First Look: Adaptive Tactical EX Performance Tactical Light Forend

For many defense-minded firearm owners, a 12-gauge, pump-action shotgun is a go-to tool for home defense. When it comes to the pump-action, defensive shotguns, two models stand out above the rest: the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 and its derivatives. Adaptive Tactical unveiled an add-on in late 2018 that's designed to enhance the utility of these shotguns in nighttime conditions: the EX Performance Tactical Light Forend.

“The addition of an integrated tactical light in the EX Performance line is an obvious step in expanding the capabilities of our products to include use in low-light conditions. This feature is especially important for our law enforcement and home defense customers,” said Gary Cauble, director of sales and marketing for Adaptive Tactical.

Designed to attach to any Remington 870, Mossberg 500, 590 or Maverick 88 shotgun chambered in 12 gauge , the Adaptive Tactical EX Performance Tactical Light Forend melds into the profile of these duty-ready platforms, providing a seamless, low-profile illumination tool mounted directly to the forearm. The pump-action handguard features textured ribs that ensure a solid, secure, non-slip gripping surface. The forward portion of the handguard includes two inches of Picatinny rail for mounting the included tactical light or other rail-mounted accessories. Don't want anything on your handguard? An included fore-end cap allows users to cover the rail when not in use.

The Adaptive Tactical light included with the forearm provides 300 lumens of bright area lighting and is powered by two included AA batteries, which powers the light for up to three hours. An ambidextrous on/off switch is easily reached by a user's support hand, and three modes are offered: momentary-on, constant-on and strobe. Each light is built with an impact-resistant polymer housing, and the light itself features a tempered-glass lens and an aluminum bezel. The housing itself is weatherproof, so users can be confident in the unit's operation, even in damp conditions. The light's quick-detach, thumb-screw rail clamp requires no tools for installation or removal.

Each Adaptive Tactical EX Performance Tactical Light Forend is made in the USA and retails at a suggested price of $129.99. Owners of the Maverick 88 must order a fore-end-slide assembly from Mossberg in order for the forearm to attach, though.