The Remington 870 has long been a staple in the shotgun world, renowned for its reliability and versatility. When it comes to turkey hunting, the Remington 870 3-1/2" chambered model stands out as a powerful and dependable choice for taking down big birds. This article will delve into the features, benefits, and considerations of this popular shotgun, helping you decide if it's the right tool for your next turkey hunt.
The Power of the 3-1/2" Chamber
The key feature differentiating this Remington 870 from its standard counterparts is the 3-1/2" chamber. This allows for the use of extra-powerful magnum turkey loads, packing significantly more energy and delivering devastating stopping power at longer ranges. This is crucial for ethical and successful turkey hunting, where clean, quick kills are paramount. The increased payload translates to larger shot patterns and greater downrange energy, increasing your chances of a successful harvest.
Key Features of the Remington 870 Turkey Gun
Beyond the magnum chamber, several features make the Remington 870 3-1/2" turkey gun a top contender:
Durable Construction:
The Remington 870 is known for its rugged build, capable of withstanding the rigors of the hunting field. Its robust construction ensures reliability even under harsh conditions, making it a dependable firearm for years to come.
Versatile Choke System:
A wide variety of interchangeable chokes are available, allowing you to optimize your shot pattern for different hunting situations and ranges. This adaptability makes the Remington 870 exceptionally versatile for various hunting styles. Choosing the right choke is critical for maximizing your effectiveness.
Easy Maintenance:
The Remington 870 is praised for its straightforward design and ease of maintenance. Cleaning and upkeep are relatively simple, ensuring your shotgun remains in top condition for years of reliable service.
Comfortable Handling:
While the powerful magnum loads deliver impressive stopping power, Remington has designed the 870 to remain manageable and comfortable to handle, even during extended hunting sessions. This contributes to improved accuracy and a more enjoyable hunting experience.
Considerations Before Buying
While the Remington 870 3-1/2" is a fantastic shotgun, it's important to consider these factors:
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Recoil: The powerful magnum loads generate significant recoil. This is important for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil. Consider investing in a recoil pad to mitigate this.
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Weight: The shotgun is heavier than many other options, which can be tiring during long hunts.
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Cost: While a reliable investment, the price point might be higher than some other turkey guns. Consider your budget carefully.
Choosing the Right Accessories
Optimizing your Remington 870 for turkey hunting involves selecting the right accessories:
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Chokes: Experiment with different chokes (like extra-full or full) to find the best pattern for your chosen ammunition.
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Sights: Consider adding fiber optic sights for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
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Scope or Red Dot: While many hunters use open sights, a scope or red dot sight can significantly enhance accuracy at longer ranges.
Conclusion
The Remington 870 3-1/2" chambered turkey gun is a powerful and reliable choice for experienced and novice hunters alike. Its robust design, versatility, and ability to handle powerful magnum loads make it a top contender in the market. However, it's crucial to weigh the recoil and weight before making a purchase. Careful consideration of your needs and budget will ensure you make the best choice for your next turkey hunt. Remember always to practice safe firearm handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
