The Remington 870 has long held a legendary status among shotguns, and its tactical variant, the Remington 870 Tactical, is no exception. This review delves deep into this iconic firearm, examining its features, performance, and suitability for various applications. We'll explore what makes it a popular choice for home defense, law enforcement, and even competitive shooting. Understanding the nuances of the Remington 870 Tactical is crucial for anyone considering purchasing one.
The Remington 870 Tactical: A Legacy of Reliability
The Remington 870 Tactical's reputation is built on the robust platform of the original Remington 870 pump-action shotgun. This design, known for its simplicity and reliability, is a cornerstone of its success. Decades of proven performance in various conditions make it a trusted choice for many. But what exactly makes the tactical version stand out?
Key Features of the Remington 870 Tactical:
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Durable Construction: The 870 Tactical is constructed from high-quality materials designed to withstand harsh conditions. Its receiver is typically made from steel, ensuring longevity and resilience.
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Tactical Stock and Forend: Unlike standard 870s, the Tactical model often features a shorter, more ergonomic stock and a pistol grip forend. This improves maneuverability in close-quarters situations. Many variations exist, with options ranging from basic polymer to more advanced adjustable stocks.
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Ghost Ring Sights: Many Remington 870 Tactical models come equipped with ghost ring sights. These sights offer a fast and intuitive aiming system ideal for rapid target acquisition in close-range engagements. The large rear aperture and front post allow for quick target alignment, crucial in high-stress situations.
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Accessory Rails: A Picatinny rail on the receiver is a common feature, allowing for the mounting of accessories such as red dot sights, lasers, or tactical lights. This modularity significantly enhances the gun's versatility.
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Various Barrel Lengths: The Remington 870 Tactical is available with different barrel lengths, catering to various needs and legal restrictions. Shorter barrels, like 18.5 inches, are preferred for home defense and close-quarters combat, while longer barrels offer improved accuracy at longer ranges.
Performance and Handling: On the Range and Beyond
The Remington 870 Tactical's performance is largely defined by its reliable action and manageable recoil. The pump-action mechanism, while requiring some practice to master, ensures consistent cycling even with heavy loads.
Real-World Scenarios:
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Home Defense: Its compact size and manageable recoil make it suitable for indoor use, crucial in a home defense situation. The reliable action is a significant advantage in stressful scenarios where malfunctions could have severe consequences.
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Law Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies have utilized the Remington 870 for decades, testament to its durability and reliability. Its versatility allows for diverse applications, including breaching, crowd control, and close-quarters combat.
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Competitive Shooting: While not the primary choice for all disciplines, the 870 Tactical is used in some competitive shooting events where its reliability and versatility are valued.
Potential Drawbacks:
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Capacity: The standard magazine tube capacity is typically 5+1 rounds (depending on barrel length and configuration). This may be a limiting factor compared to shotguns with higher-capacity magazines.
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Recoil: While manageable, the recoil can still be felt, especially with heavier loads. Practice is necessary to control recoil effectively.
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Maintenance: Like any firearm, regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to ensure reliable operation. Neglecting maintenance could lead to malfunctions.
Choosing the Right Configuration: A Buyer's Guide
The Remington 870 Tactical comes in several configurations. Choosing the right one depends heavily on the intended application:
| Feature | Options & Considerations |
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| Barrel Length | 18.5", 20", 28" (shorter barrels for close quarters, longer for range) |
| Stock | Fixed, adjustable, pistol grip (consider ergonomics and intended use) |
| Sights | Ghost ring, ghost ring with rail, rail-only (choose based on preferred aiming style) |
| Magazine Tube | Extended tubes available for increased capacity (check legal restrictions) |
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic in Tactical Attire
The Remington 870 Tactical is a proven, reliable shotgun. Its simple design, robust construction, and versatile platform make it a popular choice across various applications. While it has limitations, particularly in magazine capacity, its reliability and ease of use compensate significantly. The Remington 870 Tactical remains a powerful and practical firearm for those who need a dependable shotgun for home defense, law enforcement, or competitive shooting. However, prospective buyers should carefully consider their specific needs and legal regulations before making a purchase. Remember to always handle firearms responsibly and safely.