The follower and spring work together to push shells forward and present them consistently to the elevator. A follower that tilts under recoil causes jams. A spring that has lost tension causes inconsistent shell presentation and feeding failures — usually at the worst time. These are the most overlooked components on any shotgun, but they directly control feeding reliability. We carry followers and springs for the most common platforms — Remington 870, Mossberg 500/590, Benelli, Beretta, and more — selected for correct fitment and reliable function.
FAQ
How do I know if my shotgun spring needs replacing?
Springs lose tension over time, particularly under compression. If you experience feeding issues, slow shell presentation, or shells that fail to load into the chamber consistently, a worn spring is a likely cause. As a general rule, replace the spring any time you add a magazine extension, and inspect it annually on a gun used regularly for defense.
What makes an aftermarket follower better than the factory one?
The factory followers on many shotguns — particularly the Remington 870 — are known to tilt under recoil, which causes jams. Aftermarket followers are typically a single-piece design in a bright, high-visibility color that makes it easy to confirm the chamber is empty. They are designed to track straighter through the tube and feed more consistently.
Do I need to replace my spring when I add a magazine extension?
Yes, always. The factory spring is sized for the factory tube length. Adding tube length without a longer spring causes the follower to run out of spring tension before it reaches the end of the tube — which leads to feeding failures on the last shell or two. Most extension kits include the correct spring; if ordering a tube only, get the spring separately.
Are followers and springs platform-specific?
Yes. The follower must match your magazine tube's inner diameter and thread pattern. A Remington 870 follower will not fit a Mossberg 500, and vice versa. Springs are also sized specifically for each platform and tube length. Always confirm the part is listed for your specific shotgun model before ordering.