The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. While it's often associated with bird hunting and home defense with birdshot, its adaptability extends to slug shooting, making it a formidable option for hunting larger game. This guide dives deep into choosing the right 870 slug barrel with scope mount, equipping you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and maximize your shooting performance.
Understanding 870 Slug Barrels
Before diving into scope mounts, let's clarify the different types of 870 slug barrels available:
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Rifled Barrels: These barrels have grooves cut into the interior, imparting spin to the slug for greater accuracy and range. This is crucial for hunting at longer distances. Rifled barrels are the preferred choice for most slug gun applications.
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Smoothbore Barrels: While some shooters use smoothbore barrels with sabot slugs (which add rifling), the accuracy is generally lower compared to a dedicated rifled barrel. Smoothbore barrels are better suited for close-range shooting with slugs.
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Barrel Length: Barrel length influences accuracy and recoil. Longer barrels (20-28 inches) generally offer better accuracy due to increased sight radius and potentially higher velocity. Shorter barrels are lighter and easier to handle, ideal for maneuverability in thick brush. Consider your hunting environment when deciding on barrel length.
The Importance of a Scope Mount for Slug Guns
Accuracy is paramount when hunting with slugs. While iron sights are functional, a scope provides significantly enhanced precision, allowing for more accurate shots at longer ranges. A reliable scope mount is therefore essential to harness the full potential of your rifled slug barrel.
Types of Scope Mounts:
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Base Mounts: These are the foundation of your scope mounting system, attaching directly to the receiver or barrel of your 870. Ensure the base mount is specifically designed for the Remington 870 and is securely fastened.
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Scope Rings: These secure the scope to the base mount. Choose rings that are properly sized for your scope's tube diameter and provide a solid, stable platform. High-quality rings are crucial for preventing scope shift and maintaining zero.
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Integrated Mounts: Some manufacturers offer integrated scope mounts that combine the base and rings into a single unit, providing a streamlined solution.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Scope Mount:
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Material: Steel or aluminum are common choices. Steel is more durable but heavier, while aluminum offers a lighter-weight alternative.
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Height: Mount height determines eye relief and cheek weld. Choose a height that provides a comfortable and natural shooting position. Too high, and your cheek will be strained; too low, and you may not be able to see through the scope properly.
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Durability: Invest in a high-quality, robust mount designed to withstand the recoil of a shotgun slug. A poorly made mount can lead to scope failure or even injury.
Selecting the Right 870 Slug Barrel and Scope Mount Combination
Choosing the right combination depends on your individual needs and hunting style.
For longer-range hunting:
- Barrel: A 20-28 inch rifled barrel.
- Scope: A scope with a magnification of at least 3-9x, preferably with a ballistic reticle designed for slug trajectories.
- Mount: A sturdy, high-quality mount, possibly with higher rings depending on the scope size.
For closer-range hunting or brush hunting:
- Barrel: A shorter, 18-20 inch rifled barrel (or a longer barrel if preferred).
- Scope: A shorter magnification scope (1-4x or similar) may be suitable; red dot sights are also popular options for close-range shooting.
- Mount: A lower profile mount might be preferable for faster target acquisition in dense cover.
Maintaining Your Setup
Regular cleaning and maintenance of both the barrel and the scope mount are vital for consistent accuracy and reliability. Properly cleaning the barrel after each use prevents fouling and corrosion. Inspect the scope mount for any signs of looseness or damage before each shooting session.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of choosing an 870 slug barrel with a scope mount. Remember to always prioritize safety and practice responsible firearm handling. By carefully considering the factors discussed above, you can select a setup optimized for your specific needs and enjoy successful hunting experiences.
