Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel Review

Let’s Dive into Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel

The Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel offers a specialized solution for deer hunters seeking enhanced accuracy with shotgun slugs. Manufactured by Remington, this barrel transforms the versatile 870 Express into a dedicated deer-hunting platform. Its fully rifled bore is designed to stabilize slugs for tighter groupings at longer ranges, a crucial advantage in challenging hunting scenarios.

My deer hunting spots demand precision at distances beyond smoothbore capabilities; the erratic flight of slugs from a standard barrel was costing me opportunities. I needed a barrel that could consistently deliver accurate shots, even in thick cover. The promise of improved slug accuracy with the Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel was the deciding factor.

Unboxing the barrel, I immediately noticed the substantial feel of the steel and the deep, pronounced rifling. The matte finish was practical, minimizing glare in the field. The barrel appeared robust and well-machined, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of hunting.

I considered a cantilever scope mount barrel from a competitor, but the Remington‘s reputation and the simplicity of mounting aftermarket sights directly to the receiver ultimately swayed me. A fully-rifled slug barrel from Mossberg was also in the running, but the Remington 870 platform’s inherent reliability won out.

My first impression was excitement tempered with anticipation. I was eager to see if the Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel could live up to its accuracy claims in the field. The potential for improved performance outweighed any initial skepticism.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel at my local range, focusing on achieving tight groups at 50 and 100 yards. The weather was typical for late fall – damp and slightly chilly. The primary focus was on dialing in my chosen slug load and familiarizing myself with the new barrel’s characteristics.

In those conditions, the rifled barrel showcased a tangible boost in stability; slugs maintained a much flatter trajectory. Recoil was noticeable, typical of 12-gauge slugs, but manageable. The consistent accuracy, even with intermittent light rain, boosted confidence.

The barrel was simple to swap out with the original, requiring no gunsmithing. The only initial adjustment was finding the optimal slug load; some required slight sight adjustments to group effectively. No major issues arose during the first range session, just a greater appreciation for the rifled design’s impact.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a full deer season, the Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel has proven its worth. There is no sign of significant wear, even after approximately 50 rounds. The finish remains intact and the rifling is still sharp.

The barrel is built to withstand the elements and consistent use. Cleaning is straightforward, utilizing standard shotgun cleaning supplies. Regular maintenance ensures consistent performance season after season.

Compared to my experiences with smoothbore barrels, the Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel dramatically improves accuracy and effective range. Previously, 75-yard shots were a gamble. Now, I’m confident making ethical shots at 100 yards, within the bounds of my self-imposed accuracy standards.

Breaking Down the Features of Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel

Specifications

The Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel is designed specifically for deer hunting. The key specifications include a 12-gauge chambering and a 23-inch barrel length. A fully rifled bore is the defining feature, imparting spin to slugs for enhanced stability and accuracy.

The 23-inch barrel provides a good balance of maneuverability in dense cover and adequate velocity for effective slug performance. The fully rifled bore, with its carefully engineered grooves, is critical for stabilizing slugs and achieving tight groupings. The chamber is cut for 12-gauge shells, making it compatible with a wide array of slug loads.

Performance & Functionality

The Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel delivers a significant improvement in slug accuracy. Groups that were once scattered become noticeably tighter. The extended range and improved precision make for cleaner, more ethical hunts.

The barrel excels in its intended role: providing consistent slug performance for deer hunting. The only minor downside is the increased recoil due to the energy required to spin the slug, though this is a characteristic of all rifled slug barrels. Overall, the Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel easily surpasses expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The barrel’s construction is robust, employing high-quality steel and a durable matte finish. The weight is appropriate for a barrel of its length and purpose, contributing to overall firearm stability. While it adds some weight to the Remington 870, the added accuracy is well worth it.

The barrel integrates seamlessly with the Remington 870 platform, requiring no special tools or modifications for installation. The barrel’s design ensures reliable cycling and consistent performance. The design is utilitarian, focusing on functionality over aesthetics.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its solid steel construction and protective finish, the Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel is built to last. With proper care, it should provide many seasons of reliable service. The deep rifling grooves should withstand consistent use without significant wear.

Cleaning is straightforward. Standard shotgun cleaning procedures and readily available solvents work well. Regular cleaning and lubrication will maintain accuracy and prevent corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Remington 870 accessories. Optics can be mounted using standard receiver mounts. Aftermarket sights, like fiber-optic models, are commonly used to enhance aiming.

The barrel accepts chokes designed for rifled barrels, allowing for further customization of slug performance. A wide range of aftermarket stocks and recoil pads can be added to mitigate recoil. The Remington 870’s widespread popularity ensures a vast array of compatible accessories.

Pros and Cons of Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel

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Who Should Buy Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel?

Perfect for: Hunters seeking to improve their accuracy and extend their effective range when deer hunting with slugs. This is especially beneficial for hunters in areas where rifles are not permitted, or where shotgun-only zones exist.

Who should skip this product? Those who primarily use their Remington 870 for bird hunting or home defense purposes. A standard smoothbore barrel would be more suitable for those applications.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality optic or set of fiber-optic sights to maximize the barrel’s accuracy potential. A comfortable recoil pad is also recommended to mitigate the increased recoil of slug loads.

Conclusion on Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel

The Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel is a worthwhile investment for serious deer hunters using slugs. It provides a significant boost in accuracy and effective range, transforming the versatile Remington 870 into a dedicated deer-hunting machine. The durable construction and simple installation add to its appeal.

The price is certainly justified, especially when considering the cost of a complete slug gun. The enhanced ethical hunting and improved success rates make it a worthwhile upgrade. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any deer hunter looking to maximize their shotgun’s potential.

Consider equipping your Remington 870 with this barrel and experience the difference for yourself! Take your deer hunting to the next level with the Remington RXBL 870 EXP Deer 12Ga 23in Fully Rifled CL Barrel.