The Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge shotgun is a popular choice for young hunters and shooters. Its smaller size and lighter weight make it ideal for introducing young people to the sport of shooting while still offering the reliable performance expected from a Remington 870. This guide will delve into the specifications, features, and considerations for this specific model.
Key Specs of the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge
This section provides a detailed breakdown of the crucial specifications for the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge shotgun. Understanding these specifics will help you determine if it's the right fit for your young shooter.
Barrel Length and Choke
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Barrel Length: Typically, you'll find the youth model with a shorter barrel length than the adult versions. This contributes to the gun's overall manageable size and weight. Common barrel lengths are around 18 inches to 20 inches. A shorter barrel can affect the range and pattern of the shot, but it improves maneuverability for younger shooters.
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Choke: The choke determines the shot pattern. Youth models often come with a modified choke, providing a good balance between range and pattern density. However, always check the specific choke included with your model. You might be able to purchase different chokes to adjust the shot spread to suit various shooting situations.
Stock Dimensions and Weight
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Stock Length of Pull (LOP): This is the distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock. The youth model features a shorter LOP, crucial for proper fit and comfortable shouldering. A stock that's too long can make shooting awkward and uncomfortable.
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Weight: The Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge is considerably lighter than the adult versions. This reduced weight is essential for young shooters to handle and control the firearm easily, preventing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The lighter weight also improves swing speed and target acquisition.
Action Type and Capacity
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Action Type: Like its adult counterparts, the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge is a pump-action shotgun. Pump-action shotguns are known for their reliability, ease of use, and relatively simple mechanism.
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Capacity: The magazine capacity varies depending on local laws and regulations. It usually holds fewer rounds than the standard 870, aligning with safety considerations for young shooters. Always check your local laws to ensure you are compliant with magazine capacity restrictions.
Other Notable Features
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Recoil Pad: Many youth models incorporate a recoil pad designed to absorb recoil and lessen the impact on the shooter. This is particularly important for younger shooters who may be more sensitive to recoil.
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Safety: The safety mechanism is critically important. The Remington 870 has a reliable and easily accessible safety feature, ensuring safe handling and preventing accidental discharge.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge
Selecting the correct firearm for a young shooter involves careful consideration of several factors beyond just specifications.
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Proper Fit: The most crucial factor is ensuring the shotgun fits the young shooter correctly. An improper fit can lead to poor shooting form, discomfort, and potential safety issues. Take your young shooter to a gun store that specializes in fitting firearms.
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Professional Guidance: Seek advice from experienced shooting instructors or gun store professionals. They can guide you through the process of selecting the right shotgun and provide valuable instruction on safe firearm handling and shooting techniques.
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Ammunition Selection: Choose appropriate ammunition that is not too powerful. Using low-recoil 20-gauge ammunition is highly recommended to reduce recoil and make the shooting experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
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Safety Training: Before ever allowing a young person to handle a firearm, ensure they receive comprehensive safety training from a qualified instructor. This training should cover safe handling, storage, and the responsible use of firearms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the average weight of a Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge?
A: The weight varies slightly based on the barrel and other components, but it's generally lighter than the adult version, usually around 5-6 pounds.
Q: Can I change the choke on the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge?
A: Yes, most models allow for interchangeable chokes, giving you flexibility to adjust the shot pattern as needed.
Q: What type of ammunition is recommended for the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge?
A: Low-recoil 20-gauge ammunition is highly recommended to minimize recoil for young shooters.
Q: Where can I find more detailed specifications for a specific model?
A: Consult the Remington Arms website or your local gun dealer for exact specifications on a particular model number.
Remember that safety is paramount when handling any firearm. Always prioritize safe gun handling practices and ensure proper training before allowing any young person to handle or shoot a firearm.