Finding the right sling for your Remington 870 can significantly enhance your shooting experience, whether you're a hunter, a sportsman, or a home defender. A well-fitted sling improves stability, reduces fatigue during long hunts or tactical operations, and allows for quicker transitions between shooting positions. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect sling and mounting system for your Remington 870.
Understanding Remington 870 Sling Mount Options
Before selecting a sling, you need to understand how it will attach to your shotgun. The Remington 870, being a widely used and adaptable shotgun, offers several mounting options:
1. Using Existing Sling Swivel Studs
Many Remington 870 models come equipped with sling swivel studs, typically located on the receiver and the stock. These studs provide a straightforward mounting point for slings with swivel attachments. This is often the easiest and most cost-effective method.
- Pros: Simple, inexpensive, readily available.
- Cons: Limited placement options, may interfere with certain accessories.
2. Adding Sling Swivel Studs
If your Remington 870 lacks pre-installed sling swivel studs, you can easily add them. Numerous aftermarket options are available, including:
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Receiver-mounted studs: These attach directly to the receiver and provide a secure mounting point. Ensure compatibility with your specific model before purchase.
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Stock-mounted studs: These studs screw into the stock, providing another secure attachment point. Again, ensure proper fit and compatibility.
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Magazine cap swivel studs: Some shooters prefer to attach a swivel stud to the magazine cap, offering another attachment point for added stability and sling configuration flexibility.
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Pros: Increased flexibility in sling placement and configuration.
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Cons: Requires purchasing and installing additional hardware.
3. Utilizing Picatinny Rails
For maximum versatility, consider adding a Picatinny rail to your Remington 870. This rail allows you to mount a wide range of accessories, including sling mounts designed specifically for Picatinny rails. These provide exceptional customization and stability.
- Pros: Compatibility with a vast array of sling mounts and accessories.
- Cons: Requires purchasing and installing a Picatinny rail, potentially more expensive.
Choosing the Right Sling for Your Remington 870
With your mounting system sorted, let's explore the different types of slings available:
1. Single-Point Slings
These slings attach to a single point on the firearm, typically the receiver. They're known for their quick deployment and ease of use, making them popular for tactical applications.
- Pros: Quick deployment, good for close-quarters situations.
- Cons: Can be less stable than two-point slings for longer shots.
2. Two-Point Slings
Two-point slings attach to two points on the firearm (e.g., receiver and stock). These offer superior stability and are ideal for carrying a shotgun over longer distances.
- Pros: Superior stability, ideal for hunting and long-range shooting.
- Cons: Slower deployment than single-point slings.
3. Three-Point Slings
These slings provide even greater stability and control, allowing for a more secure carry. They’re often preferred by law enforcement and military personnel.
- Pros: Exceptional stability, customizable carry positions.
- Cons: More complex to adjust and use than other slings.
4. Tactical Slings
Tactical slings are designed for quick transitions and maneuverability. They often feature quick-detach buckles and durable materials for use in demanding environments.
- Pros: Durable, quick transitions between shooting positions.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than standard slings.
5. Hunting Slings
Hunting slings prioritize comfort and stability during long hunts. They are often made of softer materials and feature padded sections for carrying comfort.
- Pros: Comfort, stability for long periods.
- Cons: May not be suitable for rapid transitions or tactical use.
Case Study: Comparing Two Popular Remington 870 Sling Setups
Let's compare two popular setups:
Setup A: A standard two-point sling attached to factory-installed swivel studs. This is a budget-friendly, reliable option suitable for most hunting and recreational uses.
Setup B: A tactical three-point sling mounted to a Picatinny rail system. This setup provides superior stability and versatility, ideal for tactical situations or competitive shooting.
| Feature | Setup A | Setup B |
|---|---|---|
| Sling Type | Two-Point | Three-Point |
| Mounting System | Factory Swivel Studs | Picatinny Rail System |
| Cost | Low | High |
| Stability | Good | Excellent |
| Versatility | Moderate | High |
| Ideal Use Case | Hunting, Recreational Shooting | Tactical Shooting, Competition Shooting |
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Sling for Your Needs
The best sling for your Remington 870 depends entirely on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your intended use – hunting, home defense, or competition shooting – and choose a sling and mounting system that best suits your requirements. Remember to prioritize comfort, stability, and ease of use. With the right setup, your Remington 870 will become even more versatile and effective. Don't hesitate to experiment with different slings and mounting systems until you find the perfect combination for you.