Finding the right Remington 870 red dot mount can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and speed. This comprehensive guide explores various mount types, installation considerations, and factors to consider when choosing the best setup for your shotgun. We'll cover everything from the basics of red dot sights to advanced mounting techniques, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Understanding Remington 870 Red Dot Sight Mounting Options
The Remington 870, a legendary pump-action shotgun, isn't inherently designed for red dot sights. Therefore, selecting the right mount is crucial. Several options exist, each with advantages and disadvantages:
Rail Mounts: The Most Common Choice
- Picatinny Rails: These are the most popular and versatile option. A Picatinny rail adapter is attached to the Remington 870's receiver, allowing you to mount virtually any red dot sight with a Picatinny or Weaver rail interface. This offers flexibility in sight choices.
- Weaver Rails: Similar to Picatinny, Weaver rails offer a robust mounting solution. While less common than Picatinny, many red dot sights are compatible with both.
Advantages of Rail Mounts: Wide compatibility with red dot sights, easy installation (generally), sturdy mounting platform.
Disadvantages of Rail Mounts: Can add significant height to the sight, potentially affecting cheek weld and sight picture. Requires drilling and tapping (in most cases) or using a clamp-on mount which may not be as secure.
Scope Mounts: Adapting Existing Systems
Some shooters adapt existing scope mounts designed for the Remington 870 to accommodate a red dot sight. This involves purchasing a low-profile scope mount and then attaching a red dot mount to the scope mount. This option is less common but can work for some.
Advantages of Scope Mounts: Can be more robust for certain applications, uses a system you might already own.
Disadvantages of Scope Mounts: May add unnecessary height, requires a specific combination of compatible mounts, often less adaptable than direct rail mounts.
Ghost Ring Sight Mounts: A Unique Approach
Some aftermarket mounts replace the factory ghost ring sights with a low-profile mount incorporating a red dot sight base. This maintains a relatively low sight profile, but limits your ability to go back to ghost ring sights easily.
Advantages of Ghost Ring Sight Mounts: Low-profile, clean look, potential for improved ergonomics.
Disadvantages of Ghost Ring Sight Mounts: May limit the choice of red dot sights to those fitting the mount's specifications. Permanent modification of the firearm.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 Red Dot Mount: Key Considerations
Several critical factors influence your mount selection:
- Sight Height: A lower sight height improves cheek weld and reduces the need for extreme head positioning. Higher mounts can make shooting uncomfortable.
- Mount Material: Durable materials like aluminum and steel are preferred for reliability and longevity.
- Mounting Method: Consider whether you're comfortable with drilling and tapping your receiver or if a clamp-on mount is acceptable (though typically less secure).
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Ensure the mount is compatible with your chosen red dot sight's mounting system (Picatinny, Weaver).
- Budget: Prices vary significantly depending on materials, manufacturer, and features.
Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide (for Rail Mounts)
Note: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific mount. Improper installation can damage your firearm or cause safety hazards.
- Gather Tools: You'll need appropriate tools for drilling and tapping (if required), a torque wrench, and a gunsmith's vise (highly recommended).
- Secure the Firearm: Safely secure your Remington 870 in a gunsmith's vise to prevent accidental movement during installation.
- Prepare the Receiver: Clean the receiver thoroughly where the mount will be attached.
- Mark and Drill (if applicable): Carefully mark the drilling locations according to the mount's instructions. Drill slowly and precisely to avoid damage.
- Tap the Holes (if applicable): Tap the holes to the correct thread size and depth.
- Attach the Mount: Secure the mount to the receiver, ensuring it's properly aligned and tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque.
- Mount the Red Dot Sight: Install your red dot sight onto the mounted rail, following the sight's installation instructions.
- Zero the Sight: Take your shotgun to a range and zero your red dot sight.
Case Study: Comparing Two Popular Remington 870 Red Dot Mounts
| Feature | Mount A (Example: High-Profile Picatinny Rail) | Mount B (Example: Low-Profile Ghost Ring Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Height | High | Low |
| Material | Aluminum | Steel |
| Installation | Requires drilling and tapping | Replaces existing ghost ring sights; may require minor fitting |
| Cost | Moderate | High |
| Compatibility | Wide range of red dot sights | Limited to sights fitting the specific mount |
| Durability | Good | Excellent |
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Setup for Your Needs
Selecting a Remington 870 red dot mount involves careful consideration of your shooting style, budget, and desired level of customization. Remember to prioritize safety and proper installation. With the right mount and red dot sight, you can significantly improve your Remington 870's versatility and accuracy.