The Remington 870 T2 is a popular tactical shotgun, prized for its reliability and versatility. Adding a red dot sight significantly enhances its capabilities for home defense, hunting, or competitive shooting. However, choosing the right mount is crucial for a secure and reliable setup. This guide explores various Remington 870 T2 red dot mount options, factors to consider when making your selection, and installation tips to ensure optimal performance.
Understanding Remington 870 T2 Mounting Options
Several mounting solutions exist for attaching a red dot sight to your Remington 870 T2. These options vary in design, material, and price, each catering to different needs and preferences. The most common types include:
1. Picatinny Rail Mounts:
These are arguably the most popular choice. A Picatinny rail is attached to the receiver of the shotgun, providing a standardized platform for mounting various red dot sights and other accessories. The advantage lies in their versatility and ease of use. Many different red dot sights are compatible with Picatinny rails.
2. Weaver Rail Mounts:
Similar to Picatinny, Weaver rails offer a mounting solution. However, they feature slightly different specifications, so compatibility needs to be checked carefully. Weaver rails are slightly less common than Picatinny rails for shotguns.
3. Dedicated Mounts:
Some manufacturers offer mounts specifically designed for the Remington 870 T2. These mounts are often tailored to the gun's receiver, offering a potentially more robust and low-profile mounting solution. However, they may limit the choice of red dot sights due to specific compatibility.
4. Scope Mounts (with Adapters):
While primarily designed for scopes, some scope mounts can accommodate red dot sights using appropriate adapters. This option might offer a higher mounting position, which can be advantageous for certain shooting styles. However, it often requires more careful adjustment and may not be as robust as dedicated red dot mounts.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mount
Selecting the right mount involves careful consideration of several factors:
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Height: The height of the mount affects your cheek weld and sight picture. A lower mount generally provides a more natural sight alignment, but a higher mount might be necessary for use with larger optics or specific shooting stances.
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Material: Durable materials like aluminum or steel are preferred for their strength and longevity. Avoid cheap, plastic mounts, as they may not withstand the recoil of the shotgun.
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Compatibility: Ensure the mount is compatible with both your Remington 870 T2 and your chosen red dot sight. Check the manufacturer specifications carefully.
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Weight: A lighter mount will reduce the overall weight of your firearm, improving maneuverability.
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Ease of Installation: Some mounts are easier to install than others. Consider your mechanical aptitude before selecting a complex mount.
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Price: Prices vary considerably depending on the mount's material, design, and brand. Balance your budget with the quality and features you require.
Installation Tips and Precautions
Improper installation can compromise safety and accuracy. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions precisely.
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Use the correct tools: You'll likely need a screwdriver or wrench.
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Securely tighten screws: Over-tightening can damage the mount or receiver.
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Zero your red dot sight: After installation, carefully zero your red dot sight at your preferred distance.
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Regularly check the mount's security: Periodically check the mount for tightness and ensure that it remains securely fastened to the shotgun.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Remington 870 T2 red dot mount is crucial for effective and safe shooting. Carefully consider the factors discussed above, prioritize quality and compatibility, and follow the installation instructions diligently. With the right mount, your Remington 870 T2 will be even more versatile and effective in various applications. Remember to always practice safe gun handling.
