Which Remington 870 Is Suitable For Home Defense

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Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on choosing the right Remington 870 shotgun for home defense. In this article, we will explore the various factors to consider when selecting a shotgun for protecting your home and loved ones. The Remington 870 is a highly popular and reliable choice among firearms enthusiasts and is renowned for its durability and performance. Whether you are a seasoned gun owner or a first-time buyer, understanding the key features and options of the Remington 870 will help you make an informed decision.

When it comes to home defense, having a reliable shotgun at your disposal can provide you with the peace of mind and confidence needed to protect your family and property. Shotguns are highly effective at close quarters and can deliver a powerful blast capable of incapacitating an intruder. With the wide range of Remington 870 models available, it is essential to understand the key factors to consider so that you can select the most suitable option for your specific needs.

Throughout this guide, we will delve into the various features that differentiate the different Remington 870 models. These features include barrel length and type, capacity and magazine options, stock options and length of pull, sights and optics, as well as additional features specifically tailored for home defense.

It is important to note that while shotguns are a popular choice for home defense, proper training and knowledge of firearm safety should always be prioritized. Understanding the laws and regulations in your area is also crucial to ensure responsible ownership and storage. With that said, let’s dive into the factors to consider when selecting a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense.

Factors to Consider for Home Defense Shotguns

When choosing a shotgun for home defense, there are several key factors to consider. These factors will help you determine the most effective shotgun for your specific needs and circumstances. Let’s explore these factors in more detail:

1. Reliability: One of the most important factors to consider is the reliability of the shotgun. In a home defense situation, you need a firearm that you can depend on to function flawlessly when you need it most. The Remington 870 has a well-established reputation for its reliability, making it a popular choice among experienced shooters.
2. Barrel Length: The length of the shotgun’s barrel plays a significant role in its effectiveness for home defense. A shorter barrel offers greater maneuverability in tight spaces, such as hallways or rooms, while a longer barrel provides improved accuracy and increased muzzle velocity. Consider the layout of your home and your specific needs when selecting the barrel length of your Remington 870.
3. Capacity: Another crucial factor to consider is the shotgun’s capacity. The Remington 870 is available in various magazine capacities, from four rounds up to extended magazine options. Higher capacity shotguns allow for more rounds to be loaded, ensuring that you have enough ammunition to handle potential threats without needing to reload frequently.
4. Stock Options: The stock of a shotgun plays a significant role in ergonomics and recoil management. The Remington 870 offers different stock options, including traditional fixed stocks, adjustable stocks, and pistol grip stocks. Consider your personal preference and comfort when selecting the stock type for your Remington 870.
5. Sights and Optics: Having an effective sighting system is crucial for accurate shot placement, especially in high-stress situations. The Remington 870 comes with different sight options, including bead sights and ghost ring sights. Additionally, you can also mount red dot optics or scopes for enhanced accuracy and target acquisition.
6. Additional Features: There are several additional features to consider when selecting a Remington 870 for home defense. These include options like ambidextrous controls, integrated rail systems for accessories, and tactical forends for enhanced grip and control. Assess your specific needs and preferences to determine which additional features are essential for your home-defense shotgun.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select the most suitable Remington 870 model for your home defense needs. Remember to prioritize safety, practice proper firearm handling, and familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations. In the next section, we will provide an overview of the different Remington 870 models available for home defense.

Overview of the Remington 870

The Remington 870 is a pump-action shotgun that has been in production for over six decades. It has earned a solid reputation for its reliability, durability, and versatility. The 870 is widely regarded as one of the most popular and trusted shotguns among both law enforcement and civilian shooters.

Featuring a rugged steel receiver and a smooth pump-action mechanism, the Remington 870 offers consistent and reliable performance in various shooting conditions. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use and handle a wide range of ammunition types.

The Remington 870 is available in a variety of models, each offering unique features to suit different shooting preferences and applications. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable home-defense shotgun or an experienced shooter in search of a versatile firearm for hunting or sport shooting, there is a Remington 870 model to meet your needs.

One of the key advantages of the Remington 870 is its modular nature, which allows for easy customization and accessory attachment. The shotgun is equipped with a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories, including stocks, barrels, magazine extensions, and sight systems. This flexibility enables shooters to tailor their Remington 870 to their specific requirements and preferences.

The Remington 870 is renowned for its smooth and reliable pump-action operation, making it well-suited for high-stress situations like home defense. The pump-action mechanism is simple to use and offers a distinctive sound that can serve as an effective deterrent. It also provides the shooter with the ability to manually cycle the action, ensuring immediate readiness for the next shot.

With its solid reputation, robust construction, and extensive aftermarket support, the Remington 870 continues to be a top choice for shooters seeking a versatile and reliable shotgun. Whether you’re using it for home defense, hunting, or sport shooting, the Remington 870 delivers consistent performance and proven dependability.

In the next section, we will compare the different Remington 870 models to help you choose the most suitable option for your home-defense needs.

Comparison of Remington 870 Models for Home Defense

The Remington 870 is available in various models, each offering distinct features and configurations tailored for different applications. When selecting a Remington 870 for home defense, it’s essential to consider the specific characteristics of each model to determine which one best suits your needs. Let’s compare some of the key factors for home-defense shotguns:

1. Barrel Length and Type: The Remington 870 models designed for home defense typically come with barrel lengths ranging from 18 to 20 inches. These shorter barrels provide improved maneuverability indoors without sacrificing too much velocity or accuracy. Additionally, they often feature cylinder or improved cylinder choke configurations for wide and even shot patterns at close ranges.
2. Capacity and Magazine Options: Home-defense shotguns are commonly available with magazine capacities that range from 4 to 7 rounds. Some models include extended magazine options, allowing for additional rounds to be loaded without the need for frequent reloading. Keep in mind that some jurisdictions may have restrictions on magazine capacity, so be sure to familiarize yourself with local laws.
3. Stock Options and Length of Pull: Most Remington 870 models for home defense come with traditional fixed stocks or adjustable stocks. Fixed stocks provide a familiar and comfortable shooting experience, while adjustable stocks allow for customization to accommodate different body sizes and preferences. It’s crucial to consider the length of pull that best suits your physique for optimal control and comfort when shooting.
4. Sights and Optics: The sights on home-defense Remington 870 models commonly include bead sights or ghost ring sights. Bead sights are simple and intuitive, while ghost ring sights provide faster target acquisition and a more precise aiming point. Additionally, many models have integrated Picatinny or M-Lok accessory rails, allowing for the attachment of red dot optics or other sighting devices for enhanced accuracy and target acquisition.
5. Additional Features: Some Remington 870 models designed for home defense come with extra features to improve functionality and ease of use. These may include features such as extended controls for easy manipulation, integrated sling attachment points, and tactical forends for improved grip and control. Consider which additional features are essential for your specific needs and shooting style.

By comparing these factors, you can select the Remington 870 model that best aligns with your preferences and requirements for home defense. Remember, it’s important to prioritize reliability, ease of use, and comfort when choosing a shotgun for protecting your home and loved ones. Now, let’s move on to discussing the importance of barrel length and type for home defense shotguns.

Barrel Length and Type

When choosing a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense, one of the critical factors to consider is the barrel length and type. The barrel plays a significant role in the overall effectiveness and maneuverability of the shotgun in close-quarters situations. Let’s take a closer look at the importance of barrel length and type when selecting a shotgun for home defense.

Barrel Length: The barrel length directly affects the overall length and maneuverability of the shotgun. For home defense purposes, shorter barrels are generally preferred due to their increased maneuverability in tight spaces such as hallways or rooms. Shorter barrels provide easier maneuverability around corners and offer quicker target acquisition in high-stress situations. The most common barrel lengths for home defense shotguns are typically between 18 to 20 inches, striking a balance between compactness and the ability to deliver effective shots.

Barrel Type: The barrel type refers to the internal configuration of the barrel, which can affect the trajectory and spread of the shotgun pellets. The two most common barrel types for Remington 870 shotguns used in home defense are cylinder bore and improved cylinder bore. A cylinder bore is the most open configuration without any constriction, resulting in a wider shot pattern, making it ideal for close-quarters engagements. An improved cylinder bore has a slight constriction, providing a slightly tighter shot pattern, offering a good balance between spread and effective range.

It’s important to consider the layout of your home and the typical engagement distances you may encounter in a home defense situation. If you have long hallways or need to engage targets at longer distances within your property, a barrel with a slightly tighter choke, such as an improved cylinder bore, may be preferable to ensure effective shot placement without excessive over-penetration.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that some Remington 870 models for home defense feature interchangeable choke systems, allowing you to modify the choke configuration based on your specific needs. This flexibility can be advantageous if you anticipate varied engagement distances or if you have preferences for different shooting situations.

To summarize, for home defense purposes, consider a Remington 870 shotgun with a shorter barrel length (around 18 to 20 inches) for increased maneuverability in close-quarters engagements. Additionally, choose a barrel type that suits your typical engagement distances and desired shot spread, with cylinder bore and improved cylinder bore being common choices.

Next, we will discuss the importance of capacity and magazine options when selecting a Remington 870 for home defense.

Look for a Remington 870 with a shorter barrel (around 18 inches) for better maneuverability in tight spaces. A model with a pistol grip and adjustable stock can also improve control and comfort for home defense.

Capacity and Magazine Options

When considering a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense, an important factor to assess is its capacity and magazine options. The capacity of a shotgun determines the number of rounds it can hold, while the magazine options define the types of magazines that can be used. Let’s examine these factors in more detail.

Capacity: The capacity of a home defense shotgun is a critical consideration, as it determines the number of rounds you can fire without reloading. Remington 870 shotguns designed for home defense commonly come in various capacity options, ranging from 4 to 7 rounds. A higher capacity can be beneficial in situations where you may encounter multiple threats or if a prolonged engagement is necessary. It reduces the need for frequent reloading and provides peace of mind during high-stress encounters.

The capacity of a shotgun is typically dependent on the length and configuration of the magazine tube. Longer magazine tubes generally allow for more rounds to be loaded. However, it’s important to be aware of any legal restrictions on magazine capacity in your jurisdiction. Some areas may impose limits on the maximum number of rounds a shotgun can hold.

Magazine Options: The Remington 870 offers a variety of magazine options to suit different shooting preferences and legal requirements. The most common magazine type for a home defense shotgun is the tubular magazine, which is located under the barrel. Tubular magazines can accommodate the ammunition required for home defense purposes and are easy to reload during downtime.

It’s also worth noting that some Remington 870 models are compatible with extended magazine options. These extended magazines often allow for additional rounds to be loaded, providing an increased capacity without sacrificing the overall length or maneuverability of the shotgun. However, it is essential to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations regarding magazine extensions, as some areas may have restrictions on their use.

When selecting a Remington 870 for home defense, consider the capacity that best suits your needs, taking into account factors such as the likelihood of multiple threats and local regulations. Additionally, assess the magazine options available for the model you are considering and how they align with your requirements for capacity and ease of reloading.

In the next section, we will discuss the importance of stock options and length of pull when choosing a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense.

Stock Options and Length of Pull

When selecting a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense, two important factors to consider are the stock options and the length of pull. The stock of a shotgun plays a crucial role in comfort, control, and overall shooting experience. Let’s explore the significance of stock options and length of pull in more detail.

Stock Options: Remington 870 shotguns designed for home defense typically offer a range of stock options to accommodate different shooter preferences and shooting styles. The stock is the part of the shotgun that rests against your shoulder and provides stability and control while aiming and firing.

Common stock options for Remington 870 shotguns include:

• Traditional Fixed Stock: A traditional fixed stock is the standard stock found on most shotguns. It offers a secure and familiar shooting experience. This type of stock is ideal for shooters who prefer a classic look and feel.
• Adjustable Stock: Many modern Remington 870 models come with adjustable stocks, allowing shooters to customize the length of pull (LOP). LOP refers to the distance between the trigger and the rear surface of the stock. Adjustable stocks can be shortened or lengthened to accommodate shooters of different sizes or preferences, providing a more personalized fit and improved control.
• Pistol Grip Stock: Some Remington 870 models offer pistol grip stocks, which replace the traditional buttstock with a grip similar to that of a handgun. Pistol grip stocks provide a different shooting grip and can enhance control and maneuverability in close-quarters situations.

When choosing a stock option for your home defense shotgun, consider your shooting style, preferred grip, and overall comfort. It’s essential to select a stock that allows you to maintain a secure and stable shooting position, enabling quick and accurate target acquisition.

Length of Pull: The length of pull (LOP) refers to the distance from the trigger to the rear surface of the stock. The LOP should be suitable for your physique to ensure proper alignment of your eye with the sights and consistent shot placement. A stock with an inappropriate LOP can result in discomfort, compromised accuracy, and reduced control while shooting.

Remington 870 shotguns with adjustable stocks offer the advantage of customizing the LOP to fit your specific needs. This is particularly important if the shotgun will be used by multiple individuals with different body sizes within your household.

When shouldering the shotgun, ensure that the stock allows a comfortable and consistent positioning of your eye in line with the sights or optics. This promotes proper sight alignment and helps you acquire targets quickly and accurately in high-stress situations, which is crucial for effective home defense.

Consider your preferred stock type and ensure that the length of pull is appropriate for your physique when selecting a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense. A comfortable and properly fitting stock will enhance control, stability, and overall shooting performance.

In the next section, we will discuss the importance of sights and optics on a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense.

Sights and Optics

When it comes to selecting a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense, the sights and optics play a crucial role in accurate target acquisition and shot placement. Having an effective sighting system can greatly enhance your ability to quickly and accurately engage threats in high-stress situations. Let’s explore the importance of sights and optics when choosing a home defense shotgun.

Sights: The Remington 870 shotguns designed for home defense commonly come equipped with different types of sights. These sights provide a reference point for aiming and help align the shotgun with the intended target. The two primary types of sights found on these shotguns are:

• Bead Sights: Bead sights are the simplest and most common type of shotgun sight. They consist of a small metal or fiber optic bead at the end of the barrel. Bead sights are intuitive to use and provide a quick sight picture. However, they do not offer precise aiming points and are best suited for close-quarters engagements.
• Ghost Ring Sights: Ghost ring sights are a popular choice for home defense shotguns. They consist of a rear sight with a large aperture and a smaller front sight. The larger rear aperture allows for rapid target acquisition, while the smaller front sight provides a more precise aiming point. Ghost ring sights enable faster sight alignment and improved accuracy compared to bead sights.

The choice between bead sights and ghost ring sights depends on your shooting preference and expected engagement distances. Bead sights are quick to acquire and work well for close-quarters situations, while ghost ring sights provide quicker target acquisition and enhanced precision for engagements at slightly longer ranges.

Optics: In addition to traditional iron sights, Remington 870 shotguns can also be equipped with various optics for improved accuracy and target acquisition. Optics such as red dot sights or low-powered scopes can be mounted on the shotgun’s receiver or on an accessory rail system.

Red dot sights, in particular, are popular among home defense shooters due to their ease of use and quick target acquisition. These sights project a small dot onto a viewing window, allowing for rapid sight alignment and accurate shots. Red dot sights offer a clear and unobstructed sight picture, making them ideal for high-stress situations where fast target acquisition is crucial.

When considering the use of optics on your Remington 870 shotgun, it’s important to ensure compatibility with the specific model or aftermarket accessories designed for the shotgun. Additionally, consider the size, weight, and battery life of the optic, as well as the type of reticle or dot pattern that best suits your shooting needs.

By selecting the appropriate sights or optics for your home defense shotgun, you can greatly enhance your ability to quickly and accurately engage threats. Bead sights and ghost ring sights offer practical solutions for shotgun aiming, while red dot sights and scopes provide improved precision and target acquisition. Choose the option that aligns with your shooting style, preferences, and anticipated engagement distances.

In the next section, we will discuss additional features that are specifically tailored for home defense shotguns.

Additional Features for Home Defense

When selecting a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense, there are several additional features that can enhance its effectiveness and usability in high-stress situations. These features are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of home defense scenarios. Let’s explore some of these additional features:

• Ambidextrous Controls: Home defense shotguns equipped with ambidextrous controls are designed to be easily operated by both right-handed and left-handed individuals. This feature allows for quick and intuitive manipulation of the shotgun’s safety, slide release, and other controls, ensuring optimal usability regardless of the shooter’s dominant hand.
• Integrated Accessory Rails: Some Remington 870 models come with integrated accessory rails, such as Picatinny or M-Lok, along the forearm or receiver. These rails allow you to attach various accessories, such as weapon lights, lasers, or vertical grips. Adding these accessories can enhance target acquisition, low-light visibility, and overall control of the shotgun.
• Tactical Forends: Tactical forends are specially designed foregrips that offer improved grip and control over the shotgun. They often feature textured surfaces or checkering that enhances traction and stability during rapid fire. Tactical forends can help mitigate recoil and allow for more precise manipulation of the shotgun.
• Extended Controls: Some Remington 870 models may offer extended controls, such as an enlarged safety button or slide release. These extended controls make it easier to operate the shotgun under stress or while wearing gloves, ensuring quick and reliable access to critical functions.
• Side Saddle Shell Holders: Side saddle shell holders are accessory attachments that allow for quick access to additional shotgun shells. These holders are typically mounted on the receiver of the shotgun and provide convenient storage of extra rounds for reloading on the fly. Having spare rounds readily accessible can be crucial in prolonged or rapidly evolving home defense situations.

These additional features can greatly enhance the usability, control, and tactical advantage of your Remington 870 shotgun in a home defense scenario. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, you may find that one or more of these features are essential for your home defense setup.

Remember to carefully assess your requirements and train with any additional features you choose to incorporate. Familiarity and proficiency with the shotgun and its accessories are crucial for effective and safe use in high-stress situations.

Now that we’ve explored the various features and considerations for selecting a Remington 870 shotgun for home defense, let’s summarize our findings in the concluding section.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Remington 870 shotgun for home defense requires careful consideration of various factors. By evaluating the features discussed in this guide, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

Reliability is paramount in a home defense shotgun, and the Remington 870 is known for its durability and consistent performance. Whether you opt for a traditional fixed stock or an adjustable stock, ensure that the length of pull suits your physique for optimal control and comfort.

The barrel length and type should be chosen based on the layout of your home and expected engagement distances. Shorter barrels offer maneuverability in tight spaces, while the barrel type influences shot patterns and effective range.

Capacity and magazine options are critical considerations. Higher capacity shotguns reduce the need for frequent reloading and ensure you have enough rounds for potential threats. Be mindful of any legal restrictions on magazine capacity in your area.

Sights and optics play a significant role in accurate target acquisition. Bead sights and ghost ring sights provide different advantages for close-quarters engagements, while red dot sights and scopes offer enhanced precision and target tracking.

Finally, consider additional features that cater specifically to home defense, such as ambidextrous controls, integrated accessory rails, tactical forends, extended controls, and side saddle shell holders. These features can greatly improve the usability and tactical advantage of your shotgun in intense situations.

Remember, responsible gun ownership and adherence to firearms safety measures are of utmost importance. Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations regarding firearm ownership, storage, and use. Seek proper training and practice regularly to ensure you can effectively and safely handle your Remington 870 shotgun.

With careful consideration of these factors and a thorough understanding of your specific requirements, you can confidently select the best Remington 870 shotgun for your home defense needs. Stay safe, be prepared, and may your Remington 870 serve as a reliable and effective tool in protecting your loved ones and property.