EOTECH-big
EOTech/Insight Technology Integrated Fore-end Light (IFL)
There’s no other sound in the world as distinctive as the sound of racking a shotgun. Whether it’s a Remington 870, Mossberg M500 or even an old Ithaca. And if the sound is coming from your cover unit, it only enhances that warm fuzzy feeling.
These days many jurisdictions are phasing out the pump shotgun in favor of the rifle-caliber carbine. If they do keep them around, the shotguns seem to become relegated to a less-lethal role — and that’s a shame. It’s almost as bad as being retired — all that history, experience and potential with nowhere to use it.
One CR123 powers the 120-lumen light, and also keeps things tidy,
allowing the light to be essentially flush with the end of the forearm.
A New Tactical Life
L3 EOTech merged with Insight Technology a while back, and along with some outstanding night vision and thermal devices the former two companies have come out with their Integrated Fore-end Light. Unlike their closest competitor, the EOTech IFL is truly integrated into the fore-end. It doesn’t stick out. There’s nothing to catch on a doorframe or hanging “wait a second” wires. Some would say, “Really, how often does that happen during a tactical search?” I’ve found it happened darn near every single time I didn’t want it to happen.
The EOTech light on a Mossberg 500 offers the same features as the 870 version,
but without the fore-end guard. However, ergonomics are still highly functional and serve
to keep the user’s hand firmly attached during cycling.
Good Price, Lots Of Light
On average, EOTech’s version runs about $100 less than comparable products, bringing it down to a cop-friendly price almost anyone can afford. The IFL’s LED puts out a minimum of 120 lumens, running off a single CR123 battery, for over 120 minutes of continuous light. And, because it’s an LED system, shock cycles with 12-gauge slug have tested well in excess of 3,000 rounds.
Activation is accomplished with ambidextrous pressure pads for quick engagements. You can control the light with constant on, momentary and strobe modes. It also has a dedicated off/on switch easily manipulated while wearing gloves — tactical or cold weather variety.
The system installs easily. If you’ve ever broken down a pump gun for cleaning, you can install the IFL. The unit measures 2.1×2.8×8.6″ and weighs 12.2 ounces. It can be operated at temperatures from 15 to 120 degrees F. It will even operate underwater to one meter for 30 minutes.
A main switch can be used to keep the unit off during storage or transport.
The EOTech installs easily on a Remington 870. Note the guard keeping the user’s
hand from slipping forward during action cycling.
Two Versions
Currently EOTech offers the IFL for the Remington 870 and the Mossberg M500 12-gauge models. There should be more versions on the horizon. The 870 version has an integrated handguard at the front of the IFL to prevent your hand from slipping in front of the barrel while vigorously racking the gun. While the Mossberg version lacks this feature, the design and texture provide a good, stable hold on the fore-end.
We found our test sample rugged, reliable and with good ergonomics. We recommend this if you’re in the market for an easy-to-manage shotgun light.
By Dave Douglas
For more info: (734) 741-8868, www.americancop.com/eotech
View The American COP February 2013 Issue now!
