The Remington 870 shotgun, a legendary firearm known for its reliability and versatility, can be further enhanced with a short stock. This modification significantly impacts the gun's handling and suitability for various applications. This guide delves into the benefits, drawbacks, and considerations of using a Remington 870 with a short stock.
Why Choose a Short Stock for Your Remington 870?
A shortened stock primarily offers improved maneuverability and close-quarters combat (CQB) capabilities. Here's a breakdown of the key advantages:
Enhanced Maneuverability in Tight Spaces:
- Improved Swing Speed: The reduced length allows for quicker target acquisition and smoother transitions between targets. This is crucial in scenarios where rapid response is critical.
- Easier Handling in Confined Areas: Navigating tight spaces, such as inside buildings or vehicles, becomes significantly easier with a shorter stock. The gun's overall length is reduced, preventing snags and improving control.
- Increased Accessibility: A shorter stock can be beneficial for users with shorter arms or those who prefer a more compact firearm.
Specialized Applications:
- Home Defense: In a home defense situation, quick target acquisition and maneuverability are paramount. A short stock greatly enhances the Remington 870's effectiveness in this role.
- Tactical Applications: Law enforcement and military personnel often utilize short-stocked shotguns for their superior handling in CQB environments.
- Hunting (Specific Situations): While less common for general hunting, a short stock might be preferable in dense brush or when navigating tight cover.
Drawbacks of a Short Stock Remington 870
While offering significant advantages, a short stock also presents certain drawbacks:
Reduced Recoil Management:
- Increased Felt Recoil: The shorter length reduces the shooter's ability to absorb recoil effectively, leading to a more noticeable kick. This can impact accuracy and shooting comfort, especially for less experienced shooters.
- Potential for Bruising: The reduced stock length may result in the gun impacting the shooter's face or shoulder more forcefully during recoil.
Compromised Accuracy at Longer Ranges:
- Reduced Sight Radius: The shorter stock decreases the distance between the front and rear sights, making precise aiming at longer distances more challenging.
Legal Considerations:
- Compliance with Local Laws: Always check your local and state laws regarding firearm modifications before installing a short stock. Some jurisdictions may have specific regulations concerning overall length or stock modifications.
Choosing the Right Short Stock for Your Needs
Several factors should be considered when selecting a short stock for your Remington 870:
- Stock Material: Materials like synthetic polymer offer durability and resistance to harsh conditions, while wood stocks provide a classic feel and potentially better recoil absorption.
- Length of Pull: The length of pull (LOP) is the distance from the trigger to the butt pad. Proper LOP is crucial for comfortable and accurate shooting. Experiment to find what suits your body type best.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the chosen stock is fully compatible with your specific Remington 870 model and variant.
- Ergonomics: A comfortable and well-fitting stock is essential for consistent shooting performance. Consider the stock's shape and overall ergonomics to ensure a good fit.
Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons
A short stock for the Remington 870 offers significant benefits in terms of maneuverability and close-quarters handling. However, it's essential to acknowledge the potential drawbacks regarding recoil and longer-range accuracy. Carefully consider your individual needs, shooting style, and local regulations before making a modification. Proper training and practice are essential to become proficient with a short-stocked shotgun. Remember safety is paramount when handling any firearm.
