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| Masterkey | |
|---|---|
 Masterkey shotgun mounted on an M4A1 carbine | |
| Type | Shotgun |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 2.6 kg (5.7 lb) |
| Length | 43.2 cm (17.0 in) |
| Barrel length | 25.4 cm (10.0 in) |
| Cartridge | 12 gauge |
| Action | Pump action |
| Effective firing range | 50 m (160 ft) |
| Feed system | 3+1 rounds, internaltubular magazine |
TheMasterkey is adoor breachingshotgun system manufactured byKnight's Armament Company.
The Masterkey project was initiated during the 1980s to provideassault rifles with a potent built-in door breaching tool. Individual soldiers were often forced to carry a breaching shotgun in addition to their standard-issue rifle, but the Masterkey removes this need. The system consists of a shortenedRemington 87012 gaugepump-action intended to be mounted under a firearm's barrel, similarly to theM203 grenade launcher. It has a 3-round internal tubular magazine and can carry an additional round in the chamber, for a total of 4 rounds.
The shotgun can only be awkwardly operated independently because it has no grip behind the trigger—when firing the Masterkey, the rifle's magazine must be used as a makeshift pistol grip. Independent stocks and grips for the 870 are available for use, but they are incompatible with the M16 barrel mount. KAC makes an independent stock for the Masterkey that also can be used with theM203 grenade launcher.
The Masterkey inspired theM26 Modular Accessory Shotgun System, an attachable shotgun in use with theUnited States Army. The M26 was chosen by the Army over the Masterkey as a breaching tool.[1]
The weapon is named "Masterkey" in reference to its ability to "unlock" virtually any standard lock.
