How to Customize Your Tactical Shotgun

by
posted on May 6, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
advice.jpg

Tactical shotguns are undeniably useful, especially after customization with a flashlight, laser, red dot and six-shell side saddle. What do you consider when selecting shotgun accoutrements? Price would probably be the first consideration, followed by quality of the product, reputation of the manufacturer and also function. You may ask yourself, “Does this product meet my needs, at a price I am willing to pay?” However, something you may not have considered (but should) is weight.  

Before you trick out your new inertia-driven shotgun, check the manufacturer’s recommendation regarding the maximum weight limit of the frame. This is because in an inertia-driven shotgun, the bolt free-floats between two springs. When the trigger is pulled, the shotgun fires and the frame recoils around the bolt. The bolt essentially stays still.  If we add more than 500 grams of gear to the frame of our Benelli M2 or M3, for example, the frame may be too heavy to cycle the bolt—and it could induce malfunctions.  

So, if you want to accessorize your inertia driven-shotgun with gear for defensive purposes or competition, remember to consider the products’ weight in addition to price, quality and function.  

Latest

Buk Ops Cycloptic
Buk Ops Cycloptic

First Impressions: BUK OPS Cycloptic Handheld Viewer

Change how you see in low-light conditions ... one lens at a time.

Remington Launches "Open Season" Bourbon

An adult beverage to toast your success in the woods and fields (after the guns are cleaned and stowed, of course)!

First Impressions: AirForce Airguns Tex-Rex .457

It starts with a thousand foot-pounds of energy, and just gets better from there.

Throwback Thursday: Welcome Surprise in Deadly Skies

Read all about "the most incredible encounter between enemies in World War II"!

National Deer Association: How to Spot the Oldest, Rarest Whitetail Bucks

Because they are so rare, tagging a "senior" buck is a real achievement. Here's how to tell when you see one (if you do see one!).

Video Review: Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Magnum Series Pistol

This rimfire semi-auto pistol chambers a rifle round, creating a "mini mighty magnum" that's tons of fun to shoot.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.