The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. Its tactical variants are particularly popular among law enforcement, security personnel, and civilian shooters seeking a robust and customizable platform for home defense or recreational shooting. This guide dives deep into the world of Remington 870 tactical parts, covering everything from essential upgrades to advanced modifications. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer to the platform, this resource will help you navigate the vast array of options available.
Understanding Remington 870 Tactical Configurations
Before diving into specific parts, it's crucial to understand the different tactical configurations of the Remington 870. These variations often influence the types of parts that are compatible and the overall functionality of the shotgun. Common tactical configurations include:
- Standard Tactical: This typically involves a shorter barrel (18.5" or less), ghost ring sights, and a tactical stock.
- Police/Military Variants: These are often modified with specialized features such as side-saddle shell holders, pistol grips, and enhanced safety mechanisms.
- Custom Builds: Many enthusiasts build highly customized tactical shotguns, combining parts from various manufacturers to create unique and personalized firearms.
Understanding your specific model and its configuration is essential when selecting compatible parts.
Essential Remington 870 Tactical Parts and Upgrades
This section focuses on the core components that significantly enhance the functionality and performance of your Remington 870 tactical shotgun.
1. Sights: Enhancing Accuracy and Target Acquisition
- Ghost Ring Sights: These are a popular choice for tactical shotguns, offering a fast sight picture ideal for close-quarters combat. Many aftermarket options are available, offering improved durability and adjustability.
- Red Dot Sights: For improved accuracy at longer ranges, mounting a red dot sight on a Remington 870 is a common upgrade. This requires a suitable mounting base, ensuring compatibility with your chosen sight.
- Fiber Optic Sights: These provide increased visibility in low-light conditions, improving target acquisition speed.
2. Stocks and Forends: Ergonomics and Control
- Tactical Stocks: These stocks are designed for improved ergonomics and handling, featuring features like pistol grips, adjustable cheek rests, and more. Materials range from synthetic polymers for durability to wood for aesthetics and a more traditional feel.
- Pistol Grips: Replacing the standard stock with a pistol grip significantly improves control and maneuverability, especially in close-quarters scenarios.
- Forends: Improved forends offer better ergonomics and often include rails for mounting accessories. Some tactical forends offer improved heat shielding from the barrel.
3. Magazines and Shell Holders: Increasing Capacity
- Side-Saddle Shell Holders: These are commonly used to increase the shotgun's ammunition capacity, allowing for quick reloads.
- Extended Magazines: While not as common as side-saddle holders, extended magazines increase the number of shells the shotgun can hold. Be sure to check for compatibility with your specific model.
Advanced Remington 870 Tactical Modifications
This section delves into more advanced modifications that enhance specific aspects of the Remington 870's performance.
1. Rail Systems: Expanding Accessory Options
- Picatinny Rails: Attaching a Picatinny rail system allows for mounting various accessories, including lights, lasers, and scopes. Different rail systems are available to fit different areas of the shotgun, such as the receiver, forend, or barrel.
2. Barrel Upgrades: Enhancing Range and Performance
- Shorter Barrels: Shorter barrels are beneficial for maneuverability in close-quarters situations, but they may impact range and accuracy.
- Longer Barrels: Conversely, longer barrels can improve accuracy and range, albeit at the cost of maneuverability.
- Choke Tubes: Choosing the right choke tube is crucial for optimizing the shotgun's pattern and shot spread, depending on the intended use.
Choosing the Right Parts: Compatibility and Quality
When selecting Remington 870 tactical parts, several factors must be considered:
- Compatibility: Ensure the parts are compatible with your specific Remington 870 model. Checking manufacturer specifications is crucial.
- Quality: Opt for high-quality parts from reputable manufacturers to ensure reliability and durability.
- Budget: Parts prices vary greatly, ranging from affordable upgrades to high-end custom components. Set a budget before starting your upgrades.
This guide serves as a starting point for understanding the vast world of Remington 870 tactical parts. Remember to always prioritize safety, and ensure any modifications are performed by a qualified gunsmith if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. Thorough research and careful selection of parts will help you create a customized Remington 870 tactical shotgun perfectly suited to your individual needs.
