The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability, versatility, and robust construction. The 28-inch barrel version enhances its capabilities for specific applications, making it a popular choice among hunters, sport shooters, and collectors. This guide dives deep into the features, benefits, and considerations of owning a Remington 870 12 gauge with a 28-inch barrel.
Why Choose a 28-Inch Barrel?
The length of a shotgun barrel significantly impacts its performance. A 28-inch barrel offers several key advantages:
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Improved Accuracy: The longer sight radius contributes to enhanced accuracy, particularly at longer ranges. This is crucial for hunting birds or clays at greater distances.
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Increased Velocity: While the increase isn't dramatic, a longer barrel allows for slightly higher muzzle velocity, resulting in a flatter trajectory and increased effective range.
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Reduced Recoil: Counterintuitively, a longer barrel can sometimes reduce felt recoil, though this effect is subtle and depends on other factors like the ammunition used.
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Better Balance: For some shooters, the longer barrel provides a more balanced feel, improving handling and swing.
Ideal Applications for the 28-Inch Barrel
The Remington 870 with a 28-inch barrel is particularly well-suited for:
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Hunting: It excels in hunting scenarios requiring long-range accuracy, such as waterfowl hunting (ducks, geese), upland game birds (pheasants, quail), and even some types of deer hunting (with appropriate ammunition).
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Sporting Clays: The longer barrel aids in consistent target acquisition and tracking, beneficial for various clay shooting disciplines.
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3-Gun Competitions: In certain 3-Gun stages, the longer barrel's accuracy advantage can be a significant benefit.
Considerations Before Purchase
While a 28-inch barrel offers benefits, it also presents some trade-offs:
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Weight and Handling: A longer barrel naturally increases the overall weight and length of the shotgun. This can make it less maneuverable in tight spaces or for extended periods of use.
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Portability: The increased length makes it slightly less portable than shorter-barreled versions.
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Cost: Depending on the specific configuration and accessories, a 28-inch barrel version may command a slightly higher price.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 28-Inch Barrel Configuration
Remington 870s come in various configurations. Consider these factors when making your selection:
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Stock Type: Choose a stock that fits your physique and shooting style. Options include standard, tactical, and specialized hunting stocks.
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Choke Tubes: The choke tubes determine the shot pattern. Consider the types of game you'll be hunting and select appropriate chokes (e.g., modified, improved cylinder, full).
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Finish: Remington offers different finishes, such as blued steel or camouflage, affecting both aesthetics and durability.
Conclusion: Is a 28-Inch Barrel Right for You?
The Remington 870 12 gauge with a 28-inch barrel is a powerful and versatile shotgun ideal for various applications. However, carefully consider the trade-offs between accuracy, weight, handling, and portability before making a purchase. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and shooting style. If long-range accuracy and performance are priorities, a 28-inch barrel Remington 870 is a strong contender.
