The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, known for its reliability and versatility. A particularly popular variant is the Remington 870 short barrel with a pistol grip, offering a compact and powerful close-quarters combat (CQB) weapon. This guide delves into the features, benefits, drawbacks, and considerations of this specific configuration. We'll explore its ideal uses, legal aspects, and modifications, providing a complete overview for both novice and experienced firearm owners.
Understanding the Remington 870 Short Barrel Pistol Grip Shotgun
The Remington 870 short barrel pistol grip shotgun, often referred to as a "tactical" or "home defense" shotgun, distinguishes itself through its modified design. This isn't merely an aesthetic change; the shortened barrel and pistol grip significantly impact the weapon's handling, maneuverability, and effectiveness in specific situations. Let's break down these key features:
The Short Barrel: Advantages and Disadvantages
A shorter barrel (typically under 18.5 inches) leads to:
- Increased Maneuverability: The reduced length makes it easier to navigate tight spaces and corners. This is crucial in home defense scenarios or close-quarters engagements.
- Reduced Weight: A shorter barrel translates to less overall weight, making the shotgun easier to handle and carry for extended periods.
- Faster Target Acquisition: The shorter sight radius can lead to faster target acquisition in close range encounters, although this can be a trade-off with accuracy at longer distances.
However, shortening the barrel also has drawbacks:
- Reduced Effective Range: Shorter barrels reduce the velocity of the shot, resulting in a significantly shorter effective range. Accuracy at longer distances is compromised.
- Increased Recoil: The shorter barrel doesn't allow as much time for the expanding gases to propel the shot, increasing recoil.
- Louder Report: Shorter barrels also produce a louder report due to less gas dispersal.
The Pistol Grip: Ergonomics and Control
The pistol grip replaces the traditional stock, providing a different handling experience. This change offers:
- Improved Control (in theory): Some users find the pistol grip offers better control during rapid firing, especially in close-quarters situations. However, this is highly subjective and dependent on individual shooting techniques.
- Compactness: The pistol grip contributes significantly to the overall compactness of the shotgun, ideal for storage and transport.
- Ambidextrous Use: Pistol grips generally allow for ambidextrous use.
The pistol grip also presents some challenges:
- Reduced Stability: Lack of a shoulder stock reduces the stability of the weapon, impacting accuracy, especially for less experienced shooters.
- Increased Recoil Felt: Recoil is felt more acutely with the pistol grip, which can lead to less control and accuracy.
Legal Considerations and Regulations
Important Note: Laws regarding firearm ownership and modifications vary significantly by jurisdiction. It's crucial to understand and comply with all local, state, and federal laws before purchasing or modifying a Remington 870 or any firearm. Failure to do so can result in severe legal penalties. Consult your local law enforcement agencies or a qualified legal professional for specific information relating to your region. The legality of short-barreled shotguns often involves special permits or registration requirements.
Choosing Ammunition: Gauge and Shot Type
The Remington 870 typically comes in 12-gauge, but other gauges might be available depending on the model. Ammunition selection depends heavily on the intended purpose:
- Home Defense: Consider buckshot for its stopping power or 00 buck for larger shot. Slugs are an option, but require more precise aiming.
- Hunting (if legally permissible with this configuration): Shot size depends on the game being hunted, adhering to all hunting regulations.
Always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for safe ammunition usage.
Modifications and Accessories
The Remington 870's popularity stems partly from its adaptability. Numerous modifications and accessories enhance its functionality:
- Sights: Adding ghost ring or red dot sights improves accuracy, particularly essential with the short barrel.
- Forend: Different forends offer improved ergonomics and potentially quicker reloading.
- Light/Laser Combinations: These enhance target identification and acquisition in low-light conditions.
- Stocks (If removing pistol grip): Adding a stock improves stability and reduces recoil.
Case Study: Home Defense Scenario
Imagine a homeowner encountering an intruder in their residence. The short barrel pistol grip Remington 870 provides a compact weapon easily maneuverable within the confined space of a house. Its stopping power, derived from buckshot or 00 buck, could quickly neutralize the threat. However, the reduced range necessitates close proximity to the target.
Conclusion: Is a Remington 870 Short Barrel Pistol Grip Shotgun Right for You?
The Remington 870 short barrel with pistol grip is a powerful and compact shotgun suitable for specific situations. However, its shorter range, increased recoil, and potential legal restrictions necessitate careful consideration. It's ideal for close-quarters applications like home defense where maneuverability is paramount but its limitations must be understood before purchase and use. Always prioritize safety, legal compliance, and proper training before handling any firearm.