The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. One of the most frequently asked questions regarding this iconic firearm centers around its magazine capacity. This guide will delve into the specifics of Remington 870 magazine capacity, exploring various factors that influence it and providing crucial information for both novice and experienced shotgun users.
Understanding Remington 870 Magazine Variations
The magazine capacity of a Remington 870 isn't a single, fixed number. It varies significantly depending on several key factors:
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Model: Remington 870s come in a vast array of models, each designed for specific purposes. Some models, such as those intended for hunting, may have shorter magazines compared to those designed for law enforcement or tactical applications.
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Barrel Length: While not directly impacting the magazine tube itself, barrel length influences the overall length of the shotgun, which in turn can affect the legality and practicality of longer magazine tubes.
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State Laws: Magazine capacity restrictions vary widely across different states and jurisdictions. Understanding your local regulations is crucial before modifying or purchasing a Remington 870 with an extended magazine.
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Aftermarket Modifications: Numerous aftermarket companies offer extended magazine tubes for the Remington 870, significantly increasing its capacity beyond the factory standard.
Standard Remington 870 Magazine Capacity
The standard Remington 870 typically holds 4 rounds in the magazine tube, plus one in the chamber, resulting in a total capacity of 5 rounds. This is a common configuration across many hunting and sporting models.
Extended Magazine Tubes and Capacity
For those seeking increased capacity, extended magazine tubes are readily available. These can boost the magazine capacity to 7, 8, or even more rounds, depending on the specific tube and model of the shotgun. However, it's vital to remember the legal limitations in your area. Some jurisdictions strictly regulate the capacity of shotguns, and exceeding these limits can result in legal penalties.
Factors Affecting Effective Magazine Capacity
While the physical magazine tube might hold a certain number of rounds, several factors can affect the effective capacity:
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Ammunition Type: The length and type of ammunition used can influence how many rounds fit within the magazine tube. Using shorter shells can sometimes allow for one or two extra rounds.
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Magazine Tube Condition: A worn or damaged magazine tube might not reliably feed all rounds.
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Proper Loading: Incorrect loading techniques can lead to malfunctions and reduced effective capacity.
Legal Considerations Regarding Magazine Capacity
Always check and comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm magazine capacities. It's your responsibility to ensure that any modifications you make to your Remington 870 comply with all applicable laws. Failure to do so can have severe legal consequences.
Conclusion: Understanding Your Remington 870's Capacity
The Remington 870's magazine capacity is not a fixed value; it's determined by the model, modifications, and legal restrictions in place. Careful consideration of all these factors is paramount for responsible and legal firearm ownership. Before making any modifications, research the laws in your area and ensure you understand the implications of altering your shotgun's magazine capacity. Remember, safe and responsible gun ownership involves thorough knowledge and adherence to all applicable regulations.
