This year Fostech was at SHOT with their latest Origin-12 shotgun. Yes, it does indeed look like something straight out of a SyFy Channel made-for-TV movie (or well, Firefly).

Underneath the polymer dress and additions, what you see is essentially a Saiga or Vepr-12. However, these shotguns are made right here in the United States (in Columbus, Indiana) with enhanced controls built in right from the start. Gone is the traditional AK rock-n-lock magazine insertion, instead replaced with a flared AR-style magwell.

The selectors are ambidextrous, and unlike some AR-ish selectors on AK-ish rifles, it's “correct” (as in, you push forward on the selector to switch off safe). The bolt locks back upon empty, and there's a bolt lock/release you can easily manipulate with your firing hand.

Due to the wide variance in pressures of 12ga ammo (think about the differences between Walmart-bulk-pack 12ga birdshot and performance 12ga slugs) there's a gas regulator on the barrel. Also, the old right-side reciprocating charging handle has been replaced with a forward, non-reciprocating one.

The bolt of the Fostech Origin-12 is skeletonized and specialty weighted for performance.

There's also a folding stock mechanism standard. Something that certainly makes the Origin-12 a standout, aside from the unique aesthetics, is the ability to quick change the barrel. Pull a pin, pull it out, and lock the bolt to the rear and you end up with a very short package indeed.

Due to the nature of the gun, all magazines are proprietary. However, the cost of their box-type magazines (available in 5, 8, or 10 shell capacities) are on par with other American-made options for shotguns like the Saiga-12 and Vepr-12. Fostech also has 20 and 30 shell drums available, albeit it at a higher price point.

For more information, you can visit Fostech (a small, family-owned business) online here.

We’re starting 2016 out right — we’ll be showcasing worthy small American businesses all through the month of January. Capitalism is part of the foundation upon which our great republic stands, and small business is a vital part of that. Join us in recognizing and acknowledging that truth and supporting craftsmen and small businesses. Happily we have stumbled across  more than one here at SHOT Show 2016. Happy EntrepreNewYear.

Follow us on Instagram, @RECOILmagazine and keep an eye out for these hashtags: #recoilmagazine, #recoil, #shotshow2016, #mediadayattherange and especially #recoilSHOT2016.

We will updating the Constant Coverage article, well…constantly. Bookmark that here at this link.

What is the NSSF SHOT Show?

The NSSF SHOT Show (Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade Show) and Conference is an annual event held by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. Typically attended by thousands of people from all 50 states and over a hundred countries, it is (quite rightfully) described as the “…world's premier exposition of combined firearms, ammunition, law enforcement, cutlery, outdoor apparel, optics, and related products and services.

Imagine the Worlds' Fair, but packed with everything from mini-guns and every breed of body armor, bows and boots; from eye pro and ear pro to optics and ordnance, socks to swords…you get the idea. If you'd like to see a sampling of the companies who will be showing at this year's SHOT, there's a live map right here, though it doesn't reflect the organizations set up elsewhere, in hotel suites, etc

View imagery from our coverage of last year's SHOT Show right here.

2016 SHOT Show

January 18 — Media on the Range (numerous shooting facilities in and around Las Vegas)
January 19–22, 2016
Sands Expo and Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada
Hours:
Tuesday, January 19 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, January 20 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 21 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Friday, January 22 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

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