Today, let’s delve into the sphere of cost-effective semi-automatic shotguns and explore the Pointer Field Tek 4. This 12-gauge shotgun, priced under $400, challenges the notion that quality firearms come with a hefty price tag.
We’ll investigate whether the Pointer Field Tek 4 can deliver a satisfying shooting performance without breaking the bank.
Features and Technical Specifications
Before we get hands-on with the Pointer Field Tek 4, let’s dissect its technical details:
- The suggested retail price at the time of this overview was $499, however, market searches reveal it can be snagged for less than $400;
- Designed for versatile hunting needs, it comes in various standard and camouflaged finishes;
- Available in a semi-automatic gas-operated design, with options for 12-gauge, 20-gauge, and 28-gauge;
- Imported by Legacy Sports International;
- Equipped with five extended choke tubes, we opted to switch one out for a Carlson’s Choke Tube for testing;
- Features a 3.5-inch chamber and a 28-inch barrel;
- The shotgun’s weight is around 7 pounds 3 ounces;
- Trigger pull length is 14 1/8 inches and is fixed, not adjustable;
- Limited size information was provided by the manufacturer, but our estimates put the drop at around 3/4 to 1 inch.
The package does not include spacers or shims.
Handling and Ergonomic Design
Our initial impressions of the Pointer Field Tek 4’s trigger indicated it was on the firmer side. It required a considerable amount of force, which could slow down rapid firing:
- With practice, we found it slightly awkward and needed a hefty pull to discharge. The average trigger weight came in at 9 pounds 3.2 ounces, suggesting a rather strong trigger pull;
- Ergonomically, the shotgun sports a Cerekoted finish, adding a distinct touch to this budget-friendly piece. The furniture is made from standard composite material with a camouflage pattern. Regrettably, none of the controls were oversized, and the bolt release was notably stiff. The bolt frame has a pronounced sharpness, calling for careful handling;
- The butt pad is a standard hard rubber, which some users might want to upgrade for better comfort. The barrel is bronzed with a flat ventilated rib and a front fiber optic sight. The grip span on the barrel might feel broad, potentially causing an awkward fit for some shooters, while the forearm grip, albeit slightly on the slim side, remains satisfactory for its price point.
Safety is ensured by a fundamental safety mechanism featuring a horizontal pin positioned behind the trigger. The shotgun’s balance is shifted forward, and the bolt release is inconveniently situated and also challenging to operate. All in all, despite its affordability, the Pointer Field Tek 4 is an eye-catching shotgun that has some ergonomic issues to consider.
Recoil and Reliability
In the arena of kickback and dependability, the Pointer Field Tek 4 flaunts its strengths. The shotgun’s reliability earns commendation as it flawlessly fired off a full box of Federal Top Gun target loads and another box of Federal Black Cloud waterfowl rounds. The recoil, while noticeable, was manageable.
A complication arose after extensive shooting – the separation of the stock from the receiver. This isn’t an anomaly among shotguns but it’s a point worth noting. Fortunately, tightening access to the stock bolt proved straightforward. In sum, this shotgun showed itself to be reliable and controllable with its recoil, positioning it as a robust competitor for those seeking a practical and cost-effective option.
Disassembly and Build Quality
The initial enthusiasm for the shotgun’s recoil and reliability wanes a bit when it comes to disassembly. Despite the affordable price point, the shotgun is riddled with numerous moving parts, making the internal mechanics somewhat convoluted. Particularly, removing the bolt handle was a challenge, and precision was essential when reassembling to ensure the gas system operated correctly.
Speed Shooting
As anticipated, the stiff trigger made rapid firing a challenge. Achieving a smooth rhythm while firing proved difficult. Attempting to hit three hand-thrown clays, we clocked in at 1.44 seconds, which is far from record-breaking:
- During a standard rapid-fire test without clays, our times were around 0.20 seconds apart. It became clear that the trigger was a limiting factor in improving firing results;
- Overall, the Pointer Field Tek 4 is a budget-friendly shotgun with a decent finish and a unique Cerekoted coating, which in itself might sway some buyers at the $400 price point. The real highlight of this shotgun is its recoil management and reliability; it handles various loads with ease.
If you’re an occasional hunter looking for a dependable firearm to traverse challenging terrains, the Pointer Field Tek 4 is a suitable option. Be prepared, though, to invest time in disassembling and cleaning, as it contains several intricate moving parts that are somewhat challenging to manage.
Conclusion
The Pointer Field Tek 4 is a budget-friendly semi-automatic shotgun with a mix of attributes. While it’s an economical choice, it does come with its share of ergonomic challenges and a complex internal structure. The stiffness of the trigger could limit its shooting prowess, yet its reliability and controllable recoil make it a solid companion for those in search of a cost-effective and functional hunting partner.
The Pointer Field Tek 4 stands as a versatile pick for hunters who venture out into the field a few times yearly and require a shotgun that can withstand tough handling. Taking into account the unique Cerekoted finish and its affordability, this shotgun emerges as an attractive option for those on a tight budget. However, potential buyers should be aware of the intricacies involved in its disassembly and the need for occasional tightening of the stock. Ultimately, for the price, it serves as a decent entry-level shotgun or a backup piece for seasoned hunters.