The Remington 870 20 gauge is a versatile shotgun used for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. One of the most important aspects of this firearm is the barrel length, which directly impacts accuracy, maneuverability, and legal compliance. Understanding how to measure Remington 870 20 gauge barrel lengths ensures that you follow firearm regulations and select the right barrel for your needs.
In this guide, we will explain the correct methods to measure barrel length, discuss the importance of different barrel sizes, and provide tips to avoid common measurement mistakes.
H2: Understanding the Importance of Measuring Remington 870 20 Gauge Barrel Lengths
1. Why Barrel Length Matters in the Remington 870 20 Gauge
The barrel length of a Remington 870 20 gauge affects performance, legal classification, and shooting style. A longer barrel generally improves accuracy and range, making it ideal for hunting and trap shooting. A shorter barrel, on the other hand, enhances maneuverability, which is beneficial for home defense and tactical applications.
In addition to performance, knowing how to measure Remington 870 20 gauge barrel lengths is crucial for legal compliance. In the United States, the minimum legal shotgun barrel length is 18 inches under federal law. Measuring incorrectly could lead to unintentional violations of firearm regulations.
2. Different Barrel Length Options for the Remington 870 20 Gauge
The Remington 870 20 gauge is available with various barrel lengths, each suited for different shooting activities. Standard barrel sizes include 18.5 inches, 21 inches, 26 inches, and 28 inches.
- 18.5-inch barrels are common for home defense and tactical use, providing quick handling in confined spaces.
- 21-inch barrels are often used for youth models and turkey hunting, offering a balance of maneuverability and accuracy.
- 26-inch and 28-inch barrels are preferred for waterfowl hunting and trap shooting, maximizing range and shot pattern consistency.
Each length has its own advantages and trade-offs, so proper measurement ensures that you select the right barrel for your intended use.
H2: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Measure Remington 870 20 Gauge Barrel Lengths
3. Correct Method for Measuring a Shotgun Barrel
To accurately measure the barrel length of a Remington 870 20 gauge, the measurement should be taken from the breech face to the muzzle. The breech face is the area where the shell rests when the action is closed.
To measure the barrel length correctly:
- Ensure the shotgun is unloaded by checking the chamber and magazine.
- Close the action completely, as measurement starts from the breech face when the action is fully shut.
- Insert a wooden dowel, cleaning rod, or measuring tape down the barrel until it reaches the breech face.
- Mark the point where the rod exits the muzzle and measure the length using a tape measure or ruler.
This method provides the most accurate measurement and is the standard used by firearm manufacturers and legal authorities.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Barrel Length
Many shooters incorrectly measure barrel length, leading to misconceptions about firearm compliance and performance. One common mistake is measuring only the visible portion of the barrel without considering the chamber area inside the receiver.
Another frequent error is measuring with the action open, which results in shorter and inaccurate measurements. Always ensure the action is fully closed before taking any measurement.
Measuring from the muzzle to the end of a choke tube is also incorrect, as removable choke tubes are not included in barrel length calculations. The measurement should be taken only up to the end of the fixed barrel section.
5. Measuring Barrels with Fixed and Removable Chokes
The Remington 870 20 gauge often features interchangeable choke tubes, which can slightly alter the perceived length of the barrel. It’s important to know that the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives) does not count removable chokes as part of the official barrel length.
For fixed choke barrels, the measurement is straightforward, as the barrel and choke are permanently attached. However, for removable choke barrels, the length should be measured with the choke removed to get an accurate reading.
If your Remington 870 20 gauge has a vent rib barrel, ensure that the measuring rod or dowel is aligned straight within the bore to avoid miscalculations.
H2: Frequently Asked Questions About Measuring Remington 870 20 Gauge Barrel Lengths
6. What Is the Legal Minimum Barrel Length for a Remington 870 20 Gauge?
In the United States, the minimum legal shotgun barrel length is 18 inches, as regulated by the National Firearms Act (NFA). Any barrel shorter than this requires special federal registration and compliance with ATF regulations.
7. Can I Measure My Remington 870 Barrel with a Tape Measure?
Yes, but it must be done correctly. A tape measure alone is not accurate enough unless you use a wooden dowel or measuring rod inserted into the barrel to mark the correct length.
8. Do I Measure a Barrel with the Action Open or Closed?
You should always measure with the action fully closed, as this ensures that the entire chamber length is included in the measurement.
9. Are Interchangeable Choke Tubes Included in Barrel Length Measurements?
No, removable choke tubes are not included in the official barrel length measurement. If you are measuring a barrel with a choke tube installed, remove it before taking the measurement.
10. How Do I Know if My Remington 870 20 Gauge Barrel Is Too Short?
If you are unsure about your barrel length, use the dowel measurement method or consult the manufacturer’s specifications. If your barrel is shorter than 18 inches, it may be subject to NFA regulations.
11. Can I Replace My Remington 870 20 Gauge Barrel with a Different Length?
Yes, Remington 870 barrels are interchangeable, allowing users to swap between different lengths and choke configurations based on their shooting needs.
12. Does Barrel Length Affect Shotgun Accuracy?
Yes, longer barrels generally provide better accuracy and shot pattern control, while shorter barrels offer better maneuverability for close-quarters shooting.
13. How Does Barrel Length Affect Recoil?
A longer barrel adds weight to the shotgun, which can help reduce perceived recoil. Shorter barrels may increase recoil due to their lighter weight and compact design.
14. Are Short-Barreled Shotguns Illegal?
Shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches are classified as short-barreled shotguns (SBS) and require special ATF approval and registration under the NFA (National Firearms Act).
15. Can I Cut Down My Remington 870 20 Gauge Barrel?
Cutting down a barrel below 18 inches without proper ATF authorization is illegal. Always check state and federal firearm laws before modifying a shotgun barrel.
Conclusion
Knowing how to measure Remington 870 20 gauge barrel lengths is essential for choosing the right barrel, optimizing performance, and ensuring legal compliance. By following the correct measurement techniques, you can confidently verify your shotgun’s barrel length and make informed decisions about barrel swaps, legal compliance, and shooting applications.
Whether you’re using your Remington 870 20 gauge for hunting, home defense, or sport shooting, accurate barrel measurements ensure that you get the best performance while staying within legal regulations. Always use the correct measurement tools and methods to avoid errors and ensure your firearm meets all legal requirements. 🔥🔫
