The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. But even the best firearm can benefit from upgrades, and the stock and forend are prime candidates for customization. Whether you're seeking improved ergonomics, enhanced aesthetics, or specialized functionality, understanding your options for Remington 870 stocks and forends is crucial. This guide dives deep into the various choices available, helping you select the perfect components for your shooting needs and preferences.
Understanding Remington 870 Stock and Forend Options
The Remington 870's modular design allows for a wide array of stock and forend replacements. This flexibility caters to diverse shooting styles, body types, and hunting situations. Here's a breakdown of the key factors to consider:
1. Material:
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Wood: Classic and aesthetically pleasing, wood stocks and forends offer a traditional feel. They can range from basic hardwood to high-grade walnut, impacting both cost and durability. Wood requires more maintenance to prevent cracking and warping.
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Synthetic: Synthetic stocks and forends are highly durable, weather-resistant, and generally more affordable than wood. They offer consistent performance regardless of environmental conditions. Common synthetic materials include polymer and fiberglass-reinforced polymers.
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Aluminum: Less common, but aluminum forends offer exceptional rigidity and heat dissipation, making them preferable for tactical applications or high-volume shooting.
2. Stock Types:
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Standard: The classic straight stock, offering a familiar and comfortable feel for many shooters.
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Pistol Grip: Provides a more compact and maneuverable platform, ideal for close-quarters shooting or tactical applications.
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Tactical/Combatable Stocks: Often feature adjustable cheek rests, pistol grips, and accessory rails for mounting lights, lasers, or other tactical accessories.
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Skeet/Trap Stocks: Designed for specific shooting disciplines, these stocks feature Monte Carlo combs (raised cheek rests) for improved sight alignment.
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Youth/Compact Stocks: Shorter stocks designed to fit smaller individuals, promoting proper gun fit and handling.
3. Forend Types:
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Standard: The typical smooth forend, offering a comfortable grip.
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Tactical/Piston-style: May incorporate Picatinny rails or other mounting points for accessories.
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Speed Loads: Feature a shortened forend to reduce the amount of movement needed for reloading.
4. Features to Consider:
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Recoil Pads: Help to absorb recoil and improve shooting comfort.
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Adjustability: Adjustable cheek rests and length-of-pull (LOP) adjustments allow for customization to the shooter's specific needs.
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Checkering: Textured surfaces on the stock and forend enhance grip.
Choosing the Right Stock and Forend for You
The ideal stock and forend will depend entirely on your individual needs and shooting style. Consider the following:
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Your Body Type and Shooting Style: A proper fit is crucial for comfort and accuracy. A shorter LOP might be needed for smaller shooters, while a longer LOP is better for larger individuals.
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Intended Use: The purpose of your shotgun (hunting, sporting clays, home defense, etc.) will greatly influence your choices.
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Budget: Prices for Remington 870 stocks and forends vary significantly based on material and features.
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Installation: While some stocks and forends are easy to install, others require more expertise or specialized tools.
Maintaining Your Remington 870 Stock and Forend
Regardless of the material, proper care will extend the lifespan of your stock and forend. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and avoiding harsh chemicals are essential. Wood stocks should be oiled periodically, while synthetic stocks should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Remington 870 stock and forend is a great way to personalize your firearm and enhance its performance. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, you can choose components that will improve your shooting experience and maximize the potential of your classic shotgun. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult professional gunsmiths if you are unsure about any aspect of installation or maintenance.
