The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. While the classic wood stock is iconic, many shooters prefer the practicality and durability of a synthetic stock. This guide delves into the world of Remington 870 shotguns with synthetic stocks, exploring their advantages, disadvantages, and considerations for various applications.
Why Choose a Synthetic Stock for Your Remington 870?
The synthetic stock on a Remington 870 offers several compelling advantages over its wooden counterpart:
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Durability: Synthetic stocks are significantly more resistant to damage from impacts, scratches, and harsh weather conditions. This makes them ideal for hunting in rugged terrain or tactical situations where the gun might be subjected to rough handling. Unlike wood, they won't crack or warp easily.
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Water Resistance: Synthetic materials are inherently water-resistant, protecting the stock from swelling and damage caused by moisture. This is a crucial advantage for hunting in wet conditions or for storing the shotgun in less-than-ideal environments.
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Lightweight: Many synthetic stocks are lighter than wooden stocks, reducing the overall weight of the shotgun and improving maneuverability. This is particularly beneficial for long days in the field or during extended shooting sessions.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Synthetic stocks are generally less expensive than high-quality wooden stocks, making them a more budget-friendly option.
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Customization: A wide array of synthetic stocks are available, offering different comb heights, lengths of pull, and overall designs to suit individual preferences and shooting styles. This allows shooters to optimize the fit and handling of their Remington 870.
Types of Synthetic Stock Materials
Remington 870 synthetic stocks are typically made from one of the following materials:
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Polymer: This is the most common material, offering a good balance of durability, weight, and cost-effectiveness. Many different types of polymer are used, each with its own properties.
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Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP): This material offers enhanced strength and rigidity compared to standard polymer, making it a popular choice for tactical shotguns that might endure heavy use.
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Carbon Fiber: While less common due to higher cost, carbon fiber stocks are exceptionally lightweight and strong, making them attractive for competitive shooting or applications where weight reduction is paramount.
Choosing the Right Synthetic Stock for Your Needs
The ideal synthetic stock for your Remington 870 depends on your intended use:
Hunting: A lightweight stock with a comfortable length of pull and drop is ideal for hunting. Features like a recoil pad can also improve the shooting experience.
Home Defense: A robust stock with a pistol grip and a shorter length of pull can improve handling in close-quarters situations. Consider a stock with features for mounting accessories like lights or lasers.
Tactical/Law Enforcement: Features like Picatinny rails for mounting accessories, ergonomic designs for quick target acquisition, and enhanced durability are essential for tactical applications.
Competitive Shooting: Lightweight stocks with adjustable features, such as comb height and length of pull, allow for fine-tuning to optimize shooting performance.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing a new synthetic stock on a Remington 870 is typically a straightforward process that can often be done at home with basic tools. However, if you're unsure, consult a qualified gunsmith.
Maintaining a synthetic stock is relatively easy. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth can remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish.
Case Study: Comparing Wood vs. Synthetic Stock Performance
While subjective, many shooters report less felt recoil with a properly fitted synthetic stock due to its ability to absorb vibrations more efficiently than wood. However, the overall performance largely depends on other factors like the gauge of the shotgun, ammunition used, and the shooter's technique. A side-by-side comparison, shooting the same ammunition with both wood and synthetic stocks, under controlled conditions, would be needed for definitive data-driven conclusions.
Conclusion: The Versatility of the Synthetic Stock Remington 870
The Remington 870 with a synthetic stock offers a practical and durable alternative to the classic wooden version. Its superior resistance to harsh conditions, lightweight design, and affordability make it a popular choice for a wide range of applications. By carefully considering your individual needs and preferences, you can choose the perfect synthetic stock to enhance your Remington 870 experience. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all relevant laws and regulations.