Charles Daly AR-12S — 5-Round 12 Gauge Shotgun Upper (Honcho / N4S / AR-12S), Black Steel (Model 470073 / UPC 053800940580)
Convert your AR-style platform into a hard-hitting 12-gauge workhorse with the Charles Daly AR-12S upper — a purpose-built, compact, and rugged solution for shooters who want the speed and ergonomics of an AR with the stopping power of 12 gauge. The AR-12S (Honcho / N4S / AR-12S) delivers a reliable 5-round capacity in a black-finished steel assembly designed for durability, simple operation, and straightforward adaptability across compatible lowers. Whether you’re building a truck gun, setting up for home defense, or adding a versatile shotgun option to your training arsenal, the Charles Daly AR-12S offers performance and presence where it counts.
Overview — What this upper does
The Charles Daly AR-12S Model 470073 is an AR-pattern upper receiver assembly chambered in 12 gauge with a 5-round magazine capacity. Finished in matte black steel for resilience and low profile, the AR-12S fits AR lower receivers configured to accept the Charles Daly Honcho/N4S upper interface (verify compatibility). It’s engineered to deliver dependable shotshell feeding, fast follow-up shots, and simplified transition for shooters already familiar with AR ergonomics.
Key Features & Benefits
Caliber / Gauge: 12 Gauge — versatile, widely available, and effective for short-range defensive and utility roles.
Capacity: 5 rounds — balances legal/regulatory considerations with practical field use.
Construction: Robust black steel receiver and barrel components for strength, longevity, and a tactical aesthetic.
Model / Fitment: Charles Daly AR-12S (Honcho / N4S / AR-12S) — designed to mate with compatible AR-pattern lowers (confirm fit before purchase).
Rapid Transition: Keeps AR controls, cheek weld, and manual of arms unchanged for fast operator familiarity.
Compact Profile: Shorter overall length than many full-size shotguns, ideal for vehicle, home, or close-quarter applications.
Durable Finish: Matte black surface treatment resists corrosion, reduces glare, and blends with modern furniture and accessories.
Practical Utility: Suited for home defense, truck/vehicle setups, ranch/utility work, and training where shotshell familiarity is beneficial.
UPC: 053800940580 — easy cataloging for dealers and buyers.
Performance & Use Cases
The AR-12S excels when you need fast, instinctive performance at close ranges. Its 12 gauge chambering provides significant terminal energy for defensive scenarios or close-range small game, while the AR-style platform preserves sling mounting options, optic compatibility, and familiar ergonomics. Typical use cases include:
Home defense: Shorter length of pull and compact handling make maneuvering in tight spaces more intuitive.
Truck/vehicle shotgun: Quickly accessible and stowable in tactical racks or vehicle mounts.
Training & transition: Great for shooters who want to practice shotshell routines using AR controls.
Ranch/farm utility: Effective for pest control, predator deterrence, and general property protection.
Recreational use: Fun and practical for patterning and short-range shooting sessions at the range.
Fitment & Compatibility Notes
Lower Receiver Compatibility: The AR-12S is intended for use with AR-pattern lowers that accept Charles Daly Honcho/N4S style uppers or equivalent interfaces. Always confirm mechanical fit and intended use with the lower manufacturer or an armorer.
Magazine & Feeding: Use magazines and shells recommended by Charles Daly. Performance can vary by shell length (e.g., 2¾" vs 3"), payload type (shot vs slug), and magazine brand. Test your specific ammunition before relying on any configuration.
Optics & Accessories: Many AR-12S uppers include Picatinny rail sections or allow attachment of optics, lights, and sights — verify specific accessory mounting options for your unit.
Installation & Basic Care (High-Level)
Installation: Typically a straightforward fit to a compatible AR lower. Use standard armorer tools and follow torque specs where provided. If uncertain, have a qualified gunsmith install and inspect the assembly.
Cleaning: Shotshell residue can be sootier than rifle powder — clean the chamber and bore after shooting sessions. Use solvent and brushes rated for 12 gauge and inspect locking surfaces and ejector/extractor components regularly.
Maintenance: Periodically check fasteners, rails, and finishes for wear; lubricate moving parts per manufacturer guidance.
Note: This description provides high-level guidance only. Avoid detailed instructions that could facilitate unsafe modification. When in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s manual or a certified armorer.
Safety & Legal Considerations
Legal Compliance: Local and state laws govern shotgun configurations, magazine capacities, and AR-style firearm components. Verify legal status of the AR-12S configuration where you live or travel.
Safe Handling: Always follow fundamental firearm safety rules: treat as loaded, keep finger off the trigger until ready to fire, point in a safe direction, and ensure proper storage.
Use Appropriate Ammunition: Use only manufacturer-recommended shotshells and magazines. Improper ammunition can damage the firearm or cause injury.
Technical Specifications (Quick Reference)
Manufacturer: Charles Daly
Model: AR-12S / Honcho / N4S (Model 470073)
UPC: 053800940580
Caliber / Gauge: 12 Gauge
Capacity: 5 rounds
Material: Steel (black finish)
Style: AR-pattern upper receiver assembly
Finish: Matte Black
Intended Use: Home defense, truck/vehicle gun, training, utility
Why Choose the Charles Daly AR-12S?
Proven Brand: Charles Daly delivers decades of experience in firearms manufacturing, with a reputation for rugged, affordable solutions.
Form & Function: Combines the ergonomic familiarity of the AR platform with the tactical utility of 12 gauge shotshells.
Compact & Practical: Shorter overall length and AR controls make it a versatile option for close-quarters and vehicle applications.
Ready for Work: Built from steel with a durable finish to stand up to real-world use and storage conditions.
SEO-Friendly Summary
The Charles Daly AR-12S (Model 470073, UPC 053800940580) is a 5-round 12 gauge AR-pattern shotgun upper (Honcho / N4S compatible) constructed from black steel. Ideal for home defense, truck guns, and tactical training, the AR-12S provides AR ergonomics with shotshell power in a compact, durable package. Verify lower compatibility and local laws before purchase.
Add shotshell capability to your AR platform without sacrificing the controls, balance, or handling you already trust — the Charles Daly AR-12S offers rugged construction, practical capacity, and straightforward utility for shooters who want a compact 12-gauge solution.
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