a clean workbench in my home workshop, aiming for a reliable and secure fit for a +2 magazine extension. Performance in different conditions wasn’t initially a concern, as the primary goal was a proper, leak-free seal. The ease of use was surprisingly high, but with a significant caveat mentioned in the product description. The need to “smooth or remove mag dimples or spring retainers” was critical for a proper fit. On my Nova, this involved a minor stoning of the internal dimples within the factory magazine tube, a small but necessary modification to allow the Nordic Components nut to seat fully. After this minor adjustment, the nut threaded on smoothly, and the extension tube and spring assembly seated perfectly. There were no immediate issues or surprises beyond the expected minor fitting adjustment required by the shotgun’s internal design.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and numerous range trips with the Benelli Nova now fitted with the Nordic Components extension tube, this particular nut has proven its mettle. It has endured repeated shotgun use, including drills that involve rapid firing and the associated recoil. The matte black finish has held up exceptionally well, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs from handling rather than any deep gouges or chipping. Maintenance and care for this component are virtually nonexistent; it’s essentially a permanent fixture once installed correctly. Cleaning the shotgun involves wiping down the extension tube and nut assembly, with no special attention required. Compared to previous experiences with generic, less precisely machined magazine cap replacements, this Nordic Components unit feels significantly more robust and reliable. It has consistently prevented any magazine feeding issues, ensuring the shotgun cycles smoothly under stress.
Breaking Down the Features of Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby
Specifications
The Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby is constructed from what appears to be anodized aluminum, finished in a Matte Black that complements most tactical shotguns. It’s designed to replace the factory magazine cap, functioning as the mounting point for the Nordic Components MXT Extension Tube Kit. The product specifications list its Magazine Capacity as 0 Round, which is accurate as it doesn’t add capacity itself but enables it. Its Condition is listed as New.
What these specifications mean in practical terms is that this nut provides a robust and secure interface. The aluminum construction ensures durability without adding excessive weight, crucial for a firearm. Its primary function is to provide a threaded surface that mates securely with the Nordic Components extension tube. This ensures that the entire magazine extension system remains firmly attached, preventing malfunctions or dislodgment, especially during vigorous use. While many aftermarket magazine caps might be a generic fit, this nut is specifically designed for compatibility with a range of popular shotgun models, including the Benelli Nova/SuperNova and multiple Beretta variants. This broad compatibility is a significant advantage.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its core function, the Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut performs exceptionally well. It reliably secures the magazine extension tube, allowing for increased ammunition capacity without compromising the firearm’s operation. The threads engage smoothly with both the factory magazine tube and the Nordic Components extension tube, creating a solid connection. There have been no instances of the nut loosening or the extension tube becoming detached, even under heavy recoil from slugs and buckshot.
Its main strength is its secure and positive locking mechanism when properly installed. The design effectively bridges the gap between the shotgun’s internal magazine tube and the external extension, ensuring a continuous feed path for the ammunition. A potential weakness, or rather a necessary precursor to optimal function, is the requirement to modify the shotgun’s internal magazine dimples or spring retainers. This isn’t a fault of the nut itself, but rather a detail that users must be aware of for a seamless installation. Without this minor modification on some shotgun models, the nut may not seat fully, potentially leading to a less secure fit or even light leaks if the extension is clear.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Nordic Components nut is straightforward yet effective. It’s a cylindrical piece with precisely machined external threads to accept the extension tube and internal threading or a smooth seating surface designed to interface with the shotgun’s magazine. The Matte Black finish is aesthetically pleasing and provides a non-reflective surface, which is appreciated in tactical applications. It feels substantial in hand, indicating quality machining and material.
Ergonomically, it’s designed to be installed and forgotten. Once the extension tube is attached, the nut becomes part of the overall magazine assembly. The grip surface on the nut itself isn’t typically used for direct manipulation after installation, as the extension tube or the shotgun’s forearm is what you’ll be holding. However, the precise machining means it installs easily by hand or with minimal tool assistance, without cross-threading or requiring excessive force. The absence of sharp edges or unnecessary protrusions also means it won’t snag on clothing or gear.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the anodized aluminum construction suggests a long service life. Under normal use for a shotgun accessory, it is unlikely to wear out prematurely. The Matte Black finish is also quite resilient and has resisted scratching and chipping remarkably well through regular handling and range use.
Maintenance is practically nil. Once installed, it requires no special cleaning beyond the general cleaning of the shotgun itself. Wiping it down with a cloth to remove any dust or debris is usually sufficient. Any potential failure points would likely stem from a poor installation where the internal shotgun dimples were not addressed, leading to stress on the threads, or from extreme physical damage like a direct impact that could deform the threads. However, for its intended purpose and within reasonable operational parameters, it’s built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby is itself an accessory that enables customization. It does not come with additional accessories. Its primary function is to allow the attachment of Nordic Components’ own MXT Extension Tube Kits, which typically include the extension tube itself and a compatible magazine spring.
The nut is designed to mate specifically with these Nordic Components extension tubes, ensuring a seamless fit. While it replaces the factory magazine cap, it doesn’t typically offer user-customizable features beyond its direct function of facilitating magazine extension. The real customization comes from selecting the appropriate length of the Nordic Components extension tube kit to achieve the desired magazine capacity.
Pros and Cons of Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby
Pros
- Enables Increased Magazine Capacity: The primary function is achieved flawlessly, allowing for significant ammunition upgrades.
- Excellent Build Quality: Machined from durable aluminum with a resilient Matte Black finish.
- Secure Fitment: When installed correctly after addressing internal shotgun dimples, it provides a rock-solid connection for the extension tube.
- Broad Compatibility: Designed to fit a wide range of popular shotgun models, including Benelli and Beretta platforms.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The Matte Black finish integrates well with tactical shotgun aesthetics.
Cons
- Requires Minor Firearm Modification: Users must be prepared to address internal magazine tube dimples or spring retainers for proper seating on some shotguns.
- Sold Separately from Extension: The nut is a necessary component but requires the purchase of the extension tube kit independently.
- Specific to Nordic Components Extensions: While it fits the shotgun, it is optimized for and designed to be used with Nordic Components’ own extension tubes.
Who Should Buy Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby?
This nut is ideal for shotgun owners who are looking to significantly increase their firearm’s ammunition capacity for practical shooting disciplines, competition, or simply extended range sessions. If you own a compatible shotgun, such as a Benelli Nova/SuperNova or one of the listed Beretta models, and you are planning to install a Nordic Components MXT Extension Tube Kit, then this nut is an absolute necessity. It’s a perfect fit for the DIY enthusiast who isn’t afraid of making minor modifications to their firearm to achieve desired performance enhancements.
However, users who prefer a completely drop-in part with zero firearm modification might find the requirement to address internal dimples a minor hurdle. Those seeking to increase magazine capacity with a different brand of extension tube might also look for a universal adapter, though compatibility with Nordic Components’ own system is guaranteed. For anyone planning to use a Nordic Components extension, the accompanying Magazine Spring and the Extension Tube itself are essential complementary items that complete the upgrade.
Conclusion on Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby
The Nordic Components Shotgun Extension Tube Nut, Benelli Nova/SuperNova, Beretta 1301/391 Xtrema/391 Xtrema II/Tx4/A400/A400 Xtreme, CZ 712/912, Weatherby is a prime example of a critical component that punches above its perceived weight. It’s not flashy, but its role in enabling magazine extension is indispensable. The quality of materials and machining from Nordic Components is evident, providing a durable and reliable interface for a higher-capacity shotgun setup. While the necessity of potentially modifying internal shotgun dimples is a factor to consider, it’s a small price to pay for the functionality it unlocks.
Considering its performance, build quality, and the significant upgrade it facilitates, the $42.75 price point offers good value. It’s a well-made piece that integrates seamlessly with Nordic Components’ extension tube systems. I would wholeheartedly recommend this extension tube nut to anyone looking to upgrade their compatible shotgun with a Nordic Components MXT Extension Tube Kit. If you’re embarking on a shotgun capacity upgrade, ensuring you have this precisely engineered part from Nordic Components is a smart and reliable choice that ensures your upgraded system functions as intended.