The Remington 870 Express is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or a home defense enthusiast, the right accessories can significantly enhance your 870's performance and functionality. This comprehensive guide explores a range of popular and essential Remington 870 Express accessories to help you customize your shotgun and take your shooting experience to the next level.
Enhancing Accuracy and Performance
Several accessories directly improve the accuracy and handling of your Remington 870 Express. These are crucial for both hunting and target shooting.
1. Improved Sights:
The stock sights on the Remington 870 Express are functional, but upgrading to ghost ring sights or fiber optic sights can drastically improve your target acquisition, particularly in low-light conditions. Ghost ring sights offer a fast sight picture, while fiber optics provide excellent visibility. Consider the type of shooting you'll be doing when selecting your sights.
2. Extended Magazine Tubes:
Increasing your shotgun's capacity is a key consideration for many users. Extended magazine tubes allow you to carry more shells, providing a tactical advantage in home defense situations or extending your hunting capabilities without frequent reloads. Remember to check your local regulations regarding magazine capacity.
3. Tactical Forends:
Tactical forends offer a more ergonomic and secure grip, improving your control and reducing recoil. Many tactical forends include Picatinny rails, allowing you to mount accessories like lights and lasers. Choose a forend that fits your hand size and shooting style comfortably.
Enhancing Versatility and Functionality
Beyond accuracy enhancements, a range of accessories broaden the applications of your Remington 870 Express.
1. Sling Mounts and Slings:
A sturdy sling allows for comfortable carrying and quick deployment of your shotgun. Sling mounts are easily attached to the shotgun's receiver or stock, offering versatile carrying options. Consider a two-point sling for comfortable carrying and a single-point sling for tactical applications.
2. Lights and Lasers:
For home defense or low-light hunting, a weapon light or laser sight is invaluable. These accessories mount to the Picatinny rails on many tactical forends, providing crucial target illumination. Choose a light with sufficient lumens for your needs and a laser with a visible beam for accurate aiming.
3. Stocks and Buttpads:
Replacing the standard stock with an adjustable stock or adding a recoil pad can significantly enhance shooting comfort and reduce felt recoil. Adjustable stocks allow for customized fit, improving accuracy and reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. Recoil pads absorb recoil energy, making shooting more pleasant.
Choosing the Right Accessories for Your Needs
Selecting the right accessories depends entirely on your intended use for the Remington 870 Express. Consider the following:
- Hunting: Prioritize improved sights, extended magazine tubes (if legal), and a sling for comfortable carrying.
- Home Defense: Focus on a tactical forend with Picatinny rails, a weapon light, and potentially a laser sight. An extended magazine tube can be beneficial but always consider legal restrictions.
- Competition Shooting: High-quality sights, adjustable stocks, and potentially specialized stocks designed for specific disciplines are key.
Investing in high-quality Remington 870 Express accessories is a worthwhile endeavor for any shotgun owner. By carefully selecting the right upgrades, you can significantly enhance the performance, versatility, and overall enjoyment of your firearm. Remember always to consult your local and state laws regarding firearm modifications and accessory usage.
