The Remington 870, a legendary pump-action shotgun, is renowned for its reliability and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a home defense enthusiast, or a competitive shooter, understanding your iron sights is crucial for accuracy and effectiveness. This guide delves into the specifics of Remington 870 iron sights, offering tips for proper sighting, adjustment, and maintenance.
Understanding Remington 870 Iron Sight Components
Remington 870 shotguns typically feature a bead sight at the front and a simple post or rib at the rear. Let's break down each component:
The Front Bead Sight
This is the small, often brass or fiber optic, bead located at the muzzle end of the barrel. Its purpose is to provide a clear point of aim. Fiber optic beads are particularly advantageous in low-light conditions, offering increased visibility.
The Rear Sight (Post or Rib)
The rear sight serves as a reference point for aligning the front bead. Some Remington 870 models incorporate a simple post sight, while others feature a raised rib along the top of the barrel. The rib offers a longer sight radius, potentially improving accuracy, particularly at longer ranges.
Sighting In Your Remington 870
Proper sighting is paramount for accuracy. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Find a Safe Shooting Range: Ensure you're at a properly designated and safe shooting range. Follow all safety protocols.
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Proper Shooting Stance: Adopt a comfortable and stable shooting stance. Your posture significantly impacts accuracy.
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Target Acquisition: Choose a target at a suitable distance (start with 25 yards).
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Sight Alignment: Align the front bead with the rear sight. Ensure the bead is centered within the rear sight's notch or along the rib.
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Sight Picture: Develop a clear sight picture—a consistent and repeatable alignment of your front and rear sights.
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Trigger Control: Practice smooth, consistent trigger control to avoid jerking the shot.
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Adjustments (If Necessary): If your shots consistently land off-target, you may need to adjust your sight picture or consider professional gunsmithing for more significant adjustments. Many models do not offer adjustable sights.
Enhancing Your Remington 870 Iron Sight Performance
While the standard Remington 870 iron sights are functional, certain upgrades can enhance their performance:
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Fiber Optic Front Sight: Replacing the standard bead with a fiber optic sight significantly improves low-light visibility.
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Ghost Ring Sights: Although not a standard option, some aftermarket ghost ring sights are available for Remington 870s. These offer a faster target acquisition than traditional sights.
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Proper Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping your sights clean and free of debris will ensure optimal visibility and performance.
Beyond the Iron Sights: Exploring Alternatives
For shooters seeking increased precision or improved low-light capabilities, aftermarket options such as red dot sights or holographic sights can be installed on some Remington 870 models. These require mounting accessories and may necessitate modification or professional gunsmithing. This is not covered in this guide focused specifically on iron sights.
Conclusion
Mastering your Remington 870 iron sights requires practice and attention to detail. By understanding the components, practicing proper sighting techniques, and considering potential upgrades, you can significantly improve your shooting accuracy and overall performance with this classic shotgun. Remember always to prioritize safety and follow all firearm handling guidelines.
