The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, known for its reliability, versatility, and robust design. With a 28-inch barrel, this classic firearm takes on a unique character, ideal for specific shooting disciplines and applications. This guide will delve into the features, benefits, and considerations of the Remington 870 12 gauge with a 28-inch barrel.
Why Choose a 28-Inch Barrel?
A 28-inch barrel on a Remington 870 offers several advantages, primarily related to accuracy and target acquisition:
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Improved Accuracy: The longer barrel provides more time for the shot charge to fully develop velocity and pressure, resulting in potentially tighter shot patterns at longer ranges. This is particularly beneficial for sporting clays, trap, and skeet shooting where precise shot placement is crucial.
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Reduced Recoil (Slightly): While the difference might not be dramatic, a longer barrel can slightly mitigate felt recoil due to the longer distance over which the gases expand.
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Enhanced Sight Radius: The extended length provides a longer sight radius, allowing for more precise aiming and target alignment. This is a significant advantage for longer-range shooting.
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Versatility: While optimized for longer-range shooting, a 28-inch barrel still performs well for hunting applications, particularly in open fields or when dealing with longer shots on game.
Applications of the Remington 870 with 28-Inch Barrel
The versatility of the Remington 870 with a 28-inch barrel makes it suitable for various purposes:
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Sporting Clays: The longer barrel and enhanced accuracy make it a strong contender in sporting clays competitions. The ability to consistently hit distant targets accurately is paramount in this discipline.
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Trap and Skeet: While shorter barrels are common, a 28-inch barrel can offer a performance advantage for shooters who prefer the added sight radius and potentially tighter patterns.
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Hunting: Suitable for waterfowl, upland game, and even some big game hunting (depending on the ammunition used). Its reliability in diverse conditions makes it a dependable hunting companion.
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Home Defense (Consideration): While less maneuverable than shorter barreled versions within a confined space, the longer barrel could offer some minor accuracy advantage at slightly longer ranges within the home if needed for a defense scenario. However, the primary concerns should remain maneuverability and control in close quarters. Shorter barreled versions are generally preferred for home defense.
Considerations Before Purchasing
Before purchasing a Remington 870 with a 28-inch barrel, consider the following:
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Weight and Maneuverability: The longer barrel adds weight and reduces maneuverability compared to shorter barrel variants. This is especially important in hunting situations where swift target acquisition is crucial.
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Storage and Transportation: A longer barrel requires more storage space and can make transportation more challenging.
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Specific Use Case: Clearly define your shooting discipline or intended use. A 28-inch barrel is a superior choice for long-range accuracy but may not be ideal for close-quarters applications.
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Ammunition Selection: Experiment with different types of ammunition to find the optimal load that produces the best shot patterns and recoil characteristics for your specific needs.
Conclusion
The Remington 870 12 gauge with a 28-inch barrel is a powerful and versatile shotgun that excels in accuracy and long-range performance. Its reliability and classic design make it a popular choice among shooters. However, carefully consider the trade-offs concerning weight, maneuverability, and intended use before making your purchase. Choosing the right barrel length ultimately depends on your individual needs and shooting style.
