A Custom Build That Honors Wilson Combat’s Legacy

In the world of firearms, Wilson Combat is synonymous with excellence, precision, and craftsmanship. Known for producing high-quality handguns and rifles, Wilson Combat once ventured into the shotgun market, crafting highly customized, refined Remington 870 shotguns. Though they no longer manufacture shotguns, their limited run remains prized by collectors and enthusiasts. Among their lineup, the Wilson Combat Professional model stands out, representing a pinnacle of expert craftsmanship applied to an already legendary platform.

The Base: Wilson Combat’s Refined Remington 870

At the core of this build lies the Remington 870, a shotgun known for its reliability and time-tested design. Remington’s 870 has served everyone from law enforcement to hunters, but Wilson Combat took this classic and elevated it to another level.

The Wilson Combat Professional model featured a short 14-inch barrel, perfect for tactical operations, home defense, or law enforcement work. Its compact size offers excellent maneuverability, allowing for swift movement in tight environments. However, Wilson Combat didn’t simply alter the dimensions—they fine-tuned the mechanics. Their expert gunsmiths smoothed out the action, refined the trigger, and polished the bolt for one of the slickest, most refined shooting experiences you can find in an 870.

Tactical Enhancements for Superior Performance

Wilson Combat went beyond just refinement; they equipped the Professional model with a range of tactical upgrades. One key feature is the side saddle, a shell holder mounted on the receiver for easy access to extra rounds. This accessory allows for quicker reloads, ensuring you can stay in the fight without missing a beat.

Additionally, the shotgun comes fitted with adjustable Ghost ring sights, offering superior target acquisition in both high-stress situations and precision shooting. These durable sights give you a clear and accurate sight picture, enhancing the overall versatility of the firearm.

Adding WOOX Gladiatore Furniture: Elevating Form and Function

To complement the craftsmanship of the Wilson Combat Professional, I decided to upgrade the shotgun with the WOOX Gladiatore furniture set. The Gladiatore line is known for its Italian design, precision engineering, and the use of premium American walnut—a perfect match for the high standards of this custom build.

The WOOX Gladiatore stock and forend bring a unique blend of modern functionality and traditional craftsmanship to the shotgun. The rich walnut wood not only enhances the aesthetics, but its ergonomic design provides a comfortable, intuitive grip, making handling even more fluid and precise. The aggressive checkering on the forend and stock ensures a solid, non-slip grip, essential for maintaining control in fast-paced scenarios.

Beyond looks, the Gladiatore stock includes practical features like a raised cheek comb, which provides a more natural sight alignment with the Ghost ring sights, and dual M-LOK rails for mounting accessories such as flashlights or lasers. Additionally, the QD sling attachment allows for versatile carry options, enhancing its tactical versatility. Together, the WOOX Gladiatore set perfectly complements the Wilson Combat Professional’s sleek, tactical aesthetic while significantly improving comfort and performance.

Going Quiet: The SilencerCo Salvo-12 Shotgun Suppressor

Of course, in keeping with the theme of high performance, I also equipped this shotgun with a SilencerCo Salvo-12 suppressor. This shotgun silencer is one of the few on the market, offering modularity and adaptability depending on your desired level of suppression.

The Salvo-12 suppressor not only reduces sound but also diminishes recoil, making follow-up shots quicker and more controlled. Paired with the smooth action of the Wilson Combat Professional, this setup becomes the perfect tool for quiet, tactical engagements or discreet range sessions. It offers an unrivaled balance of power, control, and stealth.

The Complete Build: A Testament to Tactical Excellence

I’ve only recently assembled this build with the WOOX Gladiatore furniture, but it’s already clear that the result is nothing short of extraordinary. The Wilson Combat Professional, known for its refined action and tactical enhancements, is now elevated even further by the addition of the Gladiatore set and the Salvo-12 suppressor.

Every element of this shotgun build, from its silky-smooth action to the handcrafted beauty of the WOOX walnut furniture, works together harmoniously. The result is a custom shotgun that not only performs exceptionally but also looks and feels like a masterpiece of firearm craftsmanship.

Though Wilson Combat no longer produces shotguns, this build pays homage to their legacy while incorporating modern innovations like the WOOX Gladiatore furniture and Salvo-12 suppressor. It stands as a testament to the combination of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.

If you’re ever fortunate enough to get your hands on a Wilson Combat Professional, especially with WOOX’s premium Gladiatore furniture, you’ll experience a shotgun that offers the best of both worlds: a blend of tactical prowess and artisanal elegance.

Tim Potter, Alabama Arsenal 205-960-6810