The Remington 870 shotgun, a legendary firearm known for its reliability and versatility, relies heavily on its interchangeable choke tubes to optimize its performance for various shooting situations. Understanding Remington 870 choke tubes is crucial for any owner, whether a seasoned hunter or a novice shooter. This guide will delve into the intricacies of these tubes, helping you choose the right ones for your needs and ensuring safe and effective operation.
Understanding Choke Tubes and Their Function
Before diving into specific Remington 870 choke tubes, let's establish a foundational understanding of their purpose. Choke tubes are cylindrical devices inserted into the muzzle of a shotgun barrel. They constrict the diameter of the barrel, influencing the pattern of shot pellets as they exit. This pattern, or shot spread, is vital for achieving accuracy at varying distances.
Key Considerations When Choosing Choke Tubes:
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Shot Size: The shot size you use significantly impacts the best choke choice. Smaller shot sizes (like #8 or #9) benefit from tighter chokes for longer-range targets, while larger shot sizes (like 00 buck) might require more open chokes for closer targets.
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Target Distance: The distance to your target dictates the necessary choke constriction. Longer-range shots require tighter chokes for a concentrated pattern, whereas closer targets benefit from wider patterns provided by more open chokes.
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Game Type: Different game requires different shot patterns. Small, fast-moving birds might necessitate a tighter choke for precision, while larger game like deer might benefit from a more open choke for a wider spread of 00 buckshot.
Common Remington 870 Choke Tube Types and Their Applications
Remington 870 choke tubes are typically identified by their constriction, often expressed in inches or fractions thereof. Here's a breakdown of common types:
1. Cylinder Bore (CYL):
- Constriction: No constriction.
- Pattern: Produces the widest shot pattern, ideal for very close-range shooting, such as close-range hunting or trap shooting.
2. Improved Cylinder (IC):
- Constriction: Slightly constricted.
- Pattern: Provides a wider pattern than modified or full chokes, suitable for close to medium-range shooting. Popular for hunting smaller game birds at closer ranges.
3. Modified (MOD):
- Constriction: Moderately constricted.
- Pattern: Offers a good balance between pattern density and range, effective for medium-range shooting and various game types. A versatile choice for many hunting situations.
4. Improved Modified (IM):
- Constriction: More constriction than Modified.
- Pattern: Provides a tighter pattern than Modified, suitable for longer ranges and smaller, faster game.
5. Full (F):
- Constriction: The tightest constriction.
- Pattern: Creates the tightest and most concentrated shot pattern, ideal for long-range shooting and waterfowl hunting.
6. Extra Full (XF):
- Constriction: Tighter than Full.
- Pattern: Offers an extremely tight pattern, suitable for very long-range shooting, though less versatile.
Choosing the Right Choke Tube for Your Remington 870
Selecting the appropriate choke tube depends entirely on your intended use. Consider these factors:
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Hunting: For waterfowl at long ranges, a Full or Extra Full choke is usually best. For upland birds at moderate distances, a Modified or Improved Modified is often preferred. For larger game at closer ranges, a more open choke like Improved Cylinder or even Cylinder might be appropriate.
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Target Shooting: The choice here depends on the specific discipline, such as trap, skeet, or sporting clays. Each discipline has its own optimal choke recommendations.
Important Note: Always consult your Remington 870's owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions regarding choke tube installation and removal. Improper handling can lead to damage to the firearm or personal injury.
Maintaining Your Remington 870 Choke Tubes
Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Remington 870 choke tubes. After each shooting session, clean the tubes thoroughly to remove any residue. Store them in a safe, dry place to prevent corrosion.
This comprehensive guide provides a strong foundation for understanding Remington 870 choke tubes. Remember, practice and experimentation with different chokes are essential to determine what works best for your specific shooting style and circumstances. Safe and responsible shooting is paramount.
