The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. One key area of customization that significantly impacts its functionality is the magazine tube. This article delves into the world of Remington 870 extended tubes, exploring their benefits, considerations, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Why Choose an Extended Tube?
The standard Remington 870 magazine tube holds a limited number of shells, depending on the model. An extended tube dramatically increases your ammunition capacity, offering several crucial advantages:
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Increased Firepower: The most obvious benefit is the ability to fire more shots before reloading, crucial in home defense, hunting scenarios, or competitive shooting. This translates to greater preparedness and a longer engagement window.
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Enhanced Tactical Capabilities: For tactical applications, a higher capacity means less time spent reloading, a critical factor in high-pressure situations. This is especially important in home defense where seconds can matter.
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Hunting Advantages: Hunting often requires carrying a substantial amount of ammunition. An extended tube allows you to carry more shells without needing frequent reloading, increasing your chances of success and reducing interruptions.
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Competitive Shooting: In various shotgun competitions, a larger capacity means more shots on target before needing a reload, providing a clear advantage over competitors.
Types of Remington 870 Extended Tubes
Extended tubes are available in various lengths and configurations:
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Capacity: Extended tubes offer capacities ranging from 5+1 to 10+1 or even more, depending on the manufacturer and tube length. The "+1" refers to the shell in the chamber. The choice of capacity depends heavily on intended use and local regulations. Always check your local laws regarding magazine capacity before purchasing.
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Material: Most extended tubes are constructed from durable steel, often finished with a durable coating for corrosion resistance.
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Finish: You'll find extended tubes in various finishes, including matte black, parkerized, and even cerakote for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
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Compatibility: It is crucial to select an extended tube specifically designed for your Remington 870 model. There are variations in barrel dimensions and threading between different Remington 870 variants (e.g., Wingmaster, Express, Police Magnum). Purchasing the wrong tube can lead to compatibility issues.
Choosing the Right Extended Tube: Factors to Consider
Selecting the optimal extended tube requires careful consideration of several factors:
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Intended Use: The intended use will dictate the required capacity. Home defense might benefit from a shorter, more maneuverable extended tube, while hunting might necessitate a higher capacity.
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Legal Restrictions: Always verify local laws and regulations regarding magazine capacity before purchase. Restrictions vary significantly by location.
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Barrel Length: An excessively long extended tube might make the shotgun cumbersome to handle. Find a balance between capacity and maneuverability.
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Manufacturer Reputation: Opt for reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality, reliable extended tubes.
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Price: Extended tubes range in price. While it's tempting to opt for the cheapest option, prioritize quality and compatibility.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing an extended tube typically involves removing the original tube and replacing it with the extended version. This process usually requires basic gunsmithing tools. While many users can install them at home, if you're uncomfortable working on firearms, consult a qualified gunsmith. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the extended tube are crucial to maintain reliability and prevent malfunctions.
Conclusion
A Remington 870 extended tube is a popular modification offering increased capacity and enhanced versatility. Careful consideration of your needs, legal requirements, and compatibility is vital for selecting the right extended tube to meet your specific needs. Remember to prioritize safety and always follow safe gun handling practices.
