Finding the right Remington 870 barrel can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you're a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or simply enjoy target practice. This guide will help you navigate the market, understand your options, and make an informed purchase.
Understanding Remington 870 Barrel Variations
Remington 870 shotguns are incredibly versatile, largely due to the availability of a wide range of replacement barrels. These barrels differ in several key aspects:
1. Length:
Barrel length significantly impacts the shotgun's handling, recoil, and effectiveness at various ranges. Common lengths include:
- 20-inch: Ideal for home defense and close-quarters shooting, offering maneuverability and reduced recoil.
- 26-inch: A popular all-around length, providing a good balance of handling and range.
- 28-inch: Favored by hunters and target shooters for improved accuracy and range.
- Longer lengths (30 inches and up): Typically used for specialized purposes like trap or skeet shooting.
2. Gauge:
The gauge refers to the diameter of the barrel, determining the size of the shotshells it can fire. The most common gauges for the Remington 870 are:
- 12 Gauge: The most popular gauge, offering a balance of power and versatility.
- 20 Gauge: Lighter recoil makes it a popular choice for smaller shooters or those seeking reduced recoil.
Finding a barrel for your specific gauge is paramount; using an incorrect gauge barrel can damage your firearm.
3. Choke:
The choke is a constriction at the end of the barrel that controls the shot pattern. Different chokes are designed for various purposes:
- Cylinder Bore: A non-constricted choke, producing a wide shot pattern ideal for close-range shooting.
- Improved Cylinder (IC): A slightly constricted choke, offering a slightly tighter pattern than cylinder bore.
- Modified (Mod): A moderately constricted choke, suitable for various hunting situations and moderate ranges.
- Improved Modified (IM): A tighter pattern than Modified, good for longer ranges.
- Full (F): The tightest choke, providing the longest range and tightest pattern, suitable for long-range shooting or waterfowl hunting.
Many Remington 870 barrels are threaded to accept interchangeable choke tubes, allowing you to customize your shot pattern for different shooting scenarios.
4. Rifled vs. Smoothbore:
- Smoothbore barrels: The standard for Remington 870s, designed for shooting shot shells.
- Rifled barrels: These barrels have grooves that impart spin to slugs or sabots, increasing accuracy and range. Rifled barrels are ideal for hunting larger game at longer distances.
Where to Find Remington 870 Barrels for Sale
Remington 870 barrels are widely available from various sources:
- Online retailers: Many reputable online retailers specialize in firearms and accessories, offering a wide selection of barrels. Always verify the seller's legitimacy and read customer reviews.
- Gun stores: Local gun stores often have a selection of Remington 870 barrels in stock. They can offer expert advice and assist with fitting the barrel to your shotgun.
- Auction sites: While potentially offering competitive prices, auction sites require careful vetting of sellers and products to avoid counterfeit or damaged goods.
Tips for Buying a Remington 870 Barrel
- Verify compatibility: Ensure the barrel is compatible with your specific Remington 870 model. Different models may have slight variations in receiver dimensions and barrel threading.
- Inspect the barrel carefully: Before purchasing, check for any damage, dents, or rust.
- Check the manufacturer: Purchase barrels from reputable manufacturers to ensure quality and durability.
- Consider your needs: Choose a barrel length and choke that best suits your intended use.
Buying a Remington 870 barrel is an investment that can significantly enhance your shooting experience. By understanding the available options and following these tips, you can find the perfect barrel to meet your specific needs. Remember to always handle firearms responsibly and adhere to all local and federal laws.
