The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, known for its reliability and versatility. Its youth model in 20 gauge offers young shooters a perfect entry point into the world of shotguns, providing a manageable platform for safe and enjoyable shooting experiences. This guide delves into the specifics of the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge, exploring its features, benefits, and considerations for parents and young shooters alike.
Why Choose a 20 Gauge for Youth?
The 20 gauge offers a compelling compromise for young shooters. It's less powerful than a 12 gauge, resulting in less recoil, making it easier to handle and learn proper shooting techniques. This reduced recoil minimizes the risk of injury and fosters a positive shooting experience, encouraging continued participation and skill development. The lighter weight of the 20 gauge further enhances its suitability for younger and smaller individuals.
Key Features of the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge
The Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge retains the robust design and reliability of its adult counterparts, with several key adaptations for young shooters:
- Reduced Length of Pull (LOP): The stock is shorter, ensuring a proper fit for smaller individuals. This improves comfort, control, and reduces the risk of improper shoulder alignment, which is crucial for safe and accurate shooting.
- Adjustable Stock (Some Models): Some models offer adjustable stocks, allowing for customization as the young shooter grows. This extends the lifespan of the firearm and maintains a proper fit, promoting safe and comfortable handling.
- Lightweight Construction: The overall weight is lighter than adult models, further reducing recoil and improving handling ease for young shooters.
Benefits of the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge
Beyond the reduced size and weight, the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge offers several key advantages:
- Reliability: The Remington 870 platform is renowned for its ruggedness and reliability, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced shooters.
- Versatility: The 870 platform accepts a wide range of accessories and chokes, allowing for adaptability to different shooting disciplines, such as hunting, trap, or skeet.
- Ease of Maintenance: The pump-action design is relatively straightforward to maintain, making it a good choice for both parents and young shooters learning to handle firearms responsibly.
- Safety Features: The Remington 870 incorporates standard safety features, ensuring safe operation when handled correctly. However, always remember thorough instruction and supervised practice are paramount.
Considerations Before Purchase
Before purchasing a Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge, consider the following:
- Proper Fit: Ensure the shotgun fits the young shooter properly. An improper fit can lead to discomfort, inaccurate shooting, and potential injury.
- Professional Guidance: Seek guidance from a firearms instructor or experienced shooter to ensure proper fitting and shooting instruction.
- Safety Training: Prioritize comprehensive firearms safety training before allowing a young shooter to handle the firearm. This is crucial for safe and responsible gun handling.
- Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations concerning firearm ownership and use.
Conclusion
The Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge provides an excellent platform for introducing young people to the world of shotgun shooting. Its manageable size, reduced recoil, and reliable design make it an ideal choice for fostering a positive and safe shooting experience. Remember that responsible gun ownership, proper training, and continuous supervision are essential for the safe and enjoyable use of any firearm. Always prioritize safety and responsible gun handling practices.
