870 Youth 20 Gauge: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Shooters
Choosing the right firearm for a young shooter is crucial. Safety, proper fit, and ease of handling are paramount. The Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge shotgun stands out as a popular choice, but is it the right fit for your young hunter or sport shooter? Let's delve into the specifics.
Why Choose a 20 Gauge for Youth?
The 20 gauge offers a compelling compromise between power and recoil. Compared to a 12 gauge, it delivers less recoil, making it significantly more manageable for younger, less physically developed shooters. This reduced recoil improves safety by promoting better gun control and reducing the risk of flinching. It also fosters confidence and encourages continued participation in shooting sports. While less powerful than a 12 gauge, the 20 gauge still packs enough punch for most hunting applications, particularly small game and upland birds.
Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge: Key Features
The Remington 870's reputation precedes it. Known for its rugged reliability and simple operation, the youth model further refines these features for younger users. Key aspects include:
- Reduced Length of Pull (LOP): This is arguably the most critical feature. The shorter LOP ensures the gun fits the smaller stature of a young shooter, improving comfort, accuracy, and overall handling. A poorly fitting shotgun can lead to bad habits and decreased accuracy.
- Youth-Sized Stock: Beyond just the LOP, the stock is often designed to better fit the contours of a smaller frame, promoting a more natural and stable shooting posture.
- Pump-Action Mechanism: The pump action is straightforward and reliable, making it easy for young shooters to learn and operate safely. This simple mechanism reduces the complexity compared to semi-automatic or break-action shotguns.
- Durable Construction: Remington 870s are built to last, weathering the inevitable bumps and bruises associated with youth activities. This durability ensures a long lifespan, representing good value for the investment.
Considerations Before Purchase
While the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge is a solid choice, several factors warrant consideration:
- Proper Fit: The most critical factor. Ensure the gun fits your child perfectly. A gunsmith can help determine the optimal LOP and potentially adjust the stock for a truly custom fit. Never let a child shoot a gun that doesn't fit properly.
- Safety Training: Thorough and comprehensive safety training is non-negotiable. Before even handling the firearm, ensure your child receives proper instruction from a certified firearms instructor. Safety should always be the top priority.
- Supervision: Constant and vigilant adult supervision is necessary whenever a young person handles a firearm. Never leave a child unsupervised with a loaded firearm.
- Ammunition Selection: Choose appropriate ammunition based on your child's size and strength. Starting with lighter loads is recommended to minimize recoil.
Alternatives to Consider
While the Remington 870 is a popular option, it's important to explore alternatives. Other manufacturers offer youth-sized 20 gauge shotguns with similar features and potentially different price points. Consider researching and comparing options before making a decision.
Conclusion
The Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge can be an excellent choice for introducing young people to the world of shooting sports or hunting. However, prioritize safety, proper fit, and thorough instruction above all else. Remember, responsible gun ownership and education are crucial. Investing time and effort in these areas will ensure a safe and positive experience for your child.
