The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. However, many shooters find the factory trigger a bit clunky and heavy. Upgrading the trigger can significantly improve the shooting experience, leading to faster target acquisition and more precise shot placement. This guide will delve into the various options for Remington 870 trigger upgrades, helping you choose the best one for your needs and budget.
Why Upgrade Your Remington 870 Trigger?
The factory Remington 870 trigger is functional, but it often suffers from a long pull, heavy pull weight, and a gritty feel. These characteristics can negatively impact your shooting performance, especially in dynamic situations. An upgrade can provide several key benefits:
- Reduced Pull Weight: A lighter trigger pull reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions and allows for faster target acquisition.
- Improved Trigger Feel: A smoother, crisper trigger break enhances accuracy and control.
- Shorter Trigger Pull: A shorter pull length reduces the time it takes to fire the shotgun, crucial in self-defense or hunting scenarios.
- Enhanced Accuracy: A refined trigger contributes to improved accuracy and consistency.
Types of Remington 870 Trigger Upgrades
Several options exist for upgrading your Remington 870 trigger, ranging from simple drop-in replacements to more involved custom jobs. The best choice depends on your mechanical aptitude, budget, and desired level of improvement.
1. Drop-in Trigger Groups:
These are the easiest upgrades, requiring minimal gunsmithing skills. They typically replace the entire factory trigger group with a pre-assembled unit featuring improved components. Popular brands include:
- Magpul: Offers improved trigger pull weight and feel. Known for their robust and reliable designs.
- Timney: Provides a significantly lighter and crisper trigger pull, enhancing accuracy. Often considered a premium option.
- Wilson Combat: Offers high-quality trigger groups with various pull weight options to customize your experience.
Pros: Easy installation, readily available, various price points. Cons: May not offer the same level of customization as individual parts upgrades.
2. Individual Parts Upgrades:
This method involves replacing individual components within the factory trigger group, such as the trigger spring and sear. This allows for more fine-tuning and customization but requires more technical expertise. This often involves using specialized tools and a good understanding of firearm mechanics.
Pros: Allows for greater customization, potentially achieving the optimal trigger pull for your specific needs. Cons: Requires more technical skill and specialized tools, potentially more expensive than a complete drop-in unit.
3. Custom Trigger Jobs:
For those seeking the ultimate trigger experience, a professional gunsmith can perform a custom trigger job. This involves meticulously tuning and polishing the trigger group components for an incredibly smooth and light trigger pull.
Pros: The highest level of customization and performance, resulting in a truly exceptional trigger. Cons: Most expensive option, requires finding a reputable gunsmith.
Choosing the Right Upgrade
Selecting the appropriate Remington 870 trigger upgrade depends on your experience level and budget. Begin by assessing your shooting style and what aspects of the factory trigger you find most unsatisfactory. If you lack experience with firearm disassembly and assembly, a drop-in trigger group is the safest and easiest option. If you're comfortable working on firearms and desire more customization, individual parts upgrades or a custom gunsmith job might be worthwhile.
Remember to always prioritize safety. If you're not comfortable performing the upgrade yourself, seek the assistance of a qualified gunsmith. Improper installation can compromise the firearm's safety and reliability.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Remington 870 trigger can significantly improve your shooting experience. By understanding the different upgrade options and choosing the one that best fits your needs and skill level, you can unlock the full potential of this iconic shotgun. Remember to always prioritize safety and seek professional assistance if needed.
