Understanding the Remington 870 Platform
A Reliable Workhorse
The Remington 870. It’s more than just a shotgun; it’s a legacy. For decades, this pump-action firearm has served as a reliable workhorse for law enforcement, the military, and countless civilian gun owners. Its robust design, simplicity, and affordability have cemented its place as a true American icon. However, even the most dependable firearm can benefit from improvements. In today’s world of firearms customization, upgrading your equipment is commonplace, and few upgrades are as impactful as equipping your Remington 870 with a Magpul Remington 870 Kit. This comprehensive guide will delve deep into the world of Magpul upgrades, exploring their benefits, installation, and why they’re the perfect addition for your already fantastic shotgun.
Versatility and Adoption
Before diving into the specifics of Magpul Remington 870 Kits, it’s essential to appreciate the foundation upon which these upgrades are built. The Remington 870’s story is one of evolution and adaptation. First introduced in the early nineteen-fifties, the 870 quickly gained recognition for its durability and straightforward operation. Its design, featuring a solid receiver, a reliable pump-action mechanism, and the ability to handle various shell lengths, cemented its popularity.
This versatility extended to the firearm’s adoption across a wide spectrum of applications. From its role in military conflicts to its presence in police cruisers, the Remington 870 earned a reputation for dependability under pressure. Its widespread adoption by civilians for home defense and hunting further solidified its position as a staple in the firearms community.
Customizability
The 870’s enduring appeal lies in its adaptability. It readily accepts a wide array of accessories and modifications, allowing owners to tailor their shotguns to their specific needs and preferences. Understanding this core design and the customizable nature of the 870 sets the stage for the enhancements that Magpul Remington 870 Kits bring to the table. It is this inherent ability to adapt that makes the Remington 870 and its associated accessories such an excellent choice for modification and improvement.
What is a Magpul Remington 870 Kit?
Defining the Kit
So, what exactly is a Magpul Remington 870 Kit? Essentially, it’s a collection of high-quality accessories designed by Magpul Industries to enhance the ergonomics, handling, and overall performance of your Remington 870. These kits offer a streamlined approach to upgrading your shotgun, providing the essential components to transform its feel and functionality.
The core components typically included within a Magpul Remington 870 Kit usually include the forend, which, is also commonly referred to as the handguard, and the stock. These upgrades often significantly improve the shooter’s control, and the overall handling characteristics of the firearm.
The Forend
The forend is where the shooter’s support hand will grip the weapon. Magpul offers various forend models designed specifically for the 870, typically constructed from a durable, reinforced polymer. Features like textured surfaces and optimized ergonomics give the shooter a better grip, offering enhanced control during cycling and recoil management. These forends are a huge step up from the basic, often slick, factory forends found on most Remington 870 models.
The Stock
The stock is another critical element of the kit. Magpul’s SGA stock, is a popular choice for Remington 870 owners. This stock usually features multiple adjustment points, allowing shooters to customize the length of pull for a more comfortable and effective shooting position. The SGA stock commonly includes a cheek riser to improve sight alignment, allowing for quicker and more accurate target acquisition. The Magpul SGA stock is known for its durability, comfort, and adjustability. It represents a significant upgrade over the factory stocks on most Remington 870s.
Additional Components
Beyond these primary components, a Magpul Remington 870 Kit may include additional accessories to enhance functionality and aesthetics. This might consist of a magazine tube clamp which helps to secure the magazine tube to the barrel of the firearm, or other accessories like a barrel rail. However, the forend and the stock are the essential upgrades.
Benefits of Upgrading with a Magpul Kit
Improved Ergonomics
One of the most immediate and noticeable advantages is the improvement in ergonomics. The thoughtfully designed forend and stock work together to optimize the shooter’s interface with the firearm. The forend, with its textured surface, provides a more secure grip, especially in adverse conditions such as rain or sweat. This enhanced grip minimizes the risk of slippage and promotes more confident control.
The adjustable stock is a game-changer. The ability to customize the length of pull ensures a proper fit for shooters of different sizes and body types. This proper fit is paramount for comfort, allowing the shooter to shoulder the shotgun effectively and maintain a consistent shooting posture. This results in reduced strain, improved recoil absorption, and increased overall comfort during extended shooting sessions.
Enhanced Handling and Control
Beyond the ergonomic benefits, a Magpul Remington 870 Kit significantly boosts handling and control. The improved grip afforded by the forend contributes to more confident cycling of the action. Whether you’re reloading after firing, or clearing a malfunction, the better grip provides better leverage, and the overall result is greater control.
For home defense, the ability to quickly and accurately maneuver the shotgun is vital. For competitive shooting, speed is of the essence. The ergonomic improvements offered by a Magpul kit contribute to both.
Durability and Reliability
Magpul has built its reputation on creating rugged, reliable products that are engineered to perform under demanding conditions. The materials used in Magpul Remington 870 Kits, typically reinforced polymers, are exceptionally durable. These materials are resistant to impacts, abrasion, and environmental factors. This results in long-lasting performance, extending the life of your shotgun and providing a solid investment.
The modular design of Magpul accessories also enhances reliability. Their parts are designed to fit together with precision, minimizing the chance of malfunctions or failures. The robustness of Magpul components provides peace of mind, knowing that your shotgun will perform when you need it most.
Customization and Personalization
Beyond functionality, a Magpul Remington 870 Kit opens the door to a world of customization. Magpul offers its accessories in a range of colors and finishes. This allows shooters to personalize their shotguns to match their individual tastes or to blend seamlessly with their tactical gear.
Optional accessories allow for the further enhancement of functionality, such as the installation of QD sling mounts. This level of customization isn’t just cosmetic; it reflects the individual shooter’s preferences and needs, creating a shotgun that truly represents the owner.
Installation and Compatibility
Installation Process
Installing a Magpul Remington 870 Kit is generally a straightforward process, designed to be manageable for individuals with basic mechanical skills. The installation process typically involves removing the factory forend and stock and replacing them with the Magpul components.
Tools needed often include a screwdriver, and possibly a wrench. Be sure to consult Magpul’s provided instructions or any number of online video tutorials available, which usually provide detailed step-by-step guides.
Compatibility Considerations
It’s crucial to address compatibility considerations. While the Remington 870 platform is largely standardized, some variations exist, particularly concerning receiver types. Ensure the Magpul Remington 870 Kit you select is specifically designed for your particular model to guarantee a perfect fit and optimal performance. Checking the product description or contacting Magpul directly are reliable ways to confirm compatibility.
Comparison: Magpul Kit versus Other Upgrades
When considering upgrades for your Remington 870, it’s important to compare the available options. While numerous aftermarket manufacturers offer shotgun accessories, Magpul Remington 870 Kits often stand out for their balance of performance, quality, and value.
Magpul products are typically priced competitively within the firearms accessory market. The quality of their materials and the thought that goes into their designs provide good value for the money.
Although there might be alternatives on the market, Magpul’s reputation for excellence, their well-designed products, and the simplicity of the upgrade process makes it a compelling choice for most shooters. Magpul consistently delivers improvements that justify their cost, and that enhance the overall enjoyment and effectiveness of your Remington 870.
Where to Buy a Magpul Remington 870 Kit
Acquiring a Magpul Remington 870 Kit is made easy through a variety of channels. Reputable online retailers specializing in firearms accessories usually offer a wide selection of Magpul products. Established gun stores with a strong online presence often carry Magpul items.
Consider both pricing and shipping costs when shopping. Regularly check for deals and discounts, especially during holidays or special events. Compare prices from various retailers to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Remington 870 with a Magpul Kit is a wise investment for anyone seeking to enhance the functionality, comfort, and overall performance of their shotgun. The ergonomic improvements, enhanced handling characteristics, durability, and customization options offered by these kits are significant.
By improving ergonomics, Magpul’s forends and stocks directly benefit your shooting experience. They’ll make your Remington 870 easier to handle, allowing for faster target acquisition and more controlled recoil management.
If you are considering upgrading your Remington 870, research different Magpul Remington 870 Kit options, and find the components that best meet your needs. A well-equipped shotgun is a more effective and enjoyable firearm.
