Introduction
The sharp crack of the shot, the satisfying thud of a hit on target – the Remington 870 shotgun has earned its place as an American icon. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a clay shooting enthusiast, or someone seeking home defense security, the 870 delivers. However, that raw power comes with a price: significant recoil. While the Remington 870 is known for its reliability, the forceful kick can quickly turn an enjoyable outing into a painful ordeal. This is where the crucial role of a Rem 870 recoil pad becomes evident. It’s more than just an accessory; it’s a fundamental component for enhancing comfort, accuracy, and overall enjoyment of your shooting experience.
Understanding the Mechanics of Recoil
The Remington 870 is a workhorse, a shotgun praised for its versatility and durability. From the duck blind to the tactical range, it’s a weapon that demands respect. But respect also means understanding the forces at play when you pull the trigger. When a shell is fired, a powerful explosion occurs within the chamber, propelling the shot down the barrel. The reaction, according to Newton’s Third Law of Motion (for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction), is the recoil you feel. The momentum of the shot and the expanding gases are transferred to the firearm, causing it to move backward against your shoulder.
Factors Influencing Recoil
Several factors influence the amount of recoil you experience. The load of the shell, measured in dram equivalents or grains, significantly impacts felt recoil. Heavier loads, designed for longer ranges or larger game, naturally produce more force. The weight of the shotgun itself also plays a crucial role. A heavier shotgun will absorb more of the recoil energy. Finally, the individual shooter’s build and physiology come into play. Shoulder and upper body strength can impact how well you absorb the force.
Consequences of Excessive Recoil
Excessive recoil is more than just an inconvenience; it can negatively impact your shooting in multiple ways. Discomfort and bruising are common consequences. More concerning is flinching, a subconscious anticipation of the recoil that causes you to close your eyes or jerk the gun before the shot is fired. This severely compromises accuracy. Moreover, strong recoil slows down follow-up shots, critical in situations where multiple targets or quick follow-up shots are necessary. In essence, recoil interferes with the fun and effectiveness of shooting your Remington 870. This is where a high-quality Rem 870 recoil pad enters the equation.
Benefits of Using a Recoil Pad
The primary goal of a Rem 870 recoil pad is recoil reduction. A well-designed recoil pad is made from specialized materials that absorb and dissipate the energy generated by the shot. This absorption is achieved by the pad compressing and deforming, converting some of the kinetic energy into heat. This significantly lessens the felt recoil transferred to your shoulder, dramatically enhancing the comfort during shooting sessions.
Increased Comfort During Shooting
The reduction of recoil directly translates into increased comfort. No longer will you dread the kick of each shot. This allows for longer shooting sessions without fatigue and discomfort. You can practice more, hone your skills, and enjoy the sport or task at hand more fully. Shooting becomes an enjoyable experience rather than a physically demanding one.
Accuracy Improvement
Beyond comfort, a Rem 870 recoil pad can improve your shooting accuracy. By reducing flinching and allowing you to maintain a more stable shooting position, the recoil pad promotes consistency. This, in turn, leads to more accurate shots. The ability to maintain a steady sight picture is fundamental for placing your shots precisely where you intend.
Enhanced Safety
A good recoil pad contributes to the safety of the shooter. By absorbing impact, you will reduce the chance of shoulder injuries or bruises that could sideline you for days. This allows you to practice more, refine your shooting form, and become a safer and more confident shooter.
Types of Recoil Pads for the Rem 870
There’s a wide array of options to choose from when picking a Rem 870 recoil pad. Let’s explore some of these options and considerations. It’s important to choose one that suits your specific needs.
Factory-Installed versus Aftermarket Options
The market presents you with a range of choices, from factory-installed pads to a multitude of aftermarket alternatives. Factory-installed pads, supplied with the original shotgun, typically offer adequate recoil reduction, but sometimes might not have the best design and materials. Aftermarket pads, offered by various manufacturers, often offer superior recoil absorption, improved comfort, and a greater range of customization options.
Material Choices
The materials used in recoil pads also influence their performance. One option is rubber. Rubber pads are often the most affordable, offering a solid balance of recoil absorption and grip. They are very common, but might not be the best choice for those shooting heavier loads. They also might deteriorate faster than other types.
Gel-Filled Pads
Another popular choice is gel-filled pads. These pads incorporate a viscoelastic gel that excels at absorbing impact. This makes them a great option for anyone seeking maximum recoil reduction. While gel pads often offer premium performance, they might be more expensive than rubber pads. The gel can also be temperature-sensitive, becoming firmer in cold weather.
Air-Filled Pads
Air-filled recoil pads offer yet another option, utilizing air chambers to cushion the shoulder. Some models offer the advantage of adjustability, allowing shooters to fine-tune the pad’s performance. They can be quite effective, but they may come with a higher price tag and require more care compared to simple rubber or gel options.
Slip-on Recoil Pads
Another class of pads is slip-on recoil pads. These are designed for easy installation, typically just slipping over the existing stock of the Remington 870. While convenient, they may offer less significant recoil reduction compared to pads that are directly mounted to the stock. They are, however, an inexpensive way to test the waters of recoil reduction.
Adjustable Length of Pull Pads
Some recoil pads also come with an adjustment for the length of pull (LOP). This allows you to customize the distance from the trigger to the shoulder pad, which is key to a proper shooting stance and control, impacting both comfort and accuracy. This can be particularly beneficial for shooters with different body sizes or those who prefer to use thicker clothing.
Choosing the Right Recoil Pad for Your Rem 870
Choosing the Rem 870 recoil pad that is right for you should depend on several factors. Consider how you’ll primarily use your shotgun. Hunters using heavy loads will need a pad with exceptional recoil absorption. Sport shooters need the same, with special attention to how the pad will help them maintain a good stance on the range, allowing for better and more consistent shooting.
Considering Your Shotgun’s Stock
The physical dimensions of the Remington 870 stock is also vital. Some pads are stock-specific, and the Rem 870 recoil pad you choose must fit your model of 870.
Research and Reviews
Researching various brands and models is essential. Consider reading reviews from other shooters to gain insights into the real-world performance and durability of different pads. Look for reputable brands, known for quality construction and reliable performance. Also, consider the ease of the installation process before purchasing.
Installation and Maintenance
Before you install a Rem 870 recoil pad, measure the existing stock of your Remington 870 carefully. Some pads are designed to be a direct fit, while others might need trimming and shaping. Precise measurements will help guarantee a perfect fit.
Installation Steps
The installation process, while typically straightforward, may involve several steps. If you are unsure, consider seeking professional help to ensure a proper and secure fit. The old pad must first be removed. It’s as simple as unscrewing or removing the old one. Clean and prepare the surface of your stock where the new pad will be mounted. Depending on the pad, you might need to trim or shape it. Make sure it is perfectly aligned with the stock. Drill the screw holes, if they are needed, being careful to avoid any damage to the stock. Finally, install the new recoil pad, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Maintenance Tips
Even the best recoil pads require some basic maintenance. Regular cleaning can help preserve their performance and extend their lifespan. Inspect the pad periodically for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or degradation. Depending on use and wear, a replacement might be needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a Rem 870 recoil pad is a necessary investment for any Remington 870 owner. It is an essential element, drastically improving the shooting experience. By reducing recoil, a recoil pad enhances comfort, improves accuracy, and adds to the overall enjoyment of shooting your firearm. Don’t let the kick of the shotgun detract from your enjoyment. A thoughtfully chosen and properly installed recoil pad is your key to unlocking the full potential of your classic Remington 870. When you are ready to take your shooting to the next level, selecting the right recoil pad is a great place to start.
