Remington Outdoors experienced huge success when they released their short, pump action 12 gauge firearm called the Remington 870 Tac-14. The Tac-14 uses a 14-inch barrel, a Shockwave bird’s head grip, a Magpul M-Lok for-end and operates like a shotgun. Due to its overall length of 26.3 inches, it is not a true shotgun nor a pistol. It is classified as a 12 gauge firearm which complies with federal regulations. The Tac-14’s shorter size and lighter weight make it ideal as a home defense firearm while enjoying the benefits that the 12 gauge load offers. The 870 Tac-14’s $350 (average) street price makes it an affordable home defense or vehicle firearm.
Remington recently released an upgraded semi-auto 12 gauge firearm called the Remington V3 Tac-13. The V3 Tac-13 is built incredibly strong, carries five shells in the magazine tube, has a 13-inch vented-rib cylinder bore barrel, a strong barrel clamp to attach the magazine tube and barrel, the same Shockwave birds-head grip and has a semi-automatic action that will fire as fast as one can pull the trigger. It is only 26.5 inches long with a black oxide aluminum receiver that is tapped for those who choose to add a rail and an optic for more precise shooting. The semi-automatic action uses a Versaport gas system that reduces felt recoil, allowing the shooter to remain in control and on target. The V3 Tac-13 weighs just 6 lbs 7 ounces loaded with five shells of buckshot, making it a lightweight semi-auto powerhouse.
A common question for semi-auto 12 gauge shotguns is: will it cycle lighter, low brass loads? In many cases, the lower energy loads do not have the power needed to cycle the bolt, eject the shell, and chamber the next round. I have experienced this problem with both higher-end, more expensive shotguns along with moderately-priced 12 gauge models.
During my range review, I loaded the Remington V3 Tac-13 with low-cost, low brass Federal 7.5 shot target loads. I demonstrated firing the low brass loads with my arms extended toward the target along with firing from my hip. With both ways of shooting, the V3 Tac-13 fed, fired and ejected the low brass shells with ease. I also fired several 00 buckshot loads at my targets. I was amazed at how well the V3 Tac-13 absorbed the recoil with the help of the hand strap and the Versaport gas system. The 00 buckshot loads, which typically kick pretty hard, were easily controlled with the V3 Tac-13.
Check out the video below and let us know your thoughts about the new Remington V3 Tac-13. Do you feel this 12 gauge firearm would be a good choice for home defense?
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