The Fabarm L4S Allsport RS is a fresh addition to the world of semi-automatic shotguns, aiming to carve out a space for itself in the mid-tier market. As shooters explore the myriad options available, the L4S Allsport RS presents itself as a compelling choice, particularly for those who engage in multiple clay target disciplines such as trap, skeet, and sporting clays. But can one shotgun truly excel across all these disciplines? This question looms large as we delve into what the L4S Allsport RS has to offer.
A Shotgun Designed for Versatility
The L4S Allsport RS was conceptualized as an all-in-one
solution for clay target shooters. The challenge of designing a shotgun that
can handle the varied demands of trap, skeet, and sporting clays is no small
feat. Each discipline has its own unique requirements, from the precise
accuracy needed in trap shooting to the rapid target acquisition demanded in
skeet, and the diverse target presentations encountered in sporting clays.
Fabarm’s approach with the L4S Allsport RS was to create a
shotgun that offers adaptability without compromising on performance. The key
feature that stands out in this regard is the Quick Release Rib (Q.R.R) System.
This system includes two ribs—one set at a 50/50 point of impact (POI) and the
other at a 65/35 POI—allowing shooters to easily switch between the two
depending on the discipline. This versatility is further enhanced by the
adjustable comb, which can be rotated in all angles, ensuring that shooters can
fine-tune the fit to their individual needs.
Photo Credit: FABARM USA, LLC
The Technical Breakdown
For those who appreciate the technical aspects of their firearms, the L4S Allsport RS doesn’t disappoint. It comes equipped with a 12-gauge, 30-inch barrel, and a stainless steel piston gas-operated system. The TRIBORE HP™ barrel technology is designed to optimize shot patterns, enhancing accuracy and consistency. The barrel length and rib system ensure that the shotgun can be fine-tuned to suit various shooting disciplines, while the five EXIS HP Competition Choke Tubes provide further customization options.
The stock is made from semi-deluxe European walnut, featuring a matte, hand-oiled finish that not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also provides a comfortable and ergonomic grip. The Monte Carlo-style stock helps to properly align the shooter’s eye with the elevated rib, promoting a more upright shooting posture, which can reduce fatigue during long shooting sessions.
At an average weight of 7lbs 13oz, the L4S Allsport RS is
well-balanced, providing enough heft to manage recoil effectively while still
being light enough for quick target transitions. The shotgun also comes with a
five-year warranty, with service provided in the USA, ensuring that shooters
have the support they need to keep their firearm in top condition.
Comparing the L4S Allsport RS with Its Siblings
When evaluating the L4S Allsport RS, it's important to consider how it stacks up against other models in the Fabarm lineup. The L4S Sporting and the XLR5 Velocity AR are two such models that cater to similar markets but with different approaches.
Photo Credit: FABARM USA, LLC
The L4S Sporting is a more straightforward option,
featuring a fixed rib set at 50/50 POI and a fixed, non-adjustable stock.
Priced at a base MSRP of $2,350, it offers a solid performance for shooters who
prefer simplicity and reliability. However, its lack of adjustability might be
a limitation for those looking to tailor their shotgun to different shooting
styles.
Photo Credit: FABARM USA, LLC
On the other end of the spectrum is the XLR5 Velocity AR.
This model is a feature-rich shotgun that leaves little to be desired. With an
adjustable rib that can range from 50/50 POI to 90/10 POI, an adjustable
trigger, and a kinetic recoil reducer included, the XLR5 Velocity AR is
designed for shooters who demand the utmost in customization. However, these
features come at a steep price, with a base MSRP of $4,100.
The Clay Lab Network Articles is Brought to You by
Positioned between these two models, the L4S Allsport RS
offers a balanced mix of features at a more accessible price point. With a base
MSRP of $2,750, it provides an impressive array of features, such as the Q.R.R.
System and the adjustable comb, making it a versatile option for shooters who
want a shotgun that can adapt to different disciplines. The L4S Allsport RS may
not have the extensive adjustability of the XLR5 Velocity AR, but it offers
enough flexibility to make it a strong contender in its price range.
Photo Credit: FABARM USA, LLC
The Market Position
The introduction of the L4S Allsport RS in early 2024, followed by its first shipment from Italy to the US in July, marks an exciting development in the semi-automatic shotgun market. Fabarm chose to debut this model at the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) National Championships in Ohio, a fitting venue given the shotgun’s design focus on versatility across multiple disciplines.
The SCTP National Championships provided an ideal platform to showcase the L4S Allsport RS to a diverse audience of young shooters and coaches. The opportunity to test the shotgun in a competitive environment gave participants a firsthand look at its capabilities. Feedback from this event has been largely positive, with many noting the shotgun’s adaptability and value for money.
However, the market for mid-tier semi-automatic shotguns is
highly competitive, with several other brands offering compelling options. The
L4S Allsport RS enters this market with a strong value proposition, but it will
need to prove itself against established competitors. Shooters looking for a
shotgun that can perform across multiple disciplines will find the L4S Allsport
RS to be a versatile and well-rounded option. Yet, the question remains—can one
shotgun truly excel in all aspects of clay target shooting?
The All-In-One Shotgun: Myth or Reality?
The idea of an all-in-one shotgun is undoubtedly appealing. The convenience of owning a single firearm that can handle multiple disciplines is a strong selling point, especially for shooters who participate in a variety of events. However, the reality is that each clay target discipline places different demands on the shooter and the equipment.
Trap shooting, for example, typically requires a shotgun with a higher POI to compensate for the rising target, whereas sporting clays often demand a more versatile setup that can handle a wide range of target presentations. Skeet shooting, with its fast-moving targets crossing at close range, benefits from a shotgun that allows for quick target acquisition and a flat POI.
The L4S Allsport RS attempts to bridge these gaps with its
adjustable rib system and comb, offering shooters the flexibility to configure
the shotgun according to the discipline at hand. While it may not be the
perfect solution for every shooter, it provides a level of versatility that is
hard to find in other models within its price range.
Photo Credit: FABARM USA, LLC
Conclusion: A Worthy Contender
In conclusion, the Fabarm L4S Allsport RS is a thoughtfully designed semi-automatic shotgun that aims to meet the needs of multi-discipline clay target shooters. It strikes a balance between affordability and features, making it an attractive option for those who want a shotgun that can do it all without breaking the bank.
While it may not offer the extreme levels of customization found in higher-end models like the XLR5 Velocity AR, the L4S Allsport RS provides enough adjustability and versatility to satisfy most shooters. Its introduction at the SCTP National Championships in Ohio has already generated interest, and it’s likely to become a popular choice among shooters who value adaptability and performance.
Ultimately, whether the L4S Allsport RS is the right choice
for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a
shotgun that offers a solid mix of features at a mid-tier price, the L4S
Allsport RS is certainly worth considering. However, if you’re a specialist in
a particular discipline, you may still find that a more focused,
discipline-specific shotgun better suits your needs. The L4S Allsport RS
doesn’t claim to be perfect for everyone, but for those who need a reliable, versatile
shotgun that can handle a variety of clay target sports, it’s a heck of a lot
of gun for the money.
