The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. Adding a slug barrel transforms this workhorse into a capable deer hunting or home defense tool. This guide dives deep into the specifics of the Remington 870 20 gauge slug barrel, exploring its features, benefits, considerations, and what to look for when purchasing one.
Why Choose a 20 Gauge Slug Barrel for your Remington 870?
While the 12 gauge remains the dominant choice for slug guns, the 20 gauge offers compelling advantages:
- Reduced Recoil: This is a significant benefit, especially for newer or less experienced shooters. The lighter recoil makes for a more comfortable shooting experience, leading to better accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
- Lighter Weight: A 20 gauge slug barrel, and the shotgun itself, will be noticeably lighter than its 12 gauge counterpart. This is crucial for hunters who will be carrying their weapon for extended periods.
- Maneuverability: The lighter weight contributes to improved maneuverability, making it easier to handle in tight quarters or dense brush. This is a distinct advantage for home defense scenarios.
- Less Noise: While still loud, the 20 gauge generally produces a slightly softer report than a 12 gauge, reducing ear fatigue during shooting sessions.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 20 Gauge Slug Barrel: Key Considerations
Several factors should inform your decision when selecting a slug barrel for your Remington 870:
- Barrel Length: Longer barrels (20-28 inches) generally offer greater accuracy due to improved sight radius and better velocity. Shorter barrels (18 inches or less) are more compact and easier to handle in close quarters, though they sacrifice some accuracy. Consider your intended use – hunting or home defense – when making this decision.
- Sight Configuration: Many slug barrels come equipped with rifle sights (ghost ring or bead sights), which are significantly better for accuracy at longer ranges than the standard shotgun bead. Some even accommodate scope mounts, for even greater precision. Choosing the right sight is critical for effective shooting.
- Choke: While not all slug barrels are choked, some offer various choke options. This mainly impacts the pattern of slugs, not necessarily accuracy. For slugs, a cylinder bore is generally preferred.
- Materials: Most Remington 870 slug barrels are constructed from high-quality steel, but ensure it's suitable for the pressure of slugs.
Ammunition Considerations for your 20 Gauge Slug Barrel
Selecting the right ammunition is as crucial as choosing the correct barrel. Consider these factors:
- Slug Type: Several slug types exist, including rifled slugs (designed for rifled barrels), foster slugs (for smoothbore barrels), and sabot slugs (which enclose a smaller slug for better accuracy). Your barrel type will determine the best slug choice.
- Velocity: Higher velocity slugs generally offer flatter trajectories and greater range. However, this may also increase recoil.
- Accuracy Testing: It's highly recommended to test various ammunition types with your specific firearm and barrel to determine what performs best in your setup.
Maintaining your Remington 870 20 Gauge Slug Barrel
Proper maintenance is vital for ensuring the longevity and performance of your firearm:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your barrel after each use, removing any residue or fouling.
- Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts to prevent wear and tear.
- Safe Storage: Store your firearm in a safe, dry place to prevent corrosion.
Conclusion:
The Remington 870 20 gauge slug barrel offers a compelling alternative to the more common 12 gauge. Its reduced recoil, lighter weight, and maneuverability make it an excellent choice for hunters and home defenders alike. By carefully considering barrel length, sight configuration, and ammunition type, you can optimize the performance of your Remington 870 for your specific needs. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and prioritize responsible firearm ownership.
