The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or a home defense enthusiast, enhancing your Remington 870's accuracy with a scope can significantly improve its performance. However, choosing and mounting the right scope and mount requires careful consideration. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Remington 870 scope mounts, helping you make an informed decision.
Understanding Remington 870 Receiver Variations
Before diving into scope mounts, it's crucial to understand the variations in Remington 870 receivers. Different models and manufacturing years may have slightly different receiver designs, impacting the type of mount that will work best. Key factors to consider include:
- Receiver Rails: Some modern Remington 870s feature integrated Picatinny rails, making scope mounting significantly easier. These rails provide a standardized platform for attaching a wide variety of scope mounts.
- Receiver Drilling and Tapping: Older models often require drilling and tapping the receiver to install a scope mount. This is a more involved process that should be performed by a qualified gunsmith to ensure accuracy and safety.
- Wingmaster vs. Express: Even within the same model year, variations exist. The Wingmaster and Express models, for example, might have slightly different receiver dimensions.
Types of Remington 870 Scope Mounts
Several types of scope mounts cater to the Remington 870's unique receiver design:
1. Receiver Mounts:
These mounts attach directly to the receiver of the shotgun. They are available in various styles:
- Clamp-on Mounts: These are often the easiest to install, clamping onto the receiver without requiring drilling or tapping. However, they may not be as robust as other options.
- Base Mounts with Rings: These mounts typically consist of a base that attaches to the receiver, providing a platform for mounting scope rings and the scope itself. This setup offers a more secure and stable mounting solution.
- Picatinny Rail Mounts: For Remington 870s with integrated Picatinny rails, these mounts simply slide onto the rail, providing a quick and easy mounting solution.
2. Barrel Mounts:
Barrel mounts attach to the shotgun's barrel. While less common for scopes, they are sometimes used for red dot sights or other aiming devices. These mounts generally require careful alignment to avoid affecting the shot pattern.
3. Side Saddle Mounts:
While not strictly scope mounts, side saddle mounts can accommodate small red dot sights or other accessories, often used in conjunction with a receiver-mounted scope for close-range applications.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mount
Several factors influence the choice of a Remington 870 scope mount:
- Shotgun Model and Year: As mentioned earlier, receiver variations significantly impact mount compatibility.
- Scope Size and Weight: A heavier scope requires a more robust mount to ensure stability and prevent damage to the receiver.
- Mounting Style: Clamp-on mounts offer ease of installation, while base mounts with rings provide superior stability.
- Budget: Prices vary significantly depending on the mount's material, construction, and brand.
- Intended Use: The type of shooting (hunting, competition, home defense) influences the desired scope and mount configuration.
Installation and Safety Precautions
Installing a scope mount on a Remington 870, especially if drilling and tapping is involved, should only be done by a qualified gunsmith. Improper installation can damage your firearm and compromise its safety. Always prioritize safety when working with firearms.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Remington 870 scope mount is crucial for enhancing accuracy and performance. Understanding the various receiver designs, mount types, and relevant factors detailed above will help you make an informed decision and ensure a safe and effective mounting process. Remember to consult a qualified gunsmith if you're unsure about any aspect of the installation.
