The Remington 870 shotgun, a legendary firearm known for its reliability and versatility, often benefits from upgrades to enhance its accuracy and performance. One such upgrade frequently considered is the rear sight. This guide dives deep into the world of Remington 870 rear sights, covering everything from understanding factory sights to exploring popular aftermarket options and providing detailed guidance on adjustment and installation.
Understanding the Factory Remington 870 Rear Sight
The standard Remington 870 typically comes equipped with a simple, bead-type front sight and a relatively unimpressive rear sight, often a small notch or ramp integrated into the receiver. While functional for close-range shooting, this setup lacks precision for longer distances or more demanding applications. The limitations primarily stem from:
- Limited Visibility: The small size and often low profile make the factory rear sight difficult to acquire quickly, especially in low-light conditions.
- Lack of Adjustability: No windage or elevation adjustments are typically available, hindering accuracy at longer ranges or when using different ammunition types.
- Durability Concerns: The factory sight's material and construction may not withstand the rigors of heavy use or recoil, leading to damage or wear over time.
Popular Aftermarket Remington 870 Rear Sight Options
The market offers a wide array of aftermarket rear sights designed to improve the Remington 870's accuracy and shooting experience. These options often address the shortcomings of the factory sight by providing:
- Improved Visibility: Many aftermarket sights feature larger, more easily acquired profiles, often incorporating fiber optic inserts or tritium vials for enhanced visibility in diverse lighting conditions.
- Adjustability: Adjustable rear sights allow for precise windage and elevation corrections, compensating for variations in ammunition, environmental factors, or shooter preferences. This fine-tuning greatly improves accuracy.
- Enhanced Durability: High-quality aftermarket sights are generally constructed from durable materials like steel or aluminum, ensuring longevity and resistance to damage from recoil.
Some popular types of aftermarket Remington 870 rear sights include:
- Ghost Ring Sights: These sights offer a large, unobstructed sight picture, ideal for rapid target acquisition in close-quarters situations.
- Adjustable Aperture Sights: These provide precise adjustments for windage and elevation and allow shooters to customize the sight picture based on individual needs and preferences.
- Fiber Optic Sights: These incorporate fiber optic rods that gather and amplify ambient light, resulting in brighter, more easily acquired sights, especially beneficial in low-light conditions.
Installing a Remington 870 Rear Sight: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing an aftermarket rear sight on a Remington 870 generally involves removing the factory sight and attaching the new sight using appropriate tools and techniques. Always prioritize safety and consult the specific instructions provided with your chosen sight. General steps may include:
- Disassembly: Carefully disassemble the firearm following established safety protocols. Consult your owner's manual for guidance.
- Removal of Factory Sight: Remove the factory rear sight using appropriate tools, often a punch or screwdriver.
- Installation of New Sight: Carefully align and secure the new rear sight onto the receiver, ensuring proper fit and alignment. Use appropriate tools and techniques, as specified in the product instructions.
- Reassembly: Reassemble the firearm, double-checking all components are properly secured and functioning correctly.
Adjusting Your Remington 870 Rear Sight
After installation, proper sight adjustment is crucial for optimal accuracy. This typically involves adjusting for windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down). The adjustment process varies based on the specific rear sight design. Consult your rear sight's instructions for precise adjustment procedures.
Conclusion
Upgrading the rear sight on your Remington 870 shotgun can significantly improve accuracy, target acquisition, and overall shooting experience. By understanding the limitations of the factory sight and exploring the diverse options available in the aftermarket, you can make an informed choice that best suits your shooting style and needs. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your firearm's manual and the rear sight's instructions before undertaking any modifications or adjustments.
