Covered in this article:
What is it?
What would you use this for?
That’s a short barrel
How to shoot the Tac-14
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What is it?
“The shortest allowable distance between powerless and prepared.” is how the Remington website describes the Tac-14. Based on Remington’s popular and proven model 870 action, this 12-gauge pump action firearm (not a shotgun) weighs 5 pounds 10 ounces empty.
The Tac-14 has a capacity of four plus one and an overall length of 26.3.” Its 14″ barrel has a cylinder bore and a bead front sight. It will accept 2-3/4″ or 3″ shells. The Tac-14 is available in 12- or 20-gauge.
A Magpul MOE forend and a Raptor pistol grip provide the control points.
Designed to meet minimum firearm requirements before National Firearms Act (NFA) rules take effect, the Tac-14 is sold as a firearm and not a shotgun. Those same NFA rules apply should you consider altering this firearm in any way. Know the law before you attempt any upgrades.
The Tac-14 is not a new concept. I won’t touch on the who created it conversation, but Serbu Firearms (with a beautiful NFA firearm), Mossberg and probably some others have already entered this space.
What would you use this for?
The Tac-14 falls squarely in the self-defense market. It’s maneuverable, light and holds five rounds. Whether you’re looking for a firearm for home defense, a tool to fend off grizzly bears when fishing or exploring in Alaska or need something in your RV to ensure your family is protected, I can see the Tac-14 in any of those scenarios.
That’s a short barrel
Yes, it is. Know where your hands are at all times. Especially during rapid fire strings, it’s possible to have your hand slip off the forend…with the end of the barrel so close, bad things could happen. Use common sense when learning to shoot this firearm. For improved retention and peace of mind, grip tape is available for the MOE forend as well as straps that attach via M-LOK hardware. I don’t find a strap necessary, grip tape works well for me. Those with less grip strength may find the strap aids in retention. A retention strap ships with Remington’s semi-automatic version of this firearm, the Tac-13.
How to shoot the Tac-14
The Tac-14 is a surprisingly fun firearm to shoot. I think everyone’s first thought is to fire this from the hip. Sure that’s one way to go, but not what I’d recommend. When the firearm is at the outer reaches of your arms (picture a pendulum) it’s more likely to do things that you don’t want it to. I don’t know you or your skill level, so the following should be attempted at your own peril. My recommended technique is to bring the Tac-14 up to eye level and use opposing forces to keep everything under control. Firmly hold the portion of the forend closest to you and push forward with your left hand (for right-handed shooters) while using your right hand to securely hold the pistol grip and pull it rearward. You’ll be able to sight down the barrel and with practice it becomes an accurate way to shoot the Tac-14. Additionally, this technique keeps your forward hand as far from the muzzle as is practical. It’s a 12-gauge, so the recoil is noticeable; if you’re reasonably fit and take your time, it’s not unbearable. Managed recoil 2-3/4″ loads are especially well-behaved. As with any firearm, know how to safely operate it, know your abilities and practice, practice, practice. Slow is smooth. Smooth is fast.
Sources:
Mossberg Firearms
www.mossberg.com
Remington Arms Company
www.remington.com
Serbu Firearms
www.serbu.com
About this review: This Tac-14 was personally acquired. I have not received any compensation for this review.
Next up…adding a plus one extension
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