The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. Whether you're a home defender, competitive shooter, or law enforcement professional, upgrading your 870 with tactical accessories can significantly enhance its performance and adaptability. This guide dives deep into the essential and desirable accessories available to transform your Remington 870 into a truly tactical powerhouse. We'll cover everything from stocks and forends to sights and optics, helping you choose the right gear to meet your specific needs.
Enhancing Your Aim: Sights and Optics for the Remington 870
Accurate shooting is paramount in any tactical situation. Upgrading your Remington 870's sights is a simple yet effective way to improve precision.
Ghost Ring Sights
Ghost ring sights offer a fast target acquisition system. The large rear aperture allows for quick target alignment, even in low-light conditions. Many aftermarket ghost ring sights are available for the 870, offering enhanced durability and adjustability over the factory sights. Consider brands like XS Sight Systems and Trijicon for high-quality options.
Red Dot Sights
For improved target acquisition at longer ranges, a red dot sight is an excellent addition. Mounting a red dot requires a rail system (discussed below), providing a clear, magnified image of your target. Look for compact, rugged red dot sights designed to withstand recoil. Aimpoint and Holosun are popular choices known for their reliability.
Choosing the Right Sight
The best sight for you depends on your intended use. Ghost ring sights are ideal for close-quarters combat (CQB) and home defense scenarios, offering quick target acquisition. Red dot sights provide superior precision at longer ranges, making them suitable for competition shooting or hunting.
Improving Handling: Stocks, Forends, and Grips
The stock and forend significantly impact the Remington 870's handling and ergonomics. Upgrading these components can dramatically improve your shooting experience and overall control.
Tactical Stocks
Tactical stocks are designed to improve comfort and stability during aiming and shooting. Features like adjustable cheek rests, length of pull adjustments, and pistol grips allow for a customized fit. Consider materials like durable polymer or reinforced synthetic for enhanced durability and impact resistance.
Popular brands include Magpul, Mesa Tactical, and ATI. Each offers a variety of styles and features to suit different preferences and body types.
Pistol Grip Stocks
A pistol grip stock offers enhanced control and maneuverability, particularly in close-quarters situations. The vertical grip allows for a more secure hold, improving stability during recoil.
Side-Saddle Shell Holders
Side-saddle shell holders attach to the receiver, increasing your ammunition capacity without sacrificing handling. They allow for quick reloading and offer a convenient way to carry extra shells.
Enhanced Forends
Tactical forends often include Picatinny rails, allowing you to mount accessories like lights, lasers, or vertical grips. Some forends are also designed to improve ergonomics and reduce felt recoil.
Choosing the right forend depends on your needs and desired accessories. A basic forend with a rail is sufficient for adding a light or laser. More advanced forends might incorporate features like integrated shell holders or improved handguards.
Essential Tactical Accessories: Lights, Lasers, and More
Accessories like lights and lasers dramatically enhance the Remington 870's capabilities in low-light conditions.
Weapon Lights
A weapon light is essential for home defense and law enforcement applications. It allows you to identify your target clearly before engaging. Look for lights with high lumens output and a durable construction that can withstand the recoil of a shotgun. Surefire and Streamlight are reputable brands known for their quality and reliability.
Lasers
Lasers provide precise aiming assistance, especially in low-light or stressful situations. They allow for quick target acquisition and are particularly beneficial for close-quarters combat. However, be aware of the legal restrictions regarding laser use in your area.
Other Useful Accessories
- Sling: A high-quality sling improves carrying comfort and allows for hands-free operation. Consider a two-point sling for ease of use.
- Shell Carriers: In addition to side-saddle shell holders, consider chest rigs or bandoliers for increased ammunition capacity.
- Cleaning Kit: Proper maintenance is crucial for reliability. A dedicated cleaning kit specifically designed for the Remington 870 will keep your shotgun in optimal condition.
Installing Remington 870 Tactical Accessories
Before installing any accessories, consult the manufacturer's instructions. Improper installation can damage your firearm or render the accessory ineffective.
Conclusion: Building Your Tactical Remington 870
The Remington 870 is a versatile platform that can be customized to meet a wide range of needs. By carefully selecting and installing appropriate tactical accessories, you can transform your shotgun into a highly effective tool for home defense, competition shooting, or law enforcement. Remember to prioritize quality and reliability when choosing your accessories, ensuring that they are compatible with your Remington 870 model. Regular maintenance and proper training are also essential for safe and effective use.