Unlocking Precision: The Advantages of an 870 20 Gauge Slug Barrel
The Remington 870 shotgun is a legend. For generations, it has been a trusted firearm, renowned for its reliability, durability, and adaptability. Within the diverse world of shotguns, the 870 holds a special place, a cornerstone of hunting, home defense, and recreational shooting. In recent years, the 20 gauge has surged in popularity, celebrated for its manageable recoil, lighter weight, and overall ease of handling, making it an excellent choice for shooters of varying experience levels. Pairing this compact caliber with the inherent flexibility of the 870 platform, the addition of an 870 20 gauge slug barrel unlocks a new level of precision and performance, transforming a general-purpose shotgun into a specialized long-range tool.
This article dives deep into the 870 20 gauge slug barrel, offering a comprehensive understanding of its benefits, types, selection considerations, installation, usage, and maintenance. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter looking to tighten your groups, a home defender prioritizing accuracy, or a target shooter seeking optimal performance, this guide provides the essential information to enhance your 870 experience.
The primary reason to consider an 870 20 gauge slug barrel is undeniably accuracy. Standard shotgun barrels are designed for patterns of pellets. A slug barrel, however, is engineered specifically for firing single projectiles – slugs – and does so with significantly greater precision. The unique design characteristics of a slug barrel, whether rifled or smoothbore, directly address the limitations of smoothbore barrels when firing slugs.
The incorporation of rifling is a key element in increasing accuracy. Rifling is the set of spiraling grooves cut into the interior of the barrel. These grooves cause the slug to spin as it travels down the barrel. This rotation, much like a football thrown with a spiral, stabilizes the slug in flight, minimizing tumbling and improving its trajectory. The end result is tighter groupings and a more predictable point of impact.
The gains in accuracy are substantial. While a smoothbore barrel may produce acceptable accuracy at close ranges, a slug barrel dramatically extends the effective range of the 20 gauge. This means you can confidently engage targets at distances that would be impractical with a standard barrel.
Beyond enhanced accuracy, the 870 20 gauge slug barrel offers other notable advantages. The extended range is a clear benefit for both hunting and target shooting. With a rifled barrel, you can effectively engage targets at a distance, making it a viable option for various hunting scenarios, including deer or wild hog hunting.
The 870 20 gauge slug barrel also presents a considerable advantage regarding versatility. The ability to switch between birdshot or buckshot loads and slugs, depending on your specific need, makes the 870 a flexible firearm. You can readily adapt to different shooting environments and target types by simply changing the barrel and ammunition. This adaptability is a key strength of the 870 platform, and a slug barrel extends that flexibility even further.
The added benefits of slug barrels can extend to sight acquisition and optic mounting. Many slug barrels come with pre-mounted sights, often rifle sights or cantilever mounts designed for attaching scopes or red dot sights. This simplifies the process of adding optics and makes target acquisition quicker and more precise.
Exploring the Landscape: Types of 870 20 Gauge Slug Barrels
Choosing the right 870 20 gauge slug barrel requires understanding the various available options. The two primary categories are rifled slug barrels and smoothbore slug barrels.
Rifled slug barrels are the most common and typically the best choice for maximizing accuracy. As described previously, the rifling in these barrels imparts a spin to the slug, which stabilizes it in flight. This is crucial for achieving tight groupings at longer ranges. Rifled slug barrels are designed to work most effectively with “sabot slugs.” These slugs are typically encased in a plastic sleeve, which separates from the slug after it leaves the barrel.
Smoothbore slug barrels are more traditional and designed for use with “Foster slugs” or “rifled slugs.” These are solid lead slugs that have external rifling to help them spin in flight. Smoothbore barrels can be less expensive than rifled barrels but often deliver lower accuracy at extended ranges.
The selection of the right barrel type depends largely on your intended application and personal preferences. If you prioritize maximum accuracy at the longest ranges, a rifled barrel is typically the better choice. If you want to keep costs down or prefer a more traditional slug design, a smoothbore barrel may suffice.
Another important consideration is barrel length. 870 20 gauge slug barrels come in various lengths, ranging from shorter barrels suitable for maneuverability to longer ones designed for enhanced range. The ideal length for your 870 20 gauge slug barrel depends on how you intend to use the firearm.
Shorter barrels, like those in the 20-inch range, are generally preferred for hunting in dense brush or for home defense, where maneuverability is critical. Longer barrels, perhaps 24 inches or longer, can offer a slight advantage in terms of accuracy and muzzle velocity, making them better suited for longer-range target shooting or hunting in open fields.
The choice of sights is equally vital. Some slug barrels come with factory-installed sights, such as rifle sights or adjustable sights, which can improve target acquisition. Another option is barrels equipped with a cantilever mount. This integrated system enables you to easily mount scopes or red dot sights directly to the barrel, ensuring a secure and stable platform for your optic.
Choosing Wisely: Selecting the Right 870 20 Gauge Slug Barrel
Selecting the right 870 20 gauge slug barrel is a decision that requires careful consideration. There are several factors to consider to make sure you’re getting the right barrel for your specific needs.
The first, and perhaps most important, step is ensuring compatibility with your existing 870 shotgun. While the 870 platform is generally very standardized, confirm your receiver size and magazine tube length.
Consider the specific applications for the 870 slug barrel. If your goal is hunting, assess the hunting scenarios in which you will use the firearm. Are you primarily hunting in dense forests or open fields? If you are target shooting, at what ranges do you plan to shoot? The answer to these questions helps determine the barrel type, barrel length, and sighting system that will best suit your needs.
The materials and construction of the barrel will greatly influence its durability, accuracy, and overall performance. Barrels are often constructed from high-quality steel alloys to withstand the pressures generated by firing slugs. Look for barrels made from reputable materials, such as those with chrome-moly steel or stainless steel construction, which are known for their strength, corrosion resistance, and accuracy-enhancing properties.
The quality of machining and finish is another critical aspect. High-quality barrels will feature precision rifling that is accurately cut and smoothly finished. This will help you get better accuracy. The finish of the barrel also plays an essential role, contributing to the barrel’s longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
Finally, consider your budget. The cost of an 870 20 gauge slug barrel can vary greatly. Set a budget and research the options available. Factor in the costs of mounting any accessories, such as sights or optics. Do not sacrifice quality for price. Look for a barrel that will serve your needs reliably.
Putting It Together: Installing and Using Your 870 20 Gauge Slug Barrel
Once you’ve chosen your 870 20 gauge slug barrel, installing it is relatively straightforward, but it must be done correctly.
Begin by unloading your shotgun and ensuring it is safe to handle. Remove the forend and then the magazine cap. Next, remove the barrel nut. It is usually as simple as unscrewing the old barrel from the receiver.
Insert the new slug barrel into the receiver, aligning the barrel lug. Ensure it is properly seated and tighten it. Reinstall the forend and magazine cap. Double-check that the barrel is securely attached before proceeding. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or a qualified gunsmith if you have any doubts about the installation process.
Once the barrel is installed, it’s time to sight in your shotgun. This involves adjusting the sights to ensure that the slugs impact the target at the desired point of aim. A good starting distance for sighting in is usually yards.
You can adjust the rear sight elevation and windage to correct the point of impact. Repeat the process, making small adjustments until the slugs consistently hit where you are aiming. When using an optic, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
When shooting slugs, adopt a solid shooting position and grip. Slugs can generate significant recoil, so it is important to control the firearm properly. Maintain a firm grip on the forend and the pistol grip or stock. Make sure the gun is properly shouldered to manage the recoil effectively. Focus on a smooth trigger pull.
Maintaining Accuracy: Care and Maintenance of Your Slug Barrel
Caring for your 870 20 gauge slug barrel will ensure its longevity and help it to maintain its accuracy.
Regular cleaning is essential. The barrel should be cleaned after each shooting session to remove any powder residue, fouling, or other debris that may accumulate. Use a quality bore cleaner and a cleaning rod with a bore brush and patch. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the bore cleaner.
In addition to bore cleaning, it is essential to clean the exterior surfaces of the barrel. Wipe down the exterior of the barrel with a clean cloth and apply a light coat of gun oil to protect it from corrosion.
Proper storage is crucial in maintaining the condition of your slug barrel. Store your firearm in a dry place, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Consider storing your firearm in a gun safe or a case designed to protect it from damage.
Addressing the Common Questions: Frequently Asked Questions
Several common questions often arise regarding 870 20 gauge slug barrels.
What is the best slug for a 20 gauge? The “best” slug depends on your application. Sabot slugs tend to excel in rifled barrels, while Foster slugs work well in smoothbore barrels. Various premium slug options are available to maximize both range and stopping power. Experiment with different ammunition types to find the one that performs best in your specific firearm.
Can I use buckshot in a slug barrel? You can safely fire buckshot through your slug barrel.
Are there any modifications to the barrel? Some barrels have been modified with a cantilever scope mount, giving the shooter the option of attaching a scope or red dot sight.
What’s the best barrel length? The best barrel length depends on the application. Shorter barrels excel at maneuverability, while longer barrels tend to have slightly greater accuracy.
Conclusion: Embrace the Precision
The 870 20 gauge slug barrel opens up a new world of precision and performance for your Remington 870. By providing the information in this article, you can enhance the accuracy of your 20 gauge and get more out of your investment. With its enhanced range, versatile performance, and ease of use, the 870 20 gauge slug barrel is a valuable addition to any shotgun collection. Whether you are a hunter, a home defender, or a target shooter, the 870 20 gauge slug barrel provides the power of the Remington 870 with added precision and effectiveness. With the right knowledge, careful selection, proper installation, and diligent maintenance, you can transform your 870 into a specialized tool for success in any environment.
