The magazine tubes are loaded by bringing each tube to an upward angle, exposing the open rear breech of each tube. Shells are then deposited into the spring-loaded tubes as needed. The magazine tubes are then set down once again over barrel until locked in place, ready for the slide action to come into play. Spent shell casings are safely ejected downwards out of the bottom of the buttstock and actuated by the pump-action slide operation. Visual cues to the operator on how many remaining shells are in each magazine tube are provided for by way of open slots. The operator can always access the magazine tubes when needed, this accomplished by activating the slide lock, pushing the slide forwards and raising the magazine tubes. The action provides clear access to either tube for reloading, maintenance or cleaning.
The weapon weighs in at just 3.9 kilograms (8lbs, 10oz) and features a 690mm running length. It is available in two barrel lengths measuring either 18 inches or 22 inches (the 18-inch barrel length limits the ammunition count to a "five-and-five" plus one shell in the firing chamber). Compared to conventional shotgun systems, the NeoStead 2000 enjoys a rather compact profile and construction includes heavy duty polymers.
For all its inherently good qualities, the NeoStead 2000 has yet to make a definitive impact on the world firearms market. Regardless, it is an interesting weapon that may come into its own soon enough, particularly for those parties needing hefty firepower in close-quarters ranges. Such parties may include riot police and home defense customers in the short term.
The British special forces group SAS ("Special Air Service") is known to have trialed the NeoStead 2000 for a time. Early production forms were noted for not having any manufacturer markings, latter ones found with the "Truvelo Manufacturers" logo on the receiver.
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