The Remington 870, a legendary shotgun, is prized for its reliability and versatility. Choosing the right choke for your Remington 870 20 gauge is crucial for optimizing its performance, whether you're hunting waterfowl, upland birds, clays, or engaging in home defense. This guide dives deep into the world of Remington 870 20 gauge chokes, helping you select the perfect one for your needs.
Understanding Choke Tubes
Before we delve into specific Remington 870 20 gauge choke options, let's clarify what choke tubes actually do. A choke tube is a constricted device at the muzzle of the shotgun barrel. It controls the shot pattern, influencing the shot's spread and density at a given distance. Different chokes offer various degrees of constriction, impacting accuracy and range.
Types of Remington 870 20 Gauge Chokes and Their Applications
Remington offers a range of choke tubes for their 870 20 gauge shotguns, each designed for specific purposes. Here's a breakdown:
1. Cylinder Bore (CYL):
- Constriction: None.
- Shot Pattern: Produces the widest shot pattern, ideal for very close-range shots (e.g., close-quarters home defense). Not suitable for long-range shooting due to excessive shot spread.
- Applications: Home defense, close-range hunting (e.g., extremely close shots on rabbits or squirrels).
2. Improved Cylinder (IC):
- Constriction: Slightly constricted.
- Shot Pattern: A slightly tighter pattern than Cylinder Bore, offering a bit more range and accuracy.
- Applications: Suitable for close-to-medium-range shooting of upland birds or smaller game.
3. Modified (MOD):
- Constriction: Moderately constricted.
- Shot Pattern: A good balance between range and pattern density. This is a versatile choke suitable for a variety of hunting situations.
- Applications: Versatile choice for hunting various game birds at moderate ranges. A good all-around option for many shooters.
4. Improved Modified (IM):
- Constriction: More constricted than Modified.
- Shot Pattern: A tighter pattern than Modified, offering increased range and accuracy.
- Applications: Ideal for hunting larger game birds like ducks and geese at moderate to longer ranges.
5. Full (F):
- Constriction: The most constricted choke.
- Shot Pattern: The tightest pattern, providing the longest range and best accuracy.
- Applications: Best suited for long-range waterfowl hunting and trap shooting. Use with caution as the tight pattern can result in missed shots if not properly aimed.
Choosing the Right Choke for Your Remington 870 20 Gauge
Selecting the appropriate choke depends entirely on your intended use:
- Waterfowl Hunting: Improved Modified (IM) or Full (F) chokes are usually preferred for their tight patterns at longer ranges.
- Upland Bird Hunting: Modified (MOD) or Improved Cylinder (IC) chokes offer a good balance between pattern density and range.
- Turkey Hunting: Full (F) or Extra Full chokes (if available) are commonly used for turkey hunting, especially at longer ranges. However, the specific choice often depends on the load and the hunting situation.
- Home Defense: Cylinder Bore (CYL) is generally recommended for home defense scenarios due to its wider pattern. However, consider your specific environment and situation.
- Clay Target Shooting: The best choke depends on the specific clay target discipline (e.g., trap, skeet, sporting clays). Experimentation may be needed to determine the optimal choke for your individual style and the range.
Maintaining Your Remington 870 20 Gauge Chokes
Proper choke maintenance is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Always clean your choke tubes after each use to prevent buildup of residue that could affect pattern consistency. Store your chokes in a safe and organized manner to prevent damage or loss.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Remington 870 20 gauge choke can significantly enhance your shooting experience. Understanding the different choke constrictions and their applications will help you make an informed decision based on your specific hunting or shooting needs. Remember to always prioritize safety and practice responsible firearm handling.
