The Remington 870, a legendary pump-action shotgun, is incredibly versatile. While often used for home defense and hunting, many owners appreciate its adaptability for other purposes. However, improving accuracy often hinges on upgrading the sights. This guide dives into the world of Remington 870 rifle sights, exploring factory options, aftermarket upgrades, and the factors to consider when choosing the right setup for your specific needs.
Understanding Factory Sight Options on the Remington 870
The Remington 870's factory sights vary depending on the model and intended use. You'll typically find one of the following:
- Bead Sight: A simple, inexpensive, and often standard feature. The bead offers a rudimentary aiming point, best suited for close-range shooting. Its simplicity makes it easy to use, but precision suffers at longer ranges.
- Ramp/Post Sight: An improvement over the bead sight, this offers a more defined aiming point, often featuring a raised post on a ramp. Accuracy is improved compared to a bead sight, particularly at moderate ranges. While still not ideal for long-distance shots, it's a solid upgrade.
Upgrading Your Remington 870 Sights: Exploring Aftermarket Options
The aftermarket offers a vast selection of sights to transform your Remington 870's accuracy. The key decision lies in choosing the right type based on your intended use:
1. Ghost Ring Sights: Speed and Accuracy in a Compact Package
Ghost ring sights are known for their speed and ease of acquisition, making them a popular choice among tactical shooters and law enforcement. The large rear aperture (ring) allows for quick target acquisition even under stress, while the front post is easy to align within the ring. These are ideal for close to medium range engagements.
2. Rifle Sights: Extending Your Effective Range
For hunters or those seeking longer-range accuracy, rifle sights are a significant upgrade. These sights provide a much clearer, more precise aiming point compared to bead or ramp sights. Popular choices include:
- Adjustable Rifle Sights: Allow for windage and elevation adjustments, crucial for long-range accuracy.
- Scope Mounts: Allow for the attachment of scopes, which further enhance long-range accuracy. Consider the weight and balance implications of adding a scope to your shotgun.
3. Fiber Optic Sights: Enhanced Visibility
Fiber optic sights are excellent for low-light conditions. These incorporate fiber optic rods that gather ambient light and illuminate the front sight post, providing a bright, easily visible aiming point. While not as precise as rifle sights at long range, they offer a significant advantage in low-light environments.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Remington 870 Rifle Sights
Several factors play a crucial role in selecting the right sights for your Remington 870:
- Intended Use: Are you using the shotgun for home defense, hunting, or competition? Your intended use significantly impacts the type of sights best suited for your needs.
- Shooting Distance: Close-range applications benefit from simpler sights like beads or ghost rings. Longer-range shooting demands the precision of rifle sights or scopes.
- Lighting Conditions: For low-light shooting, fiber optic sights are an excellent choice.
- Budget: Sight upgrades range from inexpensive beads to costly scopes and mounts. Set a budget before you start shopping.
Installation and Considerations
Installing new sights often requires basic tools and some mechanical aptitude. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for your specific sights. Ensure proper alignment and secure fastening to prevent malfunctions. Consider professional installation if you are unsure about the process.
Conclusion: Optimizing Your Remington 870 for Superior Accuracy
Upgrading your Remington 870's sights is a simple yet effective way to improve accuracy and performance. By carefully considering your intended use, shooting distance, lighting conditions, and budget, you can select the ideal sights to transform your shooting experience. Remember, the right sights can make all the difference between a good shot and a great one.