The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, known for its reliability and versatility. A key component contributing to its performance and user experience is the stock. This guide delves into the world of Remington 870 synthetic stocks, exploring their benefits, types, and considerations for choosing the right one for your needs. We'll cover everything from material choices to aftermarket upgrades, ensuring you have the information needed to make an informed decision.
Understanding Remington 870 Synthetic Stocks
The Remington 870 synthetic stock offers a significant upgrade over traditional wood stocks in several key areas. Synthetic materials, primarily polymers, provide several advantages:
- Durability: Synthetic stocks are highly resistant to scratches, dents, and warping, making them ideal for harsh conditions and frequent use. Unlike wood, they won't crack or swell in extreme temperatures or humidity.
- Lightweight: Synthetic materials are lighter than wood, reducing the overall weight of the shotgun and improving maneuverability, particularly important for extended periods of use.
- Cost-Effective: Synthetic stocks are often less expensive than wood stocks, making them a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.
- Customization: A wide variety of synthetic stocks are available with different features like pistol grips, comb heights, and lengths of pull, allowing for a customized fit and feel.
Types of Remington 870 Synthetic Stocks
The market offers a wide range of Remington 870 synthetic stocks, catering to various shooting styles and preferences:
- Standard Stocks: These are the most common type, offering a basic design and comfortable feel for general-purpose shooting. They generally mimic the dimensions of the classic wooden stock.
- Tactical Stocks: Designed for tactical applications, these stocks often feature features like pistol grips, adjustable cheek rests, and M-LOK or Picatinny rails for mounting accessories like lights or lasers.
- Youth Stocks: Shorter and lighter stocks designed for younger shooters or individuals with smaller builds, ensuring proper fit and comfortable handling.
- Specialty Stocks: This category includes stocks designed for specific shooting disciplines, such as those with higher combs for trap shooting or those with recoil pads optimized for waterfowl hunting.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 Synthetic Stock: Key Considerations
Selecting the appropriate stock can significantly enhance your shooting experience. Here's a breakdown of factors to consider:
- Length of Pull (LOP): The distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock. Proper LOP ensures comfortable and accurate shooting. An improperly sized LOP can lead to discomfort, inaccuracy, and even injury.
- Drop at Comb and Heel: These measurements influence the stock's fit to your face and shooting posture. Incorrect drop can result in improper cheek weld and affect your sight picture.
- Cast (Right or Left): The angle of the stock's comb relative to the stock's heel. This factor accommodates for different shooting styles and body types.
- Recoil Pad: A recoil pad absorbs some of the recoil energy, reducing felt recoil and improving shooter comfort. Consider factors like material and thickness when selecting a recoil pad.
Case Study: Upgrading to a Tactical Stock
A hunter who frequently used their Remington 870 for home defense found the standard wooden stock cumbersome and ill-suited for close-quarters shooting. After upgrading to a tactical synthetic stock with a pistol grip and adjustable cheek rest, they reported significantly improved handling, quicker target acquisition, and greater overall comfort during practice and drills.
Aftermarket Remington 870 Synthetic Stocks: Expanding Your Options
The aftermarket offers a vast selection of Remington 870 synthetic stocks from various manufacturers, providing even more customization options. Some popular brands include:
- Mesa Tactical: Known for their high-quality and durable stocks designed for tactical and law enforcement use.
- Magpul: Offers stocks with innovative designs and features, often integrating modern materials and ergonomic considerations.
- ATI: Provides a wide range of stocks at various price points, offering good value for money.
Maintaining Your Remington 870 Synthetic Stock
Proper maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your synthetic stock. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water will remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish.
Conclusion: The Versatility of the Remington 870 Synthetic Stock
The Remington 870 synthetic stock presents a significant improvement over traditional wood stocks. Its durability, lightweight design, cost-effectiveness, and customization options make it a popular choice for a wide range of users. By carefully considering factors like length of pull, drop, and cast, and exploring the aftermarket options available, you can select the perfect stock to optimize your shooting experience with your Remington 870. Remember to prioritize proper fit and comfort for the best performance and safety.