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  • Post category:Barrels / Remington
  • Post last modified:September 17, 2023
  • Post published:November 30, 2022

Best Remington 870 Barrel

What is the Remington 870 barrel? 🧐

It refers to the cylindrical metal tube that is an essential part of the Remington 870 shotgun. The barrel is where the ammunition, such as shotgun shells, is loaded and fired from. It’s one of the most critical components of the firearm. Remington 870 shotguns are known for their versatility, and as a result, there are various types of barrels available for them.

Remington 870 barrel

Features 📚

A barrel for a Remington 870 shotgun can vary in features and specifications depending on its intended use. Here are some common features and characteristics:

❇️ Length: They are available in various lengths, typically ranging from 18.5 inches to 30 inches or more. The choice of barrel length depends on the intended use, with shorter barrels often used for home defense and longer barrels for hunting or sport shooting.

❇️ Material: Most barrels are made from steel. Steel barrels are durable and can handle a variety of ammunition types. Some specialty barrels may feature different materials for specific purposes.

❇️ Choke System: A lot of barrels are equipped with a choke system or have interchangeable choke tubes. Chokes affect the spread pattern of shot pellets and are useful for different shooting scenarios, such as hunting or clay target sports.

❇️ Barrel Finish: Barrels can come with different finishes, such as blued, parkerized, or camo finishes. These finishes protect against corrosion and can also have an aesthetic appeal.

Our Top Pick
Remington RXBL 870 IC Barrel
It is a premium choice that's all set for action, making it an ideal companion for those who engage in reloading. This barrel is thoughtfully equipped with an innovative All Purpose reload choke tube system, perfectly tailored for use with Remington shotshells. What's more, it has a convenient Rem-O-Bar feature that can be easily installed anywhere on your Remington 870 12-gauge barrel. This means that Remington enthusiasts can now make use of a standard 870 choke tube alongside Remington's own R reloading chokes, providing greater versatility.
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Benefits 🔥

A high-quality barrel for a Remington 870 shotgun can offer several benefits depending on the specific features and characteristics it possesses. Here are some of the key advantages:

  • ✴️ A well-crafted barrel with precise manufacturing can enhance the shotgun’s accuracy, especially at longer ranges. This is crucial for hunters and competitive shooters who require consistent and precise shot placement.
  • ✴️ Longer barrels, combined with appropriate choke tubes, can extend the effective range of your shotgun. This is particularly beneficial for hunters targeting game at greater distances.
  • ✴️ Some barrels are designed with features like porting or vent ribs to help reduce recoil and muzzle rise. This allows for quicker follow-up shots and increased shooting comfort.
  • ✴️ Quality barrels are built to withstand the rigors of shooting and adverse environmental conditions. They are often made from durable materials and may feature protective finishes to resist corrosion.

Benefits of Remington 870 barrel

18″ vs. 28″ barrel: Does length matter? 💡

Barrel length does matter when it comes to choosing a shotgun for home defense, and there are distinct advantages to using a shorter barrel, such as an 18-inch barrel, compared to a longer one, such as a 28-inch barrel. Here’s a comparison of the two for home defense:

Maneuverability: Shorter barrels, like an 18-inch one, offer greater maneuverability in confined spaces like hallways and rooms. They are less likely to snag on furniture or walls, making it easier to navigate your home quickly and efficiently.
Compactness: A shorter barrel contributes to a more compact and easily maneuverable firearm overall. This can be especially important when you need to move through tight spaces or store the shotgun securely.
Quick Target Acquisition: Shorter barrels allow for faster target acquisition, which is crucial in home defense situations where split-second decisions are necessary. They are easier to shoulder quickly and bring on target.
Reduced Collateral Damage: Shorter barrels help minimize the risk of over-penetration and collateral damage. With a shorter barrel, the shot pattern is less likely to spread too wide, reducing the chances of hitting unintended targets in adjacent rooms.
Intimidation Factor: The sound of racking a shotgun with a shorter barrel can be an effective deterrent and may discourage intruders without the need to fire a shot.

❗ While there are advantages to using a shorter barrel for home defense, it’s essential to choose the right ammunition for your shotgun. Buckshot and birdshot are common choices for home defense, as they provide effective stopping power while minimizing the risk of over-penetration.

Best Remington 870 Barrel Reviews

1# Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870 12GA Shotgun Barrel

Carlson's Choke Tubes Remington 870 12GA Shotgun Barrel

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Are you searching for an upgrade to your weapon system? The Carlson’s Remington 870 12 Gauge Shotgun Barrel is the best solution to help you gain accuracy. This shotgun barrel from Carlson’s Choke Tubes is constructed with ordinance-grade steel and has a chrome-lined bore for smooth firing. In addition to these high-quality materials, these barrel replacements also offer style and performance enhancement. Enhance your shooting precision while bringing elegance and durability to your gun system with this barrel today!

Pros:
  • Durable construction with grade steel
  • Chrome-lined bores for smooth firing
  • It comes with Carlson’s choke tubes installed
  • Red fluorescent front sight and brass center bead
Cons:
  • Right hand only
  • Doesn’t fit the Remington Tactical 870

 

2# Carlson’s Remington 870 Replacement Barrels

Carlson's Remington 870 Replacement Barrels

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Experience outstanding performance, versatility, and reliability with Carlson’s line of Remington 870 Replacement Barrels. Using this product, our team found that made from certified steel and featuring a chrome-lined bore, these barrels are designed to last. Models also include a powerful Carlson choke tube made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel – ideal for up-close defense. Add performance, versatility, and reliability to your hand cannon with these replacement barrels.

Pros:
  • Corrosion resistance
  • Bead-blasted
  • Non-vent ribbed and have a ramped front sight
  • Converts sporting pump shotgun into a slug gun
Cons:
  • Available only in black

 

3# Remington RXBL 870 Fully Rifled CL Barrel

Remington RXBL 870 Fully Rifled CL Barrel

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The Remington RXBL 870 Fully Rifled CL Barrel is excellent for the discerning hunter searching for advanced features and superior performance in their next firearm. This barrel offers unique features, allowing you to have total confidence in every shot you take. The patented “Sure Shot” choke tube system is designed to grow based on nitro pressure, making sure that each round is delivered with maximum effectiveness as conditions change during your hunting session. With a fully rifled bore, you’ll be able to keep sight of your target after every shot is fired.

Pros:
  • Patented “Sure Shot” choke tube system
  • Nitro-sized opening
  • Fully rifled bore
  • Comfort fit extension
Cons:
  • It may not be suitable for beginner shooters

 

4# Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge Fully Rifled Cantilever Shotgun Barrel

Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge Fully Rifled Cantilever Shotgun Barrel

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This black matte finish barrel is made with heavy-duty steel and is incredibly easy to install on your existing Remington. Featuring specially designed O-ring receiver technology, these barrels make easy work of removing shotgun shells. What makes this barrel stand out from other models is its fully rifled cantilever design, making it perfect for piercing through thick brush or waterfowl. No matter what type of conditions you find yourself shooting in, this barrel will come through for you and help keep those shots accurate and consistent.

Pros:
  • Easy installation
  • O-ring receiver for easy shell removal
  • Heavy-duty steel construction
  • Rifled cantilever design
Cons:
  • It may be heavy for some

 

5# Remington 870 Express 12 Gauge Fully Rifled Shotgun Barrel

Remington 870 Express 12 Gauge Fully Rifled Shotgun Barrel

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Ensure reliable accuracy and performance with this shotgun barrel. This top-of-the-line item was crafted by one of the most reliable names in shooting accessories, Remington Shooting and Hunting Accessories. Rigorously tested for durability, this barrel is made from only the strongest materials and will provide years of reliability. Based on our experience it meets even the highest standards for shotgun barrels, while its matte black finish gives it a tactical appearance suitable for both professional and recreational uses.

Pros:
  • Made from reliable materials
  • Has a matte black finish
  • Tactical appearance
  • Provide accurate performance
Cons:
  • Only comes in black
  • Somewhat expensive

 

6# Remington RXBL 870 EXP 12Ga VT MD Barrel

Remington RXBL 870 EXP 12Ga VT MD Barrel

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The Remington RXBL 870 EXP 12Ga VT MD Barrel is good for anyone looking to turn their 870 into an upgraded firearm. This barrel by Remington Shooting and Hunting Accessories offers a beavertail style forend that reduces felt recoil and a better bipod configuration for improved maneuverability. It is especially useful for turkey hunters who need just one gun that can do it all. The larger forend provides additional space, making this new barrel the ideal choice for any shooter.

Pros:
  • Offers a beavertail style forend
  • Reduces felt recoil
  • Has a better bipod configuration
  • Improved maneuverability
Cons:
  • It may not be suitable for big-game

 

7# Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer IC RS Barrel

Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer IC RS Barrel

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The Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer IC RS Barrel is the perfect choice for any outdoorsman looking to customize their Remington shotgun. Experience a reliable performance without fail every time you step out into nature. Buying this barrel means you won’t have to settle for just any ordinary barrel – you’ll be able to customize your Remington 870 with this branded barrel. You can look forward to the distinctive target rifling and the innovative In-line Buckshot wad that will provide superior accuracy and high-velocity shot performance. Despite its superior performance in the field, this original Remington shotgun barrel still boasts a long life that is sure to ensure your success in outings for years to come.

Pros:
  • Superior accuracy
  • High-velocity shot performance
  • In-line Buckshot wad
  • Long-lasting
Cons:
  • It may be too long for some shooters

 

8# Remington RXBL 870 EXP CB HD Barrel

Remington RXBL 870 EXP CB HD Barrel

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Searching for the best value on a Remington RXBL 870 EXP 12Ga 18in CB HD Barrel? The Remington Shooting and Hunting Accessories brand promises quality in every product, and this shotgun barrel is no exception. Purchase with confidence knowing this barrel has been crafted with durable, dependable materials that will provide years of performance. Based on our own experience the 18-inch length makes it compatible with many Remington firearms, offering you maximum versatility. Add this to your collection and enjoy superior-grade shooting experiences for years to come.

Pros:
  • Crafted with durable materials
  • Reliable
  • Superior-grade shooting experiences
  • Maximum versatility
Cons:
  • Available only in one color

 

9# Remington RXBL 870 EXP TKY E-Full MT Barrel

Remington RXBL 870 EXP TKY E-Full MT Barrel

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Enjoy precision accuracy and unstoppable performance with the Remington RXBL 870 EXP TKY E-Full MT Barrel. Designed to boost the performance of your Remington shotgun, this barrel replacement ensures you get the exact performance and look you want. Its slim profile offers an improved grip, while the ribbed vent design offers a slightly wider bore for a smoother experience. With a single groove and field crown, this rifle barrel is ideal for shooters who need a wider round with less overall weight.

Pros:
  • Slim profile for improved grip
  • Vent ribbed design
  • Smooth experience
  • Single groove and field crown
Cons:
  • Pricey
  • It may be too narrow for some

 

10# Remington RXBL 870 EXP Fully Rifled RS Barrel

Remington RXBL 870 EXP Fully Rifled RS Barrel

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Introducing the Remington RXBL 870 EXP 20Ga 20in Fully Rifled RS Barrel – an amazing piece of weaponry designed to provide you with reliable and efficient performance. With its superior design, this barrel is crafted from some of the most resilient materials available, making it stand out against the competition for longevity and quality. So, if you’re looking for an extremely durable and long-lasting product that won’t let you down when push comes to shove, then you can rest assured the barrel is exactly what you are chasing. The twenty-inch barrel makes it ideal for those requiring a power-packed device, so no matter your goal there’ll be something to suit all expectations here.

Pros:
  • Robust
  • Multiple years of reliability
  • Developed for optimal performance
  • Power-packed device
Cons:
  • Include no instruction for install

 

11# Remington RXBL 870 IC Barrel

Remington RXBL 870 IC Barrel

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The RXBL 870 12Ga 18P IC Barrel is a top-of-the-line barrel designed using premium materials and the latest engineering technology. It’s lightweight yet heavy-duty, allowing you to take it anywhere without sacrificing reliability or accuracy. The barrel features a matte black finish that reduces glare and reflection, lending a sleek, professional look. Our research has shown that the barrel is exceptionally durable and impact-resistant, and its chrome-lined chamber offers ultimate precision. This exceptional shotgun accessory is perfect for hunters, target shooters, law enforcement personnel, and anyone who needs accuracy and dependability in tough conditions.

Pros:
  • Impact-resistant
  • Chrome-lined chamber for ultimate precision
  • Matte black finish
  • No glare and reflection
Cons:
  • It may not be suitable for beginner

 

12# Remington RXBL 870 WNG VT RC Barrel

Remington RXBL 870 WNG VT RC Barrel

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Experience superior long-range target performance with this barrel. It comes from one of the most trusted names in firearm innovation and features a unique Black Load process for improved strength and quicker cyclic rate. Every rifle-bore area is lapped for enhanced durability and accuracy due to a more uniform rifling pattern, while state-of-the-art power bolt safety prevents any misfires or other damages to your weapon. Best of all, this compact and versatile barrel also utilizes a ramp on the buttstock that provides an excellent solid shoulder fit so you can stay stable during firing.

Pros:
  • Long-range target performance
  • Black Load process for quicker cyclic rate
  • Rifle-bore area lapped for enhanced accuracy
  • Power bolt safety
Cons:
  • Does not come with a carrying case

 

13# Remington RXBL 870 EXP RC MD Barrel

Remington RXBL 870 EXP RC MD Barrel

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This barrel is the best choice for any shooter looking to get the maximum performance out of their shotgun. This 30-inch barrel is made with the most durable and reliable materials available and is designed for long-term reliability you can rely on. With precision-level craftsmanship and attention to detail, this barrel can ensure accuracy and consistent performance in all types of shooting environments. Whether you’re searching for competition-level performance or just some fun at the range, the Remington RXBL 870 EXP RC MD Barrel is sure to deliver every time!

Pros:
  • Durable construction
  • Designed for accuracy and consistency
  • Suitable for a variety of shooting environments
  • Made with the most sturdy materials
Cons:
  • Available only in one color

 

14# Mossberg Tactical Model 870 Stand-Off Barrel

Mossberg Tactical Model 870 Stand-Off Barrel

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The Mossberg Tactical Model 870 Stand-Off Barrel is ideal for the customer who wants to update their Remington 870 and upgrade to the top-of-the-line. Crafted from heavy-duty steel, this barrel is made to endure, with 18.5 inches of length and a cylinder choke type. According to our experience, a bead sight adds accuracy, so every shot counts, while a matte blue finish provides an attractive look that stands out in any situation. With its hefty construction and precise sight, such a barrel is perfect for the person who needs a professional-grade firearm accessory that promises satisfaction.

Pros:
  • Professional-grade firearm accessory
  • Cylinder choke type
  • Precise bead sight
  • Made from steel
Cons:
  • Not compatible with 870 12 Gauge 3.5″ Magnum models

 

15# Mossberg Remington 870 12 Gauge Security Barrel

Mossberg Remington 870 12 Gauge Security Barrel

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The Mossberg Remington 870 12 Gauge Security Barrel is the perfect addition to your shotgun. Crafted from high-quality steel and featuring a blued finish, this barrel is built for long-lasting durability. The 18.5-inch length is optimal for home defense and other security needs, providing you with the performance you need in a pinch. There’s also a front bead sight to help increase accuracy when aiming. Get dependable performance and have confidence in your equipment every time you go out shooting with this barrel today!

Pros:
  • Sleek look
  • Perfect for home defense or other security needs
  • Front bead sight helps improve accuracy
  • Dependable performance every shoot
Cons:
  • High price tag

 

16# Mossberg Remington 870 12 Gauge Slug Barrel

Mossberg Remington 870 12 Gauge Slug Barrel

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This slug barrel offers superior performance and value for the avid outdoorsman. As a result of our tests, we determined that the 24″ blued barrel features adjustable sights, making it easy to adjust the sighting plane and take precise shots on the range or out in the field. This barrel is crafted with premium internal workmanship for consistent accuracy and smooth operation shot after shot. Enhance your rifle-style shooting today with the Mossberg Remington 870 12 Gauge Slug Barrel!

Pros:
  • Value for the avid outdoorsman
  • Adjustable sights
  • Consistent accuracy
  • Durable construction
Cons:
  • The barrel is not threaded

 

How to swap a barrel? 🧑‍🔧

Swapping the barrel on a Remington 870 shotgun is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s essential to follow safety guidelines and ensure the firearm is unloaded before beginning any work.

🛠️ Required Tools and Materials:

  • ⚙️ Remington 870 shotgun;
  • ⚙️ New barrel;
  • ⚙️ Allen wrench (if applicable);
  • ⚙️ Owner’s manual (for reference).

✍️ General steps:

➡️ Step 1: Ensure Safety

⚡ Make sure the shotgun is unloaded by visually and physically checking the chamber and magazine tube to ensure there are no rounds present. Keep the shotgun pointed in a safe direction.

⚡ Engage the safety mechanism if your shotgun has one.

➡️ Step 2: Remove the Old Barrel

⚡ Locate the barrel takedown nut or magazine cap at the end of the magazine tube, near the barrel/magazine tube junction.

⚡ Using the appropriate tool (often a wrench or an Allen wrench, depending on the model), loosen and remove the barrel takedown nut or magazine cap by turning it counterclockwise. Set it aside.

⚡ Carefully slide the old barrel forward and out of the receiver. Ensure it’s clear of the shotgun.

➡️ Step 3: Install the New Barrel

⚡ Take the new barrel and insert it into the receiver, aligning the barrel lug with the corresponding slot in the receiver.

⚡ Once the barrel is fully inserted and seated, thread on the barrel takedown nut or magazine cap by turning it clockwise. Tighten it securely, but be careful not to over-tighten it, as this can affect the shotgun’s reliability.

➡️ Step 4: Function Check ⚡ Rack the shotgun’s action (pump the forend back and forth) to ensure that the new barrel is securely attached and functions properly.
➡️ Step 5: Test Fire (Optional) ⚡ If you have any doubts about the new barrel’s fit or function, it’s a good idea to test-fire it at a shooting range to ensure it performs correctly.

📌 Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and safety recommendations when working with firearms. Additionally, keep your owner’s manual handy for reference, as specific Remington 870 models may have slight variations in the takedown and assembly process.

FAQ 🤓

What is the best material for a shotgun barrel?

🔍 The choice of material for a shotgun barrel depends on the intended use and personal preferences. The two most common materials for shotgun barrels are steel and, less commonly, aluminum. Here’s a breakdown of each:

🟣 Steel: It is the most traditional and widely used material for shotgun barrels. 🟣 Aluminum: Some modern shotguns, particularly semi-automatic or lightweight models, use aluminum alloy barrels.

💥 Durability: Steel is strong and durable, making it capable of withstanding the stress and pressures associated with firing shotgun shells over time.

💥 Longevity: Steel barrels have a longer service life compared to other materials, provided they are properly cared for.

💥 Versatility: Steel barrels are suitable for a wide range of shotgun applications, from hunting to sport shooting.

💥 Lightweight: Aluminum barrels are significantly lighter than steel barrels, which can be advantageous for reducing overall firearm weight.

💥 Reduced Recoil: The lighter weight of aluminum barrels can result in reduced recoil, making the shotgun more manageable, especially for smaller shooters or in firearms designed for reduced recoil.

💥 Corrosion Resistance: Some aluminum barrels are treated with protective coatings to enhance their corrosion resistance.

😉 The choice between steel and aluminum barrels depends on your specific needs and preferences. For most traditional applications, such as hunting or general-purpose use, steel barrels are the preferred choice due to their durability and longevity. However, aluminum barrels can be suitable for specialized purposes like competitive sport shooting, where weight reduction and reduced recoil are desirable.

What is the difference between shotgun barrels?

⭕ Shotgun barrels can vary significantly in several aspects, including length, choke, and material. These differences can have a substantial impact on the shotgun’s performance and intended use. Here are some of the key differences between shotgun barrels:

💣 Barrel Length: The length of a shotgun barrel is a crucial factor that affects its performance. Shorter barrels, often around 18 to 20 inches, are favored for home defense and close-quarters shooting due to their maneuverability. Longer barrels, typically 26 inches or more, are preferred for hunting and sport shooting because they provide improved accuracy and a longer sight radius.
💣 Choke:

The choke of a shotgun barrel determines the spread of shot pellets. Common choke types include:

💠 Cylinder (C): No constriction, resulting in a wide shot pattern. Suitable for close-range shooting or shooting slugs.

💠 Improved Cylinder (IC): Slightly constricted, providing a slightly tighter pattern. Good for general hunting purposes.

💠 Modified (M): Moderate constriction, offering a balanced pattern suitable for a variety of game and shooting situations.

💠 Full (F): Significant constriction, creating a tight pattern ideal for longer-range shots, such as waterfowl hunting.

💣 Barrel Material: Shotgun barrels are typically made from steel, but some modern models use aluminum or other alloys to reduce weight. Steel barrels are known for their durability and longevity, while aluminum barrels are lighter but may have a shorter service life.
💣 Rifled vs. Smoothbore: Barrels can be either rifled or smoothbore. Rifled barrels have spiral grooves inside to stabilize slugs or sabot rounds, improving accuracy at longer distances. Smoothbore barrels are standard for shotguns, as they are designed to shoot shotshells effectively.
💣 Vent Rib: Some shotgun barrels have a vent rib, and a raised rib along the top of the barrel with ventilation slots. Vent ribs help dissipate heat and provide a sighting plane, often useful for more accurate aiming.
💣 Barrel Lining: Some premium shotgun barrels feature chrome lining or other treatments to enhance durability and corrosion resistance.
💣 Barrel Contour: Shotgun barrels may have different contours, such as plain, vent ribbed, or fully rifled. These contours can affect the shotgun’s weight, balance, and appearance.

✍️ The choice of shotgun barrel depends on the intended use. For example, home defense shotguns often have shorter barrels and cylinder chokes for close-quarters engagements. Hunting shotguns may have longer barrels with different choke options for specific games, and sport shooting shotguns can be highly specialized with features like vent ribs and interchangeable chokes for clay target sports.

What are the best types of rifling?

📢 The choice of rifling type depends on the type of firearm and its intended purpose. Rifling is the process of cutting spiral grooves into the bore of a firearm barrel, and it imparts a spin to the projectile (such as a bullet or slug) as it exits the barrel. This spin stabilizes the projectile, improving accuracy. Here are some common rifling types and their best applications:

  • ✔️ Conventional Rifling (Lands and Grooves): This is the most traditional rifling type, consisting of evenly spaced grooves and lands (raised areas) in the bore. Conventional rifling is suitable for most handguns and rifles, and it provides good accuracy and stability for a wide range of bullet types and velocities.
  • ✔️ Polygonal Rifling: Instead of traditional grooves and lands, polygonal rifling uses a rounded or polygonal bore shape. This design can offer several advantages, including increased bullet velocity, reduced fouling buildup, and potentially improved accuracy. It’s often used in semi-automatic handguns and specialty firearms.
  • ✔️ Micro-Groove Rifling: Micro-groove rifling has multiple, shallow grooves cut into the bore. This type is often found in rimfire rifles and some centerfire rifles. Micro-groove rifling can provide good accuracy but may be sensitive to fouling and can be more challenging to clean.
  • ✔️ Button Rifling: This rifling method involves pressing or swaging a button with the rifling pattern into the barrel. Button rifling is known for its precision and is commonly used in match-grade rifle barrels. It can offer excellent accuracy and consistency.
  • ✔️ Rifled Shotgun Barrels: Shotgun barrels may feature a variety of rifling types, including conventional, smoothbore, or specialized rifling for specific types of slugs or saboted projectiles. The choice depends on the intended use, with smoothbore barrels being common for shotshell use and rifled barrels for slug shooting.

😀 The “best” rifling type depends on the firearm’s intended application and the shooter’s preferences. Conventional rifling is suitable for most rifles and handguns and offers good all-around performance. However, specialized rifling types, such as polygonal or button rifling, may provide advantages in specific situations, such as increased bullet velocity or reduced fouling.

Do longer barrels make guns more powerful?

🤨 No, they do not inherently make guns more powerful. The length of a firearm’s barrel primarily affects factors like bullet velocity, accuracy, and the weapon’s overall handling characteristics, but it doesn’t directly increase the intrinsic power of the ammunition. Here’s how barrel length can impact firearms:

✒️ Bullet Velocity: Longer barrels generally provide more time for the expanding gases from the ignited gunpowder to accelerate the bullet as it travels down the barrel. This can result in increased bullet velocity, which may lead to flatter trajectories and improved long-range accuracy. Conversely, shorter barrels may reduce bullet velocity.
✒️ Accuracy: Longer barrels can contribute to improved accuracy due to the longer sight radius (the distance between the front and rear sights) and the potential for increased bullet stability as it exits the barrel.
✒️ Recoil: Longer barrels can help reduce felt recoil by allowing more space for gas expansion, which can make the firearm more comfortable to shoot, especially when using more powerful ammunition.
✒️ Muzzle Energy: Muzzle energy, which is a measure of a bullet’s potential power, is influenced by factors like bullet weight and velocity, not barrel length. Different ammunition types and loads will affect muzzle energy more significantly than barrel length.
✒️ Handling: Longer barrels can make a firearm longer and heavier, affecting its maneuverability. Shorter barrels are often preferred for close-quarters combat, while longer barrels are better suited for precision shooting or hunting.

📌 It’s important to note that the type of firearm and ammunition used play a significant role in determining the effectiveness or “power” of the weapon. The cartridge or ammunition used, bullet design, and propellant load have a more direct impact on the firearm’s performance and terminal ballistics than barrel length alone.

Does barrel length affect range?

😉 Yes, barrel length can affect the effective range of a firearm, particularly in terms of accuracy and bullet velocity. Here’s how barrel length impacts range:

🧩 Bullet Velocity: The length of a firearm’s barrel can influence the speed at which a bullet exits the muzzle. Longer barrels provide more time for the expanding gases from the ignited gunpowder to accelerate the bullet as it travels down the barrel. This typically results in higher bullet velocities, which can extend the effective range of the firearm.
🧩 Accuracy:  Longer barrels can contribute to improved accuracy due to the longer sight radius. A longer sight radius allows for more precise aiming, which is especially beneficial at extended ranges.
🧩 Terminal Ballistics:  While barrel length primarily affects bullet velocity and accuracy, it can indirectly influence terminal ballistics at longer ranges. A bullet with higher velocity will retain more energy and may exhibit different terminal ballistics (such as expansion or fragmentation) when it reaches the target.
🧩 Practical Limitations:  However, it’s essential to note that barrel length alone isn’t the only factor determining effective range. Other factors, such as bullet design, wind conditions, shooter skill, and the quality of the firearm’s sights or optics, also play significant roles in determining the range at which a firearm can effectively engage targets.

⌛️ In summary, barrel length can affect the effective range of a firearm by influencing bullet velocity, accuracy, and terminal ballistics. Longer barrels tend to provide higher bullet velocities and improved accuracy, making them advantageous for long-range shooting. However, it’s essential to consider other factors that contribute to effective range and ensure that the ammunition and firearm are suited for the intended use.

Conclusion 😊

When it comes to choosing a Remington 870 barrel, there are many things to consider. In this article, we’ve covered some of the most important factors to consider when making your purchase, as well as shared reviews of some of the best products on the market. We hope that our buyer’s guide has helped you narrow down your options and make an informed decision about which barrel is right for you.🤠👍

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Vann Torres
Vann Torres
4 months ago

I’m in search of recommendations for an 18.5-inch barrel replacement for my Remington 870 shotgun. I’m looking for a reliable and suitable option to enhance the performance of my shotgun for specific purposes. Any suggestions or advice on available barrel options would be greatly appreciated.

    Underlake
    Underlake
    4 months ago
    Reply to  Vann Torres

    The Mossberg Remington 870 12 Gauge Security Barrel has proven to be a reliable choice for me. It has performed exceptionally well, even when paired with a 3-round extension tube.

      Zain Gonzales
      Zain Gonzales
      4 months ago
      Reply to  Vann Torres

      I’ve been exploring barrel options, but it appears that the Carlson’s Choke Tubes Remington 870 12GA Shotgun Barrel dominates the market. So, I bought one for myself and it was an awesome choice – I highly recommend it!

        Conrad
        Conrad
        4 months ago

        I currently have an 18-inch barrel for home defense but am interested in acquiring a 23-inch barrel for range shooting and hunting. I’m looking for recommendations on a suitable barrel and would appreciate advice on where to make the purchase. Thank you.

          Erick Bryant
          Erick Bryant
          4 months ago
          Reply to  Conrad

          I own the Remington 870 Express model, which includes a Remington RXBL 870 EXP CB HD Barrel and a Remington RXBL 870 Fully Rifled CL Barrel. For hunting in blinds, I prefer the Remington RXBL 870 EXP CB HD Barrel, but I find both barrels to be suitable for use in wooded areas or stands.

            Barrowes
            Barrowes
            4 months ago
            Reply to  Conrad

            I would suggest considering the 20-inch Remington RXBL 870 EXP Fully Rifled RS Barrel if you’re looking for a versatile option for both range shooting and hunting. You might also discover that for home defense purposes, there’s no compelling reason to switch back to the 18.5-inch barrel.

              August Clark
              August Clark
              4 months ago

              I currently own a Remington 870 Express (manufactured before 2007) with a 28-inch barrel. While it’s a solid firearm, I’ve been considering my options for home defense. I’m contemplating the idea of getting a replacement barrel for my 870 and using it for home defense, given that it’s a well-built shotgun. Can I expect one barrel to last, or would it be more prudent to save up a bit more for a Mossberg 590 or 590A1 shotgun? Your insights would be greatly appreciated.

                Sigefroy
                Sigefroy
                4 months ago
                Reply to  August Clark

                I’m currently on a similar quest, and I must admit it’s proving to be quite a challenge. Carlson’s Remington 870 Replacement Barrels have received high ratings, and I did have a favorable experience with them. Interestingly, I’ve noticed that Mossberg manufactures 870 barrels, but I’ve been struggling to find them in stock. So, now my choice is to buy a barrel, not a new shotgun.

                  Patrick Simmons
                  Patrick Simmons
                  4 months ago

                  I’m specifically looking for a defensive shotgun that I can easily swap the barrel and tube. Your input and advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

                    Heathertoes
                    Heathertoes
                    4 months ago

                    I own the Remington 870 Express 12-gauge shotgun, which I purchased back in 2018, and I must say it’s been a reliable workhorse. Over the years, I’ve put several thousand rounds through it, and I’ve never experienced a misfire. Occasionally, I’ve encountered ejection issues, but those were easily resolved by deburring the ejection port, and I haven’t had any problems since. In terms of maintenance, I’ve field-stripped the shotgun only a handful of times for cleaning. Typically, I run a bore snake through it and clean the choke tube after each use. I have noticed that the polymer parts tend to compress slightly under heavy use, particularly the forend and buttstock, so I’ve had to tighten the screws a few times. Looking ahead, I’m planning to upgrade the barrel to a Remington RXBL 870 EXP 12Ga VT MD Barrel. Overall, I can confidently say that the Remington 870 is a reliable shotgun with a wide range of replacement barrel and choke tube options available, making it a versatile and dependable choice.