The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, and its 20-gauge variant offers a compelling blend of power, versatility, and manageable recoil. Choosing the right barrel for your Remington 870 20 gauge can significantly impact your shooting experience, whether you're hunting, sport shooting, or engaging in home defense. This guide dives deep into the various barrel options available, helping you make an informed decision.
Understanding Remington 870 20 Gauge Barrel Options
Remington 870 20-gauge barrels come in a wide variety of configurations, catering to diverse needs and preferences. Key factors to consider include:
1. Barrel Length:
Barrel length significantly influences the shotgun's handling, recoil, and effective range. Shorter barrels (e.g., 18.5 inches) are easier to maneuver in tight spaces, ideal for home defense, while longer barrels (e.g., 26 or 28 inches) offer improved accuracy and less recoil at longer ranges, making them suitable for hunting. Common lengths include:
- 18.5 inches: Compact and maneuverable, often favored for home defense or tactical applications.
- 20 inches: A versatile option balancing maneuverability and range.
- 26 inches: A popular choice for hunting, offering a good balance of accuracy and recoil management.
- 28 inches: Provides enhanced accuracy and range, often preferred for longer shots.
2. Barrel Type:
Different barrel types are designed for specific purposes:
- Cylinder Bore: Provides the most open choke, ideal for close-range shooting with shot spread for hunting smaller game at close range.
- Improved Cylinder: A slightly constricted choke compared to cylinder bore, offering a balance between shot pattern and range.
- Modified: A moderate choke constricting the shot pattern for medium-range shots. Excellent for hunting a wide variety of game.
- Full: The tightest choke, providing the longest range and tightest pattern. Suitable for long-range shooting or hunting larger game.
- Skeet/Improved Cylinder/Light Modified/Modified/Improved Modified/Full Choke: These are choke tubes, allowing for versatility by easily switching chokes to suit different situations. This system is highly adaptable and popular among many shooters.
3. Rib Type:
The rib, the raised portion on top of the barrel, can impact sighting and aesthetics. Common rib types include:
- Ventilated Ribs: Help dissipate heat and reduce glare, enhancing sighting accuracy.
- Standard Ribs: A simpler, more cost-effective option.
4. Sights:
Some barrels come with built-in sights, such as beads or ghost rings, aiding in target acquisition. Others may require the addition of aftermarket sights.
Choosing the Right Barrel for Your Needs
The ideal Remington 870 20-gauge barrel depends heavily on your intended use:
- Home Defense: An 18.5-inch barrel with a cylinder bore or improved cylinder choke is generally recommended for close-quarters situations.
- Hunting: The choice depends on the game. For smaller game at closer ranges, a 20-26 inch barrel with improved cylinder or modified choke is often suitable. For larger game or longer ranges, a 26-28 inch barrel with modified or full choke might be preferred.
- Sporting Clays: A longer barrel (26-28 inches) with interchangeable choke tubes is typically used for versatility in various shooting disciplines.
Maintaining Your Remington 870 20 Gauge Barrel
Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your barrel. Regular cleaning after each use, using appropriate cleaning solvents and brushes, is essential to prevent fouling and corrosion. Store your firearm properly, in a dry and secure location, to prevent damage.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Remington 870 20-gauge barrels. Remember to always handle firearms safely and responsibly. Consult with experienced shooters and firearm professionals to ensure you make the best choice for your individual needs and preferences.
