Introducing the Magpul Advantage
The Remington 870. It’s a name synonymous with reliability, ruggedness, and a legacy etched in the history of firearms. Whether used for home defense, hunting, or even competition, the 870 is a workhorse of a shotgun. But like any tool, the 870 can be improved. One of the most popular and effective upgrades is swapping out the factory forend for a Magpul forend. This guide provides a comprehensive look at why the Magpul Remington 870 Forend is a smart investment and how it can transform your experience with this classic shotgun.
The appeal of upgrading your 870 extends beyond mere aesthetics. It’s about optimizing performance and ensuring the shotgun aligns perfectly with your shooting style. With the Magpul Remington 870 Forend, you’re not just getting a piece of plastic; you’re investing in enhanced control, reduced fatigue, and the ability to outfit your shotgun with the accessories you need.
Grasping the Benefits: What Makes the Magpul Forend Stand Out
One of the primary reasons shooters choose the Magpul Remington 870 Forend is the dramatic improvement in ergonomics. The original forend can sometimes feel a bit blocky or lack the kind of grip that inspires confidence. Magpul addresses this with a design focused on comfort and control. The handguard is thoughtfully contoured to fit the natural shape of your hand. The textured surface, often featuring a pattern of ridges or fine stippling, ensures a secure grip, even in wet or adverse conditions. This improved grip translates directly into better control during cycling, follow-up shots, and overall firearm manipulation. Reduced slippage means more consistent and accurate performance.
Durability is another key advantage. Magpul is renowned for utilizing advanced reinforced polymers in its products. The Magpul Remington 870 Forend is no exception. Constructed from a high-strength polymer, it’s built to withstand the rigors of hard use. Whether you’re putting your 870 through training exercises, using it for hunting in challenging environments, or simply relying on it for home defense, the Magpul forend is made to last. This rugged construction provides increased impact resistance and resistance to the wear and tear that can quickly degrade a factory forend. Choosing the Magpul Remington 870 Forend is an investment in longevity.
Beyond grip and durability, the Magpul Remington 870 Forend unlocks a world of modularity. It’s equipped with Magpul’s famed M-LOK attachment system. M-LOK offers a versatile and secure platform for mounting a wide array of accessories. This means you can easily attach lights, lasers, vertical grips, sling mounts, and other essential tools to enhance your shotgun’s functionality. M-LOK is a standardized and popular system within the firearms community. This widespread acceptance means a diverse range of accessories are readily available. It’s easy to install, and the modularity allows you to customize your 870 to match your precise needs.
Finally, let’s acknowledge the aesthetic appeal. While functionality is paramount, the Magpul Remington 870 Forend also offers a significant visual upgrade. Magpul’s design language is characterized by a clean, modern aesthetic. The forend’s lines are sleek, and the overall profile provides a more streamlined and contemporary look compared to the factory version. This visual enhancement is the cherry on top of all the other benefits.
Ensuring a Perfect Fit: Compatibility and the Simple Installation
Before you rush out and buy a Magpul Remington 870 Forend, it’s essential to confirm its compatibility with your shotgun. Thankfully, Magpul designs its forends to be compatible with the most common Remington 870 variants. Generally, you’ll find they fit standard 12-gauge models. It’s always best to verify before you buy. Double-check your shotgun’s specifications and compare them to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Installing the Magpul Remington 870 Forend is a straightforward process. The whole procedure is something most shooters can accomplish with a minimum of tools and a little patience. Begin by ensuring your shotgun is unloaded and the chamber is clear. This is, of course, a crucial safety step.
Next, you will likely need to remove the original forend. Depending on the model, this might involve removing a retaining nut or a similar component. The next step is to unscrew the magazine tube cap and remove the old forend. After doing this, you can place the new Magpul Remington 870 Forend onto the gun, following the specific instructions that come with the Magpul forend itself. Secure the new forend in place using the appropriate hardware. Most installations only require a few basic tools. You will likely need a screwdriver and potentially a wrench or pliers for the magazine tube cap. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The whole process usually takes no more than fifteen to twenty minutes. It’s a relatively simple project that delivers a big return in terms of performance and user experience.
Exploring the Options: Considering Different Forend Styles
Magpul offers different iterations of their Magpul Remington 870 Forend to cater to varied preferences and needs. Some feature a hand stop, providing an additional reference point for your hand and enhancing control. Others may include a handguard to provide some degree of protection against heat.
Before choosing, consider the shooting style you practice the most. Do you need more grip on the forend? Are you planning to add lights or other accessories? Does the ability to mount accessories directly on the forend appeal to you? Think about what accessories you plan to add. By considering the intended use, you can choose the forend that best suits your needs.
Expanding Functionality: Accessories to Elevate Your Experience
The M-LOK system on the Magpul Remington 870 Forend opens a world of possibilities for customization. Several accessories can dramatically improve the utility of your shotgun. One of the most popular additions is a weapon light.
A high-quality weapon light is essential for home defense and low-light hunting scenarios. Look for lights that are designed to withstand the recoil of a shotgun. Consider the lumen output and beam pattern. A light with a strong, focused beam can help you identify threats at distance, while a wider beam provides good situational awareness.
A vertical grip is another great addition. A vertical grip provides enhanced control and helps you maintain a secure grip. Consider the length and angle of the grip, and opt for one that feels comfortable and allows you to maintain a natural shooting stance.
Sling attachments are equally important. If you plan to carry your shotgun for extended periods, a sling is essential for comfortable and convenient transport. Ensure that the sling attachments are compatible with your chosen sling.
Remember that with the M-LOK system, you’re able to choose the accessories that best suit your style of use.
Where to Acquire Your Upgrade and General Pricing
The Magpul Remington 870 Forend and its compatible accessories are readily available. You can typically find them at most major online retailers specializing in firearms accessories. This includes well-known retailers like Brownells, MidwayUSA, and OpticsPlanet. Often, smaller, specialized retailers will also stock these parts.
When it comes to pricing, the Magpul Remington 870 Forend itself is usually priced in a very accessible range. Prices can vary slightly depending on the retailer, sales, and the specific features. Accessories will, of course, have their own price points. It’s always a good idea to compare prices across different retailers to find the best deal. Also, remember to factor in shipping costs and any applicable sales tax.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Transformation
Upgrading your Remington 870 with a Magpul Remington 870 Forend is a decision that brings tangible benefits to any shooter. It’s an upgrade that makes perfect sense. You’ll enjoy better ergonomics, increased durability, and a highly customizable platform. The installation process is manageable for most shooters. The wide selection of accessories means you can tailor your shotgun precisely to your needs.
The Magpul Remington 870 Forend transforms a proven workhorse into a more efficient and enjoyable firearm. If you’re looking to enhance your 870, this upgrade is a fantastic place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions (Optional)
Is the Magpul forend a direct replacement for the factory forend?
What tools do I need to install the Magpul forend?
What kind of polymer is the Magpul forend made from?
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Is it difficult to add accessories to the Magpul forend?
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