Understanding Your Tactical Needs
The Remington 870: a name synonymous with reliability, durability, and sheer stopping power. For decades, this pump-action shotgun has served as a cornerstone of American firearms, finding its place in the hands of law enforcement, military personnel, and responsible civilians alike. Its straightforward design, ease of operation, and ability to handle a wide variety of ammunition have made it a favorite for home defense, hunting, and competitive shooting. But the 870 isn’t just a workhorse; it’s also a platform ripe for customization. This article delves into the world of **Remington 870 tactical parts**, offering a comprehensive guide to upgrading and enhancing your shotgun to meet your specific needs and tactical goals.
This journey will guide you through the process of selecting and installing the right components, ensuring that your **Remington 870** not only performs flawlessly but also fits your body and your shooting style. We’ll explore essential upgrades, from stocks and forends to sights and rails, providing you with the knowledge to build a truly personalized tactical weapon. Remember, responsible gun ownership and safe firearm handling are paramount. Let’s get started.
Before diving into the vast selection of **Remington 870 tactical parts**, it’s crucial to take a step back and assess your specific requirements. What do you intend to use your shotgun for? This question is the foundation upon which all upgrade decisions should be built.
Consider the following scenarios: Are you primarily interested in home defense, where maneuverability and rapid target acquisition are paramount? Or perhaps you’re a hunter looking to improve your accuracy and range? Maybe you participate in competitive shooting, and you require enhancements that facilitate faster reloads and better recoil management.
Defining your goals helps narrow your focus and avoid unnecessary modifications. Think about the environments where you’ll be using your shotgun. Will it be mostly used indoors in close-quarters situations, or outdoors at longer ranges? This impacts the choice of sights, lights, and other accessories.
Beyond the intended use, consider your skill level. Are you a seasoned shooter, or are you new to firearms? Choose parts that complement your existing abilities and allow you to develop your skills further. As you gain experience, you might find that your needs and preferences evolve, which is perfectly normal.
Essential Considerations Before You Start
Before you start ordering parts, there are a few key considerations that need your attention.
One crucial aspect is local, state, and federal regulations. Firearm laws vary significantly, and certain modifications might be restricted or outright illegal in your area. Research thoroughly to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal issues. Always prioritize compliance with all applicable laws.
Budgeting is critical. Upgrading a **Remington 870** can range from relatively inexpensive to quite costly, depending on the scope of the project. Set a realistic budget upfront and stick to it. Prioritize essential upgrades that will have the most significant impact on performance. You can always add more features later as your budget allows.
Finally, assess your mechanical skills and the tools you have available. Are you comfortable with disassembling and reassembling your shotgun? If not, professional installation may be necessary. Some modifications are straightforward, while others require specialized tools or expertise. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you are unsure. Proper installation is crucial for both safety and optimal performance.
Key Components: The Heart of Your Upgrade
Now, let’s examine the most popular and effective **Remington 870 tactical parts** that can transform your shotgun into a true tactical powerhouse.
Customizing Your Stock
The stock is a critical component affecting the shooter’s comfort and overall performance. The right stock provides a stable platform for aiming and controlling recoil.
Consider the classic fixed stock, often valued for its simplicity and robustness. They offer a consistent cheek weld and are typically very durable. However, fixed stocks may not be ideal for all shooters, especially those of different sizes.
Adjustable stocks offer versatility and a custom fit. Telescoping stocks, for instance, can adjust the length of pull (LOP) to match the shooter’s arm length, making it easier to achieve proper eye relief and improve accuracy. Folding stocks, although offering excellent portability, should be used with caution due to potential issues with legal restrictions and a less-than-stable shooting platform (check your local laws before purchasing or using).
Consider pistol grips. These can significantly change the feel and control of the shotgun, especially when combined with a shorter stock. They often improve maneuverability and allow for a more aggressive shooting stance.
When selecting a stock, pay close attention to the length of pull (LOP). It’s the distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock. The ideal LOP is one that allows you to comfortably shoulder the shotgun and achieve a full sight picture without straining your neck or shoulders.
Forends: The Pump Handle
The forend, or pump handle, is another critical component for your **Remington 870** because it affects the shooter’s control and how quickly you can cycle the action.
A standard forend is the basic, often smooth, pump handle that comes with the factory shotgun. While functional, it might lack the features needed for tactical applications.
Tactical forends are designed with enhanced ergonomics. Many are textured or feature grooves for improved grip, especially in wet or adverse conditions.
Forends with rails are a great option. Integrated rails enable you to attach various accessories, such as weapon lights and laser sights. These can significantly increase your situational awareness and target acquisition speed.
When selecting a forend, consider the material (polymer or aluminum), the grip texture, and ease of operation. Make sure the pump is comfortable and that you can cycle the action smoothly and reliably.
Sights: Achieving Precise Aim
Upgrading your sights is a crucial enhancement for any tactical shotgun. The factory bead sight is adequate for close-range shooting but can be limiting for more precise engagements.
Iron sights, like ghost ring sights or tritium sights, offer a significant improvement. Ghost ring sights provide a wider field of view and faster target acquisition. Tritium sights have illuminated inserts for low-light visibility.
Red dot sights are a popular choice because they provide quick target acquisition and are easy to use. They project a red dot onto the target, allowing you to keep both eyes open for better situational awareness. Consider battery life and the possibility of co-witnessing with your iron sights, so you still have backup sights if needed.
Reflex sights are similar to red dots. They can have a larger field of view.
When choosing sights, consider your preferred shooting style, the distances you typically engage targets, and the lighting conditions you anticipate. The goal is to select a sight that enhances your accuracy and allows for rapid target acquisition.
Rails and Mounting Solutions
Rails are essential for attaching accessories to your **Remington 870**.
Picatinny rails are the industry standard and are compatible with a wide range of accessories. They provide a secure and versatile platform for mounting optics, lights, lasers, and other devices.
Modern mounting systems like M-LOK and KeyMod are becoming increasingly popular due to their lightweight design and modularity. They offer attachment points for accessories and can streamline the look and feel of your shotgun.
Consider rail placement. You can find rails on handguards, forends, and the receiver. The optimal configuration will depend on the accessories you plan to mount and your preferred shooting stance.
Consider the weight of the rail system and its compatibility with the accessories you plan to use. Ensure the installation is secure and that the rail provides a stable platform.
Slings and Carrying
A sling is an invaluable addition to any tactical shotgun, especially if you need to carry it for extended periods.
Consider single-point, two-point, and three-point slings. Each type has advantages and disadvantages.
Single-point slings are ideal for close-quarters situations. They allow for quick transitions between shouldering and maneuvering the shotgun.
Two-point slings offer a more secure and stable carry. They are typically adjustable for length and can be used for a variety of carrying positions.
Three-point slings provide excellent security and can be deployed quickly.
Mounting options include swivel studs, sling plates, and QD (Quick Detach) mounts. Select a mounting system that is compatible with your chosen sling and provides a secure attachment point.
Consider comfort, maneuverability, and ease of carry when selecting a sling. It should allow you to comfortably and safely carry the shotgun in a variety of situations.
Boosting Your Capacity
Adding a magazine extension is one of the most effective ways to increase the firepower of your **Remington 870**.
Magazine extensions add additional rounds to your shotgun’s capacity. They can give you more rounds to deal with multiple targets.
Be aware of legal restrictions on magazine capacity in your area. Ensure that any magazine extensions you purchase comply with all applicable laws.
Ensure the magazine extension you select has a high-quality spring and follower for reliable feeding.
Other Accessories
Additional tactical accessories can further enhance your **Remington 870**.
Weapon lights are essential for low-light engagements. They can improve your situational awareness, identify threats, and potentially disorient an attacker.
Laser sights can provide a quick aiming solution, especially in stressful situations. However, ensure you’re proficient with laser sights and understand their limitations.
Consider choke tubes if you need to control your shot pattern. Different choke tubes are designed for different distances and shot types.
Shell carriers/side saddles can provide quick access to extra ammunition. This increases your reload speed and provides you with a constant supply of ammunition.
Installation and Maintenance: Keeping Your Shotgun Operational
Once you’ve chosen your **Remington 870 tactical parts**, it’s time for installation.
Basic tools are often required: screwdrivers (various sizes and types), punches, a hammer, and possibly a vise and pliers. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions. There are many video tutorials online that show you how to install these parts, if you would like help.
Before starting any modifications, make sure your shotgun is unloaded and that you have removed all ammunition from the area. Safety first!
Keep your shotgun and its new components clean and well-maintained.
Top Brands to Consider
Several reputable companies specialize in producing high-quality **Remington 870 tactical parts**.
Magpul is well-known for its durable and affordable stocks, forends, and accessories.
Mesa Tactical offers high-quality stock adapters, shell carriers, and other tactical solutions.
Wilson Combat provides premium parts and accessories known for their reliability and performance.
Check reputable gun stores and online retailers.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
Sometimes, even the best-laid plans can run into problems.
Issues might include: part fitment problems, loose components, or cycling issues.
Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help.
When in doubt, consult a qualified gunsmith.
Conclusion: Tailoring Your 870
Customizing your **Remington 870** with tactical parts is a rewarding experience. It allows you to create a firearm that perfectly suits your needs and enhances your ability to protect yourself or to pursue your favorite sport.
Start by defining your goals, setting a budget, and understanding the legal requirements. Prioritize essential upgrades, such as a good stock and sights, and then move on to other accessories as needed. Remember to prioritize safe gun handling practices.
Practice regularly with your upgraded shotgun to become familiar with its new features and capabilities. Continuing education and professional training can further enhance your skills. Remember to treat every firearm as if it were loaded and to always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
Building and maintaining a **Remington 870** is a continuous process of learning, adapting, and refining your skills and knowledge. Approach it with a commitment to safety, responsibility, and a willingness to learn. Happy shooting!
