The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. One popular modification that significantly enhances its capabilities is the addition of an extended magazine tube. This upgrade boosts the firearm's ammunition capacity, offering a tactical advantage in various situations. This guide delves into the world of Remington 870 extended mag tubes, exploring their benefits, considerations, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Why Choose an Extended Mag Tube for Your Remington 870?
Extended mag tubes offer several key advantages for Remington 870 owners:
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Increased Capacity: This is the most obvious benefit. A longer tube allows you to carry significantly more shells, extending your firepower and reducing the need for frequent reloads. This is particularly crucial in home defense, hunting situations involving multiple targets, or competitive shooting.
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Enhanced Tactical Readiness: In high-pressure scenarios, having more rounds readily available can be the difference between success and failure. An extended tube reduces the time spent reloading, keeping you in the fight.
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Improved Home Defense Capabilities: For home defense, the increased capacity offers a crucial advantage. The extra shells provide a greater margin of safety and increase your chances of neutralizing a threat effectively.
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Versatility: Extended tubes are compatible with a wide range of Remington 870 models and configurations, making them a versatile upgrade for many users.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 Extended Mag Tube: Key Factors
Selecting the appropriate extended mag tube involves careful consideration of several factors:
1. Capacity:
Mag tubes are available in various capacities, typically ranging from 5+1 to 10+1 (or even higher depending on the manufacturer and legality in your jurisdiction). Consider your intended use: a higher capacity is beneficial for tactical applications or hunting, while a slightly shorter tube may suffice for home defense or sporting clays. Always check your local and state laws regarding magazine capacity.
2. Material:
Extended tubes are usually constructed from steel or aluminum. Steel tubes are generally more durable and resistant to wear and tear, while aluminum tubes offer a lighter weight option. The choice depends on your priorities; durability versus weight reduction.
3. Finish:
Mag tubes are available in various finishes, including parkerized, blued, and Cerakote. These finishes provide protection against corrosion and wear. Consider the environment in which you'll be using your shotgun when making your selection.
4. Compatibility:
Ensure the extended mag tube is specifically designed for your Remington 870 model. Different models may have slight variations in their receiver dimensions, requiring specific tube designs for proper fit and function. Incorrect installation can lead to malfunctions or damage to your firearm.
5. Installation:
While many extended mag tubes are relatively easy to install, some may require specialized tools or gunsmithing expertise. Consider your mechanical skills and comfort level with firearm maintenance before purchasing.
Potential Drawbacks of Extended Mag Tubes
While offering significant advantages, extended mag tubes also present some drawbacks:
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Increased Weight: A longer tube adds weight to the front of the shotgun, potentially affecting its balance and swing.
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Length: The extended length can make the shotgun more cumbersome to maneuver in tight spaces.
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Cost: Extended mag tubes can be more expensive than standard tubes.
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Legal Restrictions: Be aware of local and state regulations regarding magazine capacity restrictions before purchasing.
Conclusion
Remington 870 extended mag tubes can be a valuable upgrade for many shooters, increasing capacity and improving tactical readiness. However, careful consideration of factors like capacity, material, finish, compatibility, and potential drawbacks is crucial to select the right tube for your specific needs and ensure safe and effective operation. Always prioritize safety and adhere to all relevant laws and regulations.
