The Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge: A Review After Real Use
The Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge isn’t the flashiest piece of gear, but it’s a critical tool for responsible firearm ownership and effective training. These aren’t live rounds, but rather precision-machined aluminum replicas designed to safely practice loading, unloading, and dry-firing your 12-gauge shotgun. Strike Industries has built a reputation for quality and innovation, and these dummy rounds are no exception. The bright blue anodized finish and the TPU primer pocket are standout features indicating both safety and thoughtful design.
I’m a firm believer in consistent practice, and dry-firing is a vital part of that. The problem? Constant dry-firing without proper protection can damage a shotgun’s firing pin. I was searching for a durable, reliable snap cap that would protect my firearm while accurately simulating the weight and feel of a live 12-gauge shell.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality. The Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge feels substantial in hand, and the machining is clean and precise. The blue anodizing is vibrant and unmistakable, making it easy to differentiate from live ammunition.
I considered other options like A-Zoom snap caps and even some cheaper, no-name brands. However, the Strike Industries offering appealed to me because of the combination of aluminum construction for durability and the TPU primer pocket designed to protect the firing pin. This design felt like a smart balance of longevity and firearm safety. My initial reaction was excitement – finally, a tool to practice safely and effectively.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge was at my home, focusing on dry-fire drills and practicing different loading techniques with my Mossberg 500. I ran through various drills, practicing everything from quickly loading two shells from the side saddle to performing malfunction clearances. The dummy rounds fed smoothly from the magazine tube and ejected without issue.
I also tested them in my older Remington 870. The weather was dry, and the temperature was moderate (around 70°F). The dummy rounds performed flawlessly in both shotguns. There was no noticeable difference in feel between loading and ejecting these dummy rounds versus live shells, which is crucial for realistic training.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use (2-3 times per week), the Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge has held up exceptionally well. There are minimal signs of wear on the aluminum bodies, and the TPU primer pockets still appear to be in excellent condition. I carefully inspect them after each use, looking for any deformation or cracking in the primer pocket material.
Maintaining them is simple: I wipe them down with a clean cloth after each session to remove any dust or debris. They seem far more durable than the plastic snap caps I’ve used in the past. Compared to those, the Strike Industries dummy rounds offer a superior feel and significantly more peace of mind, knowing my firing pin is well-protected.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge
Specifications
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Manufacturer: Strike Industries.
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Caliber: 12 Gauge.
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Material: Billet Aluminum with TPU Primer Pocket.
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Quantity: 2 per pack.
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Color: Blue Anodized.
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Length: 2.25 inches.
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Additional Feature: TPU primer pocket to prevent damage to internals.
The aluminum construction provides a realistic weight and feel, while the bright blue color prevents accidental confusion with live ammunition. The TPU primer pocket is a critical safety feature, absorbing the impact of the firing pin and preventing damage to the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge performs its job perfectly: protecting the firing pin during dry-fire practice and simulating the loading and ejection of live rounds. It handles and feels just like a live round, making my training as realistic as possible. The TPU primer pocket has held up wonderfully, showing no signs of significant wear after numerous dry-firing sessions.
There is nothing that needs improvement; these dummy rounds function exactly as intended. These dummy rounds have exceeded my expectations, providing a safe and reliable training tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge is constructed from solid billet aluminum, making them durable and weighty. They are comfortable to handle, and the smooth finish prevents any snagging during loading or unloading. The bright blue anodized finish is also a nice touch, immediately indicating that these are dummy rounds.
The design is simple and functional. There is virtually no learning curve – they are designed to be used just like live ammunition, and they perform accordingly.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the aluminum construction and the TPU primer pocket, these dummy rounds are built to last. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe down after each use. I anticipate these lasting for years, providing excellent value for the investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge doesn’t require any accessories. These dummy rounds are meant to be used as is. They are compatible with any standard 12-gauge shotgun, making them universally useful for training purposes.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge
Pros
- Excellent firing pin protection due to the durable TPU primer pocket.
- Durable aluminum construction for long-lasting use.
- Realistic weight and feel for effective training simulations.
- Bright blue anodized finish for clear differentiation from live ammo, improving safety.
- Smooth feeding and ejection ensuring reliable function in various shotguns.
Cons
- The price is slightly higher than some plastic snap caps, but the superior durability justifies the cost.
- Only comes in packs of two, requiring purchase of multiple packs for extensive training.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge?
The Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge is perfect for shotgun owners who prioritize safety and effective training. Whether you are a hunter, sport shooter, or simply a responsible gun owner, these dummy rounds are an essential tool for practicing loading, unloading, and dry-firing. Anyone looking to improve their firearm handling skills without the risk of damaging their shotgun will benefit greatly.
Those who strictly prefer budget-friendly, disposable snap caps might want to explore cheaper alternatives. However, the long-term cost savings and superior protection offered by the Strike Industries dummy rounds make them a worthwhile investment. No must-have accessories are needed.
Conclusion on Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge
The Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge is a top-tier training tool that delivers on its promises. The combination of durable aluminum construction, reliable TPU primer pocket, and realistic feel makes it an invaluable addition to any shotgun owner’s kit. While the price may be slightly higher than some alternatives, the superior durability and protection offered justify the cost.
The price is definitely justified based on the product’s durability and function. I would absolutely recommend the Strike Industries Aluminum Dummy Round 12 Gauge to anyone serious about firearm safety and effective training. Invest in your skills and protect your firearm – grab a set of these dummy rounds and start practicing safely today!
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