The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. For law enforcement and serious home defense users, the choice of stock and forend significantly impacts performance and handling. This guide delves into the specifics of Remington 870 police stocks and forends, exploring their features, benefits, and considerations for choosing the right setup.
Understanding the Importance of Stock and Forend Selection
The stock and forend are crucial components impacting the overall ergonomics and functionality of your Remington 870. A poorly chosen stock can lead to discomfort, poor aim, and reduced accuracy, while a subpar forend can hinder smooth operation and quick target acquisition. Police-style stocks and forends are designed to optimize these factors for rapid deployment and effective close-quarters combat (CQB) scenarios.
Key Features of Police Stocks:
- Pistol Grip: Many police stocks incorporate a pistol grip, providing a more secure and comfortable hold, especially during rapid firing. This allows for better control and reduces felt recoil.
- Adjustable Length of Pull (LOP): Adjustable LOP features cater to individual shooter preferences and body types, ensuring a proper fit for optimal shooting posture and accuracy.
- Enhanced Cheek Rest: A well-defined cheek rest promotes consistent cheek weld, which is vital for maintaining accurate sight alignment, especially with shorter barrels or optics mounted.
- Durable Construction: Police stocks are typically constructed from high-impact polymer or reinforced synthetic materials for increased durability and resistance to damage.
- Compatibility: Confirm compatibility with your specific Remington 870 model before purchasing. Some stocks are designed for specific barrel lengths or receiver variations.
Key Features of Police Forends:
- Improved Ergonomics: Police forends often feature textured surfaces or aggressive grip patterns to enhance control during rapid manipulation and firing.
- Increased Length: Longer forends provide more surface area for gripping, improving stability and reducing muzzle rise.
- Accessory Rails: Some police forends include accessory rails (Picatinny or Weaver) for mounting tactical lights, lasers, or other accessories to enhance situational awareness and target engagement.
- Material: Similar to stocks, police forends are typically made from durable polymer or synthetic materials resistant to wear and tear.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 Police Stock and Forend: Considerations
Selecting the appropriate stock and forend depends on several factors:
- Intended Use: Consider your primary application for the shotgun – home defense, law enforcement, competition, or hunting. This will determine the features you prioritize.
- Body Type and Shooting Style: The stock's length of pull and overall design should fit your body size and shooting style for comfortable and accurate operation.
- Budget: Prices vary widely depending on the brand, materials, and features. Set a realistic budget before beginning your search.
- Compatibility: Verify compatibility with your specific Remington 870 model to avoid purchasing incompatible parts.
Maintenance and Care of Your Remington 870 Stock and Forend
Regular cleaning and maintenance will prolong the lifespan of your Remington 870 stock and forend. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.
Conclusion: Upgrade Your Remington 870 for Enhanced Performance
Upgrading your Remington 870 with a quality police stock and forend can significantly enhance its performance and handling, making it better suited for self-defense or law enforcement applications. By carefully considering the factors outlined above and selecting components that align with your needs and preferences, you can transform your shotgun into a more effective and reliable tool. Remember always to practice safe gun handling and to familiarize yourself with your firearm's operation before use.
