The Remington 870, a legendary pump-action shotgun, has earned its place in history for reliability and versatility. The availability of a 3.5" chamber barrel significantly expands its capabilities, particularly for waterfowl hunting and other applications requiring extra power and range. This article delves into the specifics of the Remington 870 3.5" chamber barrel, exploring its advantages, drawbacks, and ideal uses.
Understanding the 3.5" Chamber Advantage
The key difference between a standard 2 ¾" chamber and a 3.5" chamber lies in its ability to accommodate longer, larger shells. These longer shells hold more powder and shot, resulting in several key performance enhancements:
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Increased Velocity: 3.5" magnum shells deliver significantly higher shot velocities compared to their 2 ¾" counterparts. This translates to flatter trajectories and extended effective range, crucial for long shots at waterfowl or other distant targets.
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Greater Knockdown Power: The increased shot charge and velocity provide superior stopping power, making them ideal for hunting larger game birds or even some upland game, depending on applicable regulations and ethical hunting practices.
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Improved Pattern Density: While not always guaranteed, the increased payload often contributes to denser shot patterns at longer ranges, increasing the probability of a clean kill.
Applications of the Remington 870 3.5" Chamber Barrel
The versatility of the Remington 870, combined with the power of the 3.5" chamber, opens doors to a wide range of applications:
Waterfowl Hunting:
This is arguably the most popular application. The extended range and increased stopping power are invaluable when hunting ducks and geese, especially at significant distances over water. The heavier shot payload is also beneficial in penetrating the dense plumage of these birds.
Turkey Hunting:
While not as universally used as in waterfowl hunting, a 3.5" chamber barrel can be effective for turkey hunting, especially when employing heavier shot loads like lead or tungsten-based options (always check local regulations before hunting). The increased velocity can improve the accuracy of long-range shots.
Home Defense (With Considerations):
While the stopping power is impressive, using a 3.5" magnum shotgun for home defense requires careful consideration. The recoil is considerably greater than with standard shells, potentially impacting accuracy and control in a stressful situation. Over-penetration is also a significant concern, emphasizing the importance of responsible firearm handling and awareness of your surroundings.
Drawbacks of the 3.5" Chamber Barrel
It's essential to acknowledge the downsides of utilizing a 3.5" chamber barrel:
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Increased Recoil: The heavier load results in noticeably stronger recoil, demanding more strength and practice to control effectively. This can be especially challenging for novice shooters.
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Weight and Balance: The barrel itself might be slightly heavier, affecting the overall balance of the shotgun.
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Shell Cost: 3.5" magnum shells are generally more expensive than their 2 ¾" counterparts.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 Barrel
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use a Remington 870 with a 3.5" chamber barrel depends on your specific needs and hunting style. If long-range shooting and increased stopping power are priorities, the 3.5" chamber is a significant asset. However, if recoil management and cost are major concerns, a standard 2 ¾" chamber might be a more suitable choice. Consider your hunting style, target game, and shooting proficiency before making a purchase. Always prioritize safe and responsible firearm handling.
