The Remington 870, a legendary pump-action shotgun, has earned its place in history for its reliability, versatility, and enduring design. While the 12 gauge is the most common, the Remington 870 16 gauge offers a compelling alternative for many shooters. This guide will delve into the specifics of the 16 gauge 870, exploring its advantages, disadvantages, and overall suitability for various applications.
Why Choose a 16 Gauge Remington 870?
The 16 gauge Remington 870 occupies a sweet spot between the powerful 12 gauge and the lighter, less-powerful 20 gauge. This makes it a highly versatile option depending on your needs and shooting style.
Advantages of the 16 Gauge:
- Reduced Recoil: Compared to the 12 gauge, the 16 gauge delivers noticeably less recoil. This makes it more comfortable for new shooters, women, and those with smaller builds, encouraging quicker target acquisition and follow-up shots.
- Lighter Weight: The lighter recoil is often accompanied by a lighter overall weight, contributing to easier handling and maneuverability, especially during extended shooting sessions or in the field.
- Increased Shot Density: While not as powerful as a 12 gauge, a 16 gauge shell still packs a significant punch, offering increased shot density compared to a 20 gauge, making it effective for hunting various game.
- Availability of Ammunition: While perhaps not as widely available as 12 gauge ammunition, 16 gauge shells are readily accessible from most sporting goods retailers and online vendors.
Disadvantages of the 16 Gauge:
- Less Powerful than 12 Gauge: The 16 gauge's reduced recoil comes at the cost of less overall power. This might limit its effectiveness for hunting larger game or at longer ranges compared to a 12 gauge.
- Ammunition Selection: While available, the selection of 16 gauge ammunition might not be as extensive as that of the 12 gauge, particularly concerning specialized loads.
- Potentially Higher Cost per Round: In some cases, 16 gauge ammunition can be slightly more expensive than comparable 12 gauge shells.
Remington 870 16 Gauge Applications:
The 16 gauge Remington 870 is well-suited for a range of applications:
- Hunting: Ideal for upland game birds like quail, pheasant, and doves. It's also suitable for smaller waterfowl and certain types of small to medium-sized game animals, depending on the load used.
- Home Defense: The manageable recoil and reliable operation of the 870 make it a suitable choice for home defense, though the choice of gauge ultimately depends on personal preference and comfort level.
- Sporting Clays: While less common than 12 or 20 gauge, the 16 gauge can be effectively used in sporting clays competitions.
- Tactical Applications (with modifications): With appropriate modifications, the Remington 870 16 gauge can be adapted for various tactical applications.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 16 Gauge:
Several factors should be considered when choosing a Remington 870 16 gauge:
- Barrel Length: Barrel length influences the shotgun's handling, weight, and effectiveness at different ranges.
- Stock Type: Consider the stock's material and design for comfort and fit.
- Overall Condition (for used shotguns): Thoroughly inspect any used shotgun before purchasing to ensure it's in good working order.
Conclusion:
The Remington 870 16 gauge offers a balanced blend of power, manageable recoil, and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a new shooter, understanding its advantages and disadvantages will help you determine if it's the right shotgun for your needs. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
