The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability, versatility, and ease of use. A crucial component influencing its performance is the choke tube, and the Remington 870 full choke is a popular choice for many shooters. This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of the Remington 870 full choke, exploring its characteristics, applications, and what makes it a desirable option for certain shooting disciplines. We'll examine its pattern density, effective range, and suitability for various hunting scenarios.
Understanding Choke Tubes and Their Impact on Shot Patterns
Before diving into the Remington 870 full choke specifically, let's briefly cover the basics of choke tubes. Choke tubes are cylindrical devices inserted into the muzzle of a shotgun barrel. They constrict the diameter of the barrel, influencing the pattern of the shot pellets as they exit. This constriction affects shot grouping, range, and overall effectiveness. Different choke types offer varying degrees of constriction, leading to different shot patterns.
Common Choke Types and Their Constriction
| Choke Type | Constriction (inches) | Pattern Density | Effective Range | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cylinder | 0 | Open, Wide | Short | Close-range shooting, informal targets |
| Improved Cylinder | 0.005 - 0.010 | Relatively Open | Moderate | Close to mid-range shooting, upland game birds |
| Modified | 0.015 - 0.020 | Moderate | Moderate to Long | Versatile, various game, waterfowl at closer ranges |
| Improved Modified | 0.020 - 0.025 | Dense | Long | Waterfowl, longer-range shots |
| Full | 0.030 - 0.040 | Very Dense | Long | Long-range shots, waterfowl, clays |
The Remington 870 Full Choke: A Detailed Look
The Remington 870 full choke is designed for maximum pattern density. This means the shot pellets are concentrated into a tighter group, resulting in a smaller spread at longer ranges. The increased constriction results in a higher percentage of pellets hitting the target at further distances compared to more open chokes. This makes it ideal for situations requiring precision and accuracy.
Pattern Density and Effective Range
A Remington 870 full choke significantly increases the effective range of your shots. While the exact range depends on factors like ammunition, barrel length, and environmental conditions, you can expect a noticeably tighter pattern and increased accuracy at distances where other chokes might produce too wide a spread for consistent hits. This increased range is particularly beneficial for waterfowl hunting or sporting clays, where targets are often further away.
Applications of the Remington 870 Full Choke
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Waterfowl Hunting: The Remington 870 full choke excels in waterfowl hunting due to its ability to deliver dense patterns at longer ranges. The tighter grouping maximizes the chance of hitting a flying target.
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Turkey Hunting: While some prefer a tighter choke like extra-full for turkeys, a full choke can be effective, particularly at moderate ranges.
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Sporting Clays: The precision and tighter pattern are advantageous in sporting clays, where hitting smaller targets at various distances is crucial.
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Long-Range Target Shooting: For long-range shooting at static targets, the full choke provides the accuracy needed to consistently hit targets further downrange.
Choosing the Right Ammunition
The performance of your Remington 870 full choke is also heavily dependent on the type of ammunition you use. Using the correct shot size is vital. Smaller shot sizes (e.g., #6, #7.5, #8) are generally better for longer ranges with a full choke, while larger shot sizes (e.g., #4, #00) are better suited for shorter ranges. Experimentation to find the optimal combination for your specific hunting or shooting situation is recommended.
Maintenance and Care of Your Choke Tube
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and performance of your Remington 870 full choke. Always clean your choke tube thoroughly after each use to remove any residue or buildup. Inspect it regularly for damage, and store it carefully to prevent damage. A properly maintained choke tube will provide years of reliable service.
Conclusion: The Remington 870 Full Choke's Place in the Shooter's Arsenal
The Remington 870 full choke represents a powerful tool for serious shooters seeking accuracy and range. Its ability to create tight patterns makes it ideal for various disciplines, from waterfowl hunting to long-range target shooting. However, it's crucial to understand its limitations—the tighter pattern sacrifices overall shot coverage at closer ranges. Choosing the right choke depends entirely on the specific task at hand. By understanding the capabilities of the Remington 870 full choke and how it interacts with different ammunition types, shooters can maximize their effectiveness and achieve greater success in the field or on the range.