First Look: Midland Arms Backpack

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posted on November 15, 2017
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Midland Arms announced the launch of its line of Backpack firearms, providing shooters with an easy-to-use, single-shot shotgun loaded with a number of innovative features that allow for use at home, in the field and on the range.

Midland considers its Backpack line of firearms to be a great option for young shooters, but the design is a worthy option for all shooters, thanks to its innovative design that can be packed away easily in any hunting, hiking, backpacking or camping kit. The break-open action folds into a compact package that measures only 20.25 inches long with guns equipped with 18-inch barrels, making them viable options for storage in any pack used for extended trips into the woods.

One of the other innovative elements of the Midland Arms Backpack is its use of an interchangeable-barrel system that allows owners to switch their guns over to different calibers with a simple component swap. As of its fall 2017 launch, the Backpack is available in 12-gauge, 20-gauge and .410-gauge calibers, but the company promises to offer interchangeable centerfire- and rimfire-caliber barrels as well.

The Midland Arms Backpack is constructed on a forged-steel receiver that's paired up with a deep-hole drilled barrel, providing buyers with a quality option that stands above other budget-priced guns on the market. The polymer buttstock is completely weatherproof and features a removable pad that allows shooters to add length, a desirable trait for guns that might be used by young firearm enthusiasts still growing.

In addition, removing the pad also reveals a hollow stock interior that allows for storage of a survival kit that's sold separately by Midland. On top of the buttstock, users will find a cheek piece that can be used easily by left- or right-handed shooters. The stock is also checkered at common contact points, ensuring that users always have a solid grip on the gun.

The Backpack also includes a number of safety features, including a cocking indicator that provides visual and touch confirmation that the gun is ready to fire. The guns are also equipped with a trigger-block safety that physically blocks the trigger sear from moving when activated.

Other elements of the Midland Arms Backpack include blued quick-detach sling-swivel studs, as well as a barrel threaded to accept commonly-available Beretta shotgun chokes. The gun ships with a modified shotgun choke installed.

Models chambered in 12 gauge are available in 18-inch, 24-inch and 26-inch barrel lengths. The 20-gauge model is available with a 26-inch barrel, while the .410-gauge option ships with an 18-inch barrel. The total weight of the Backpack is 4.4 pounds when equipped with an 18-inch barrel.

The suggested retail price of the Midland Arms Backpack is $149.95.


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