Let’s Talk About Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock offers a blend of classic design and modern materials for the iconic Remington 870 shotgun. Choate Tool has long been known for providing practical, durable, and affordable upgrades, and this stock is no exception. Featuring a glass-filled polymer construction and an adjustable length of pull, it aims to improve both the ergonomics and handling of the 870. I’ve spent years customizing and tinkering with 870s, so I was eager to see how this stock stacked up against the competition.
My primary motivation for seeking out this stock was to reduce the overall weight of my 870 without sacrificing durability or comfort. The factory wood stock on my older 870 was beautiful, but it added unnecessary weight for long days in the field. I also wanted to improve the fit of the shotgun to better accommodate different clothing layers while hunting.
Upon unboxing the Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock, I was immediately impressed by its simple yet robust design. The polymer felt solid and well-molded, and the stock was surprisingly lightweight. The included spacers for adjusting the length of pull were a welcome addition, suggesting thoughtful attention to detail.
I considered other options like the Magpul SGA stock and Hogue OverMolded stock. Ultimately, I chose the Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock for its lower price point and more traditional aesthetic. While the Magpul offers extensive adjustability, and the Hogue offers a softer, more tactile grip, the Choate stock seemed like the best value for my needs.
My initial impression was positive – the Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock appeared to be a well-made, practical upgrade that addressed my concerns about weight and fit. I was excited to get it installed and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock was at my local shooting range, patterning different loads of buckshot and slugs. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing. Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes with basic tools.
The stock immediately felt better in my hands than the original wood stock. The reduced weight made the shotgun noticeably easier to handle, and the adjustable length of pull allowed me to achieve a more comfortable and consistent cheek weld. The recoil pad, while basic, effectively dampened the recoil of heavier loads. There were no initial issues with the stock, and I felt confident in its performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking, chipping, or loosening. The finish has proven to be resistant to scratches and abrasions from brush and handling.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve occasionally used a mild solvent to remove stubborn residue from gun oil and powder. Compared to my previous experience with wood stocks, the Choate stock requires significantly less maintenance and is far less susceptible to damage from moisture and temperature changes. It outperforms my expectations in terms of durability and ease of care.
Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Choate Tool
- Gun Model: Remington Model 870
- Gun Type: Shotgun
- Fabric/Material: Glass-filled Polymer
- Color: Black
- Gun Make: Remington
- Quantity: 1
- Length: 13 1/2 in
- Country of Origin: USA
- Weight: 1 lb. 5oz
- Features: Durable fiberglass filled polymer, 1″ rubber recoil pad, quick detach sling swivels
The glass-filled polymer construction is critical for its lightweight and durability. The weight of 1 lb. 5oz significantly reduces the overall weight of the shotgun, making it easier to carry and maneuver. The quick detach sling swivels are a practical addition, allowing for easy attachment and removal of a sling.
Performance & Functionality
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock performs its job admirably. It provides a solid, stable platform for shooting, and the adjustable length of pull ensures a comfortable fit for a wide range of shooters. The stock significantly improves the handling and maneuverability of the 870, especially during extended periods of use.
One strength is its lightweight design, which reduces fatigue during long hunting trips. Another strength is its durability, as the polymer construction can withstand harsh conditions. A minor weakness is the basic recoil pad, which could be improved for better recoil absorption with heavy loads.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a robust and well-molded polymer construction. The stock feels solid and durable, despite its light weight.
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or skills to install. The adjustable length of pull is a significant ergonomic advantage, allowing users to customize the fit of the shotgun. There is virtually no learning curve associated with this stock.
Durability & Maintenance
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock is built to last. The glass-filled polymer is highly resistant to impact, abrasion, and environmental factors.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild solvent. The stock is designed for easy field stripping and maintenance, ensuring long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock comes with two spacers to adjust the length of pull, along with quick detach sling swivel studs. While the stock itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories for the Remington 870.
Users can easily add aftermarket recoil pads, cheek risers, and sling attachments to further customize their shotgun. The compatibility with common 870 accessories makes it a versatile platform for building a personalized shotgun.
Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock
Pros
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue during long hunts.
- Durable glass-filled polymer construction withstands harsh conditions.
- Adjustable length of pull ensures a comfortable fit for various shooters.
- Easy to install with basic tools.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value.
Cons
- Recoil pad is basic and could be improved for better recoil absorption.
- Simple design may not appeal to users seeking a more modern or tactical aesthetic.
Who Should Buy Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock?
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock is perfect for hunters seeking to reduce the weight of their 870 without sacrificing durability. It’s also ideal for recreational shooters who want a more comfortable and adjustable stock. This stock is a great choice for individuals who appreciate a classic, no-frills design.
This product might not be the best choice for users who prioritize extensive adjustability and a modern tactical aesthetic. Individuals looking for a stock with integrated storage or advanced recoil reduction features may also want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory for this stock is a high-quality sling to take full advantage of the quick detach sling swivels. An upgraded recoil pad can also enhance the shooting experience, especially with heavier loads.
Conclusion on Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock is a practical and affordable upgrade that offers significant benefits in terms of weight reduction, durability, and ergonomics. It delivers on its promise of providing a reliable and comfortable shooting experience.
The price of $68.21 is justified by the quality of materials, thoughtful design, and tangible improvements in handling and comfort. I would personally recommend this stock to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 870 without breaking the bank.
If you’re seeking a no-nonsense, durable, and lightweight stock for your 870, the Choate Tool Remington 870 Lightweight Conventional Stock is an excellent choice. Upgrade your 870 today and experience the difference!