Introduction to the Remington 870 Woodland Camo
The Remington 870 is an American icon, a shotgun revered for its reliability, versatility, and widespread availability. Among its many variations, the Remington 870 Woodland Camo stands out for its practical camouflage finish, making it a popular choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. This article delves into the specifics of the Remington 870 Woodland Camo, exploring its features, benefits, uses, and why it continues to be a favored shotgun among firearm enthusiasts.
The Legacy of the Remington 870
Before diving into the Woodland Camo variant, it’s essential to understand the historical significance of the Remington 870. Introduced in 1950, the Remington 870 quickly gained popularity for its robust design and smooth action. It replaced the Remington Model 31 as a more cost-effective and mass-producible shotgun. Over the decades, the Remington 870 has become one of the best-selling shotguns in history, trusted by hunters, law enforcement agencies, and recreational shooters alike.
Key Features of the Remington 870
- Pump-Action Mechanism: Known for its reliability and simplicity, the pump-action design allows for quick follow-up shots.
- Steel Receiver: The solid steel receiver provides exceptional durability and longevity.
- Versatile Platform: The Remington 870 is available in various gauges (12, 20, 16, 28, and .410) and configurations, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
- Aftermarket Support: An extensive aftermarket provides countless accessories and customization options.
The Allure of Woodland Camo
The Woodland Camo finish is more than just an aesthetic choice; it’s a functional enhancement designed to blend seamlessly into wooded environments. This camouflage pattern is particularly effective for hunters who pursue game in forests, fields, and other natural settings.
Benefits of Camouflage
- Concealment: The primary benefit of camouflage is to reduce visibility, allowing hunters to get closer to their quarry without being detected.
- Tactical Advantage: In tactical situations, camouflage can provide a crucial advantage by making it harder for opponents to spot the user.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Many shooters simply prefer the look of a camouflage finish, finding it more appealing than traditional blued or synthetic finishes.
Specific Features of the Remington 870 Woodland Camo
The Remington 870 Woodland Camo combines the proven reliability of the 870 platform with the practical benefits of a camouflage finish. Here’s a closer look at its key features:
Finish and Appearance
The most distinctive feature of this model is its Woodland Camo finish. This pattern typically consists of a mix of green, brown, black, and tan colors, designed to mimic the natural appearance of a forest environment. The finish is applied to the stock, forend, and sometimes the receiver and barrel, providing comprehensive concealment.
Gauge and Chamber
The Remington 870 Woodland Camo is most commonly available in 12-gauge, the most popular shotgun gauge for hunting and recreational shooting. It typically features a 3-inch chamber, allowing it to fire both 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells. Some models may also be available in 20-gauge, offering reduced recoil and a lighter overall weight.
Barrel Length and Choke
Barrel length can vary depending on the specific model and intended use. Common barrel lengths for the Remington 870 Woodland Camo include 26 inches and 28 inches, which are suitable for a variety of hunting applications. The shotgun often comes with interchangeable choke tubes, allowing the user to adjust the shot pattern for different ranges and target types. Common choke options include:
- Improved Cylinder: Provides a wider shot pattern for close-range targets.
- Modified: Offers a balance between range and pattern density.
- Full: Delivers a tight shot pattern for long-range targets.
Stock and Forend
The stock and forend are typically made from synthetic materials, which are durable and weather-resistant. The Woodland Camo finish is applied to these components, ensuring a consistent camouflage pattern throughout the shotgun. The stock may feature a recoil pad to help reduce felt recoil, making the shotgun more comfortable to shoot.
Sights
The Remington 870 Woodland Camo typically comes with a bead sight at the end of the barrel, which is simple and effective for quick target acquisition. Some models may also feature rifle sights or a cantilever scope mount, allowing for the attachment of optics for increased accuracy.
Uses for the Remington 870 Woodland Camo
The Remington 870 Woodland Camo is a versatile shotgun that can be used for a wide range of applications. Its camouflage finish makes it particularly well-suited for hunting, but it can also be used for recreational shooting, home defense, and tactical purposes.
Hunting
Hunting is the primary application for the Remington 870 Woodland Camo. Its camouflage finish helps hunters blend into their surroundings, increasing their chances of success. It can be used for hunting a variety of game, including:
- Deer: Using slugs or buckshot.
- Turkey: Using specialized turkey loads.
- Waterfowl: Using steel shot or other non-toxic loads.
- Small Game: Such as rabbits and squirrels, using birdshot.
Recreational Shooting
The Remington 870 Woodland Camo is also a great choice for recreational shooting activities such as:
- Trap and Skeet: Although not specifically designed for these sports, the 870 can be used for casual trap and skeet shooting.
- Sporting Clays: A more challenging shotgun sport that simulates hunting scenarios.
- General Target Practice: For honing shooting skills and familiarizing oneself with the shotgun.
Home Defense
While the camouflage finish may not be necessary for home defense, the Remington 870 is a reliable and effective firearm for protecting your home and family. Its pump-action design is simple to operate, and its 12-gauge chamber provides significant stopping power. Many shooters equip their 870s with accessories such as:
- Tactical Lights: For identifying threats in low-light conditions.
- Shell Holders: For quick access to extra ammunition.
- Improved Sights: For increased accuracy.
Tactical Applications
The Remington 870 has a long history of use in law enforcement and military applications. While the Woodland Camo finish may not be ideal for all tactical situations, it can be useful in wooded or rural environments. Tactical versions of the 870 often feature:
- Shorter Barrels: For increased maneuverability.
- Ghost Ring Sights: For fast and accurate target acquisition.
- Picatinny Rails: For mounting accessories such as lights and optics.
Maintaining Your Remington 870 Woodland Camo
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the reliability and longevity of your Remington 870 Woodland Camo. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help prevent malfunctions and keep your shotgun in top condition.
Cleaning
After each use, it’s important to clean your Remington 870 to remove any fouling or residue. This involves:
- Disassembling the Shotgun: Following the manufacturer’s instructions for disassembly.
- Cleaning the Barrel: Using a bore brush and cleaning solvent to remove any buildup.
- Cleaning the Action: Removing any dirt or grime from the receiver and other moving parts.
- Wiping Down Exterior Surfaces: Removing any fingerprints or moisture from the stock, forend, and metal surfaces.
Lubrication
After cleaning, it’s important to lubricate the moving parts of your Remington 870 to ensure smooth operation. Use a high-quality gun oil and apply it sparingly to:
- The Action: Including the bolt, slide, and trigger mechanism.
- The Barrel: A light coat of oil inside the bore to prevent rust.
- External Surfaces: To protect against corrosion.
Storage
When storing your Remington 870 Woodland Camo, it’s important to keep it in a safe and secure location. Consider using a gun safe or lockable case to prevent unauthorized access. Store the shotgun in a dry environment to prevent rust and corrosion.
Customization Options
One of the great things about the Remington 870 is its extensive aftermarket support. There are countless accessories and upgrades available to customize your shotgun to your specific needs and preferences. Some popular customization options include:
Stocks and Forends
Upgrading the stock and forend can improve the ergonomics and handling of your Remington 870. Options include:
- Adjustable Stocks: Allowing you to adjust the length of pull and comb height for a custom fit.
- Pistol Grip Stocks: Providing a more secure and ergonomic grip.
- Tactical Forends: Featuring Picatinny rails for mounting accessories.
Sights and Optics
Upgrading the sights can improve your accuracy and target acquisition speed. Options include:
- Ghost Ring Sights: Providing a fast and intuitive sight picture.
- Red Dot Sights: For quick target acquisition in close-range scenarios.
- Scopes: For increased accuracy at longer ranges.
Lights and Lasers
Adding a light or laser can improve your ability to identify threats in low-light conditions. Options include:
- Weapon-Mounted Lights: Providing a bright and focused beam of light.
- Laser Sights: For quick target acquisition and intimidation.
Shell Holders
Adding a shell holder can provide quick access to extra ammunition. Options include:
- Side-Saddle Shell Holders: Attaching to the receiver for easy access to shells.
- Stock-Mounted Shell Holders: Attaching to the stock for additional shell capacity.
The Remington 870 Woodland Camo: A Lasting Legacy
The Remington 870 Woodland Camo is more than just a shotgun; it’s a piece of American history. Its reliability, versatility, and widespread availability have made it a favorite among hunters, law enforcement agencies, and recreational shooters for over seven decades. Whether you’re pursuing game in the woods, protecting your home, or simply enjoying a day at the range, the Remington 870 Woodland Camo is a trusted and dependable choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Remington 870 Woodland Camo is a well-rounded and highly functional shotgun that combines the legendary reliability of the Remington 870 platform with the practical benefits of a camouflage finish. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from hunting and recreational shooting to home defense and tactical use. With proper maintenance and care, the Remington 870 Woodland Camo will provide years of reliable service and enjoyment. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and performance, making it a worthwhile investment for any firearm enthusiast.
