The shotgun named Umarex T4E TB 68 Gen2 is purpose-built for home defense. Thanks to its semi-automatic firing mode, more than sufficient shot capacity and quick-activation system, it will reliably deter any potential attacker from malicious behaviour.
Ammunition and semi-auto mode
It is designed to shoot rubber, pepper or marking balls in .68 calibre, with up to 16 shots fitting into the tube magazine under the barrel. There is no need to reload the shotgun between shots – just keep pulling the trigger. Due to the high number of internal moving parts required for the semi-automatic firing mode, the double-action trigger is quite heavy, which on the other hand helps prevent accidental discharge. There is also a push-button safety located directly in the trigger. To make cleaning easier or to clear jammed ammunition, there is a sliding door on the right side of the shotgun giving you direct access to the chamber.
Power source and quick-activation system
The shotgun is powered by one 12 g CO2 cartridge, which is inserted into the grip after unscrewing the valve. A gun prepared in this way can be stored indefinitely without the risk of damaging the O-rings. To activate it, simply strike the valve with the palm of your hand against the piercing pin, which punctures the cartridge and the gun is ready to fire. After activation, a so‑called indicator pops up above the grip to show that the shotgun is under pressure and ready to shoot. The manufacturer states that one 12 g cartridge is enough for 16 shots, i.e. for a full magazine.
Construction
The look of the TB 68 model is strongly inspired by one of the most iconic semi-automatic shotguns, the SPAS-12. The internal components are made of metal and then covered by a durable polymer body. A set of fixed metal sights is used for aiming, or you can mount a red dot sight on the top Picatinny rail. A second 22 mm rail is located on the left side of the fore-end and can be removed with two screws if needed. And if you want to equip the shotgun with a shoulder sling, it features two mounting points on the sides above the grip and one under the muzzle.
T4E 2nd Generation
Like other Umarex T4E 2nd Generation products, this model has received a new quick-activation valve for the CO2 cartridge. It no longer requires any tools to depressurise the gun. Other upgrades include an M22x1.5 thread at the muzzle, allowing you to replace the metal muzzle brake with a device such as the X-Tracer .68. The last change is a new grip texture for a more secure hold.
Maintenance
Since the gun is powered by CO2 cartridges, the rubber seals may gradually become brittle and crack due to the freezing carbon dioxide. You can prevent this by occasionally applying silicone oil 1) in spray form, simply spraying the internals, 2) applying a few drops of silicone oil to the neck of the inserted cartridge, or 3) using an oil cartridge (the easiest option). We also do not recommend leaving an activated cartridge in the gun longer than necessary. If you know you will not be shooting for a while, release the pressure by loosening the valve.