The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability, versatility, and ease of use. A popular configuration is the 18.5" barrel version, often equipped with interchangeable chokes. This guide delves deep into the features, benefits, uses, and considerations of owning a Remington 870 with an 18.5" barrel and choke system.
Understanding the Remington 870's Popularity
The Remington 870's enduring appeal stems from several key factors:
- Reliability: Known for its robust construction and simple, pump-action mechanism, the 870 is famously reliable, even under harsh conditions. This makes it a favorite among law enforcement, hunters, and home defenders.
- Versatility: The interchangeable choke system allows for customization of the shot pattern, making it suitable for various applications, from hunting birds to home defense. The 18.5" barrel strikes a balance between maneuverability and effective range.
- Ease of Use: The pump-action design is intuitive and easy to learn, even for novice shooters. Its straightforward operation makes it a great choice for self-defense situations where quick action is crucial.
- Affordability: Compared to some other shotguns, the Remington 870 offers excellent value for its price, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
The Advantages of an 18.5" Barrel
The 18.5" barrel length on a Remington 870 offers a compelling blend of advantages:
- Maneuverability: Shorter than standard 20" or 26" barrels, the 18.5" barrel makes the shotgun more compact and easier to handle in tight spaces. This is particularly beneficial for home defense or tactical situations.
- Weight: The reduced barrel length contributes to a slightly lighter overall weight, reducing fatigue during extended use.
- Balance: Many shooters find the 18.5" barrel improves the shotgun's balance, enhancing handling and pointing.
- Versatility: While slightly impacting range compared to longer barrels, the 18.5" barrel still offers sufficient range for most hunting and self-defense applications.
Interchangeable Chokes: Customizing Your Shot Pattern
The interchangeable choke system is a key feature of the Remington 870. Chokes restrict the diameter of the barrel at the muzzle, influencing the shot pattern's density and spread. Common choke types include:
| Choke Type | Shot Pattern | Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Cylinder | Wide Pattern | Close-range shooting, home defense |
| Improved Cylinder | Moderately Wide Pattern | Close to medium range, bird hunting |
| Modified | Medium Pattern | Medium range, bird and small game hunting |
| Improved Modified | Moderately Tight Pattern | Medium to long range, bird hunting |
| Full | Tight Pattern | Long-range shooting, waterfowl hunting |
Choosing the right choke depends on your intended use. A cylinder choke is ideal for home defense, while a full choke is better suited for long-range waterfowl hunting.
Choosing the Right Chokes for Different Applications
Here's a quick guide to choosing the right choke for your needs:
- Home Defense: Cylinder or Improved Cylinder for maximum shot spread at close range.
- Bird Hunting (e.g., upland game): Modified or Improved Modified for a balance of range and pattern density.
- Waterfowl Hunting: Full choke for maximum range and pattern density.
- Turkey Hunting: Specialized turkey chokes are available for optimal patterns with turkey loads.
Remington 870 18.5" Barrel: Considerations and Maintenance
While the 18.5" barrel offers many benefits, there are some factors to consider:
- Reduced Range: Compared to longer barrels, the shorter barrel slightly reduces effective range.
- Recoil: The shorter barrel may slightly increase felt recoil, especially with heavier loads.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain the reliability of the Remington 870. Pay particular attention to the action and barrel.
Case Study: A law enforcement agency switched to Remington 870s with 18.5" barrels for their SWAT team. The shorter barrel improved maneuverability in confined spaces while maintaining sufficient stopping power with appropriate ammunition.
Conclusion: The Remington 870 18.5" Barrel – A Versatile Choice
The Remington 870 with an 18.5" barrel and interchangeable chokes is a versatile and reliable shotgun suitable for a variety of applications. Its compact size, maneuverability, and customizable shot patterns make it a popular choice for home defense, hunting, and other purposes. Understanding the benefits and considerations discussed above will help you decide if this configuration is right for you. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.