Alofs Repeating Shotgun: If It Works It Isn't Stupid
From the mid-1920s onward, inventive marksman and handyman Herman Gerrit Alofs captivated firearm enthusiasts with a unique contraption designed to transform single-shot break action shotguns into repeaters.
This mechanism, now famously known as the Alofs repeating Shotgun, bolted onto the side of an ordinary single-shot, offering shooters a 4+1 capacity at a fraction of the cost of a pump action. Below, we’ll explore the fascinating origins, functionality, and enduring legacy of this pioneering device.
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A Bold Concept from a Creative Mind
Herman Alofs was born in East Saugatuck, Michigan, on May 17, 1903. A descendant of Dutch emigrants, he developed a knack for tinkering and engineering. His big idea? A patent titled simply “Firearm” (U.S. Patent 1,507,881) granted in 1924. This design, later marketed as the Alofs Reloading Magazine, formed the basis for the Alofs repeating Shotgun.
Seeing potential in his invention, Alofs moved to Grand Rapids and founded the Alofs Manufacturing Company. By 1926, ads for his innovative magazine appeared in Iver Johnson catalogs, selling for $6. Although the product was promoted in 12, 16, 20, and .410 gauges, actual surviving examples appear only in 12 gauge.
An Ingenious Solution for Extra Rounds
The heart of the Alofs repeating Shotgun kit was a tubular magazine that ran parallel to the barrel. A simple yet sturdy mechanism allowed for four total shells in the magazine—three in a stationary tube and one in a rotating section—plus a single shell already in the chamber. Upon firing, the shotgun’s ejector expelled the spent shell, releasing the rotating magazine so a fresh round could swing neatly into place. Users only needed to open and close the break action in a seamless, rapid motion.
Because it required a break action shotgun with an ejector, not every single-shot gun fit this design. However, when installed correctly, it worked astonishingly well. For shooters on a budget, the Alofs system delivered near pump-action functionality at half the cost.
Short Production Run, Long-Lasting Curiosity
Production of the Alofs Reloading Magazine was relatively short-lived. Alofs Manufacturing Company eventually branched out into other metal products, including clothes hangers and, later, vital defense items during World War II. Post-war, the company thrived on manufacturing seat belts under the brand names LYFE-LOK and LYFE-BELT, but the Alofs repeating Shotgun unit was no longer in production.
Despite its modest commercial success, the Alofs device remains a sought-after collector’s piece today. Examples occasionally surface at auctions, typically selling in the $500 to $1,000 range—with the shotgun included. Though overshadowed by genuine pump actions, the Alofs system retains the interest of firearms enthusiasts enthralled by its mechanical ingenuity.
Modern Mentions and Adaptations
Interest in the Alofs repeating Shotgun continues. The horror extraction shooter Hunt: Showdown 1986 by Crytek features the Alofs device in game. Accurately animating it’s reloading process.
Moreover, modern-day interest in creative shotgun configurations has led to a new iteration from Tactical Imports, the Ausluf. It is currently offered in 20-inch and 13-inch versions in black or satin nickel finishes. Buyers can also choose between wood or synthetic stocks and add adapters for mini shells, blending Alofs’ original concept with contemporary styling. However, the Ausluf improves on the design and features a longer magazine, holding up to 7+1+1 or 4+1+1 shells.
For those that would like to see it in action there’s an excellent video from C&Rsenal and TAOFLEDERMAUS that you can watch below.
