The Remington 870 shotgun, a venerable workhorse, has earned its place as a staple in law enforcement, home defense, and sporting circles. Its adaptability is a key part of its enduring appeal, and few upgrades enhance both functionality and aesthetics quite like a Magpul Remington 870 forend. This guide delves into the world of Magpul forends for the 870, exploring their features, benefits, and considerations to help you decide if it's the right upgrade for your shotgun.
Why Choose a Magpul Forend for Your Remington 870?
Magpul, renowned for its high-quality firearm accessories, offers several forend options designed to improve the Remington 870's handling and ergonomics. These aren't just cosmetic enhancements; they offer tangible benefits for shooters:
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Improved Grip and Control: Magpul forends typically feature a textured surface and ergonomic design, providing a more secure and comfortable grip, especially in challenging conditions. This translates to improved accuracy and faster target acquisition.
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Enhanced Stability: The increased surface area and often-included M-LOK slots allow for the attachment of accessories like lights, lasers, and vertical grips, further enhancing stability and versatility.
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Durability and Reliability: Magpul products are known for their robust construction, utilizing high-quality polymer materials that can withstand the rigors of use. This translates to a forend that will hold up to years of use.
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Modernized Appearance: Let's face it, the Magpul forend gives your classic Remington 870 a significant aesthetic upgrade, moving it from a utilitarian design to a more modern and tactical look.
Types of Magpul Remington 870 Forends
Magpul offers a variety of forends compatible with the Remington 870, each with its own set of features:
MOE (Magpul Original Equipment) Forend:
This is often a popular entry point. It provides a significant improvement over the standard Remington 870 forend, offering enhanced ergonomics and a more secure grip. It's a great balance of cost and functionality.
SGA (Shotgun Grip Adapter):
Designed for use with the MOE forend, the SGA provides an additional vertical grip point, enhancing control and stability, particularly during close-quarters engagements.
Other Magpul Accessories:
While not strictly forends, Magpul also offers other accessories that complement their 870 forends, such as pistol grips and stocks, allowing for a comprehensive upgrade of your shotgun's ergonomics.
Installation and Compatibility
Installing a Magpul Remington 870 forend is generally straightforward, although some models may require minor adjustments or the use of specific tools. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific details on installation and compatibility. Understanding your specific Remington 870 model (e.g., Wingmaster, Express, etc.) is crucial to ensure proper fit. Certain Magpul forends might not be compatible with all 870 variants.
Considerations Before Purchasing
Before investing in a Magpul Remington 870 forend, consider these factors:
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Budget: While Magpul forends offer excellent value, they are typically more expensive than standard forends.
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Specific Needs: Determine what features are most important to you. Do you need M-LOK slots for accessories? Do you want a vertical grip? Choose the forend that best suits your shooting style and needs.
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Compatibility: Double-check compatibility with your specific Remington 870 model to avoid any issues during installation.
Conclusion
The Magpul Remington 870 forend represents a significant upgrade for any shooter looking to improve the ergonomics, handling, and overall experience of their classic shotgun. By carefully considering your needs and budget, you can select the perfect Magpul forend to transform your Remington 870 into a more versatile and reliable firearm. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with a qualified firearms professional if you have any questions or concerns regarding installation or use.
