The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. Its youth model in 20 gauge offers a fantastic entry point for young hunters and shooters, providing a manageable platform for learning and enjoying the sport safely and effectively. This guide delves into the specifics of the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge, covering its features, advantages, and considerations for parents and young shooters alike.
Why Choose a 20 Gauge for Youth?
The 20 gauge offers a compelling middle ground for young shooters. It's less powerful than a 12 gauge, resulting in less recoil, making it significantly more comfortable and manageable for smaller frames and less experienced shooters. This reduced recoil promotes better shooting habits, encourages continued practice, and minimizes the risk of injury associated with powerful recoil. While still offering sufficient stopping power for small game and appropriate hunting situations, the 20 gauge provides a safer and more enjoyable introduction to shotgun shooting.
Key Features of the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge
The Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge boasts several features specifically designed for younger shooters:
-
Reduced Length of Pull (LOP): The shorter LOP is crucial for proper fit and comfortable shouldering, preventing the gun from feeling too large and cumbersome. This ensures a more natural and consistent shooting stance.
-
Youth-Sized Stock: The stock is ergonomically designed to fit smaller builds, enhancing comfort and control. This proper fit is critical for accuracy and safety.
-
Lightweight Construction: The overall lighter weight of the firearm further reduces recoil and fatigue, making extended shooting sessions more enjoyable and less daunting for young shooters.
-
Reliable Pump-Action Mechanism: The proven Remington 870 pump-action mechanism is known for its ruggedness and reliability, ensuring consistent performance even under challenging conditions. This simple action is also easier for young shooters to master.
-
Versatility: The 870 platform is highly adaptable, allowing for various barrel configurations and choke tubes to suit different shooting disciplines, such as hunting, trap, or skeet, as the young shooter progresses.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge
When selecting a Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge, consider the following:
-
Proper Fit: It's vital to ensure the shotgun fits the young shooter correctly. The length of pull should allow for a comfortable and consistent cheek weld without straining. Consider visiting a gun store to try different models and sizes.
-
Accessories: Essential accessories include appropriate eye and ear protection, a gun case, and possibly a recoil pad for added comfort.
-
Ammunition Selection: Start with low-recoil 20 gauge ammunition designed for youth shooters. Gradually increase the shell power as the young shooter’s skills and strength improve.
Safety First: Essential Tips for Young Shooters
Safety is paramount when handling any firearm. Here are some fundamental safety rules to emphasize:
- Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
- Never point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
- Always wear appropriate eye and ear protection.
- Never shoot at a hard surface or water.
Conclusion: A Solid Foundation for Young Shooters
The Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge shotgun provides an excellent platform for introducing young people to the world of shooting sports. Its manageable size, reduced recoil, and reliable operation foster confidence and promote the development of proper shooting techniques. Remember to prioritize safety and ensure proper fit for a positive and enjoyable shooting experience. With proper guidance and practice, the Remington 870 Youth 20 Gauge can help nurture a lifelong passion for safe and responsible firearm ownership.
