First Thoughts on the Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns offers a streamlined solution for mounting optics on one of America’s most iconic firearms. Talley claims to deliver a lightweight, durable, and precisely engineered base, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype, especially considering the incredibly competitive price point of $24.49. As someone who has accessorized countless tactical shotguns, I was keen to test whether this base offers a real advantage over bulkier or more expensive alternatives.
My primary need was to find a low-profile mounting solution for a micro red dot sight on my Remington 870, destined for close-quarters training. I wanted something that wouldn’t add unnecessary weight or bulk to the shotgun, maintaining its maneuverability. The Talley Micro Picatinny Base immediately appealed to me due to its advertised minimized size, tailored for mini reflex sights and micro red dots.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the clean lines and minimalist design of the base. The fully CNC machined 7000 series Aluminum Alloy felt solid in my hands, yet surprisingly light. It’s immediately clear that this isn’t a cheaply made, stamped-out piece of metal; the finish is smooth, and the hard-coat anodizing gives it a professional look that inspires confidence.
Compared to some of the larger, full-length Picatinny rails I’ve used on other shotguns, the Talley Micro Picatinny Base presents a much more compact and focused approach. Many full-length rails add unnecessary weight and can snag on clothing or gear. Other options I considered were saddle-style mounts, but I wanted to avoid anything that would encircle the receiver or potentially interfere with the shotgun’s action. This base, utilizing only the two rearward mounting holes, seemed like the ideal balance of stability and minimalism.
My first impression was positive: the Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns appeared to be a well-engineered, lightweight solution that could significantly enhance the versatility of my shotgun. It looked to be a no-nonsense way to add an optic without compromising the 870’s inherent handling characteristics. I was excited to get it mounted and see how it performed in the real world.
Real-World Testing: Putting Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns at my local outdoor shooting range, focusing on close-quarters drills and target acquisition speed. The installation process was straightforward, using the included mounting screws, tension screw, and wrench. The fit was precise on my Remington 870, and the red dot sight mounted securely to the Picatinny rail.
I ran several drills in varying light conditions, from bright sunlight to shaded areas, to assess the red dot’s performance with the Talley base. The base held zero exceptionally well throughout the testing session. There was no noticeable shift in point of impact, even after repeated firing of various loads, from light target rounds to heavier buckshot.
The ease of use was a definite plus. The low-profile design of the Talley Micro Picatinny Base allowed for a natural cheek weld and comfortable shooting position. I did not experience any issues with snagging or interference with the shotgun’s controls. After my initial shots, I did need to adjust the tension screw to prevent any movement, but after that the mount remained rock solid.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns has proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve subjected it to a variety of conditions, including rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump against barricades during training. The hard-coat anodizing to 65 Rockwell has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of corrosion or significant wear, even in areas that experience constant contact with other gear.
Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the base with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session to remove any residue or debris. The aluminum alloy construction is resistant to rust and corrosion, which simplifies the cleaning process. I have checked and re-tightened the screws periodically, but they’ve remained secure.
Compared to some of the bulkier steel bases I’ve used in the past, the Talley Micro Picatinny Base offers a significant advantage in terms of weight and handling. My previous experiences with heavier mounts often resulted in increased fatigue during extended training sessions. This base’s lightweight design helps to maintain the 870’s balance and maneuverability, making it a pleasure to shoot. It has definitely outperformed my expectations in terms of comfort and practicality.
Breaking Down the Features of Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns
Specifications
- Material: 7000 series Aluminum Alloy
- Machining: Fully CNC Machined
- Finish: Hard-coat anodizing to 65 Rockwell
- Rail Standard: MIL-STD-1913 Pic Rail specifications
- Compatibility: Remington 870 shotguns
- Mounting: Uses two most rearward mounting holes
- Design: Minimized size for Mini Reflex Sights and Micro Red Dot sights
- Included: Mounting screws, tension screw, and wrench
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The 7000 series Aluminum Alloy provides an excellent balance of strength and weight. The fully CNC machined construction ensures precise dimensions and a secure fit. The hard-coat anodizing enhances durability and corrosion resistance. Adhering to the MIL-STD-1913 Pic Rail specifications ensures compatibility with a wide range of optics.
Performance & Functionality
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function is to provide a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics, and it excels in this area. The base holds zero consistently, even under recoil from heavy loads. It’s easy to install and provides a low-profile mounting solution that doesn’t interfere with the shotgun’s handling characteristics.
A key strength is its simplicity. The minimalist design eliminates unnecessary bulk and weight, allowing the shotgun to remain nimble and easy to maneuver. The only minor weakness I could identify is the need to occasionally check the tension screw to ensure it remains tight.
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base meets, and even exceeds, expectations for a product in its price range. It delivers the performance and reliability of more expensive mounts, without the added cost or complexity.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The materials used are high-quality. The base feels solid and well-made, without adding significant weight to the shotgun.
The user-friendliness is another key aspect. The installation process is straightforward. Even someone with limited experience can easily mount the base using the included hardware and wrench.
Durability & Maintenance
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns is built to last. The hard-coat anodized aluminum alloy construction is highly resistant to wear, corrosion, and impact damage. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and requires minimal effort. Regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient to keep the base in good condition. Replacement parts, if ever needed, should be readily available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns comes with all the necessary hardware for installation. This includes mounting screws, a tension screw, and a wrench. It is primarily designed for use with mini reflex sights and micro red dot sights.
The base’s MIL-STD-1913 Pic Rail specifications ensure compatibility with a wide range of optics from various brands. This allows users to customize their shotgun to their specific needs and preferences. You can pair the Talley base with almost any red dot that uses a standard Picatinny mount.
Pros and Cons of Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns
Pros
- Lightweight and durable 7000 series Aluminum Alloy construction.
- Precise CNC machining ensures a secure and reliable fit.
- Hard-coat anodizing provides excellent corrosion resistance.
- Low-profile design minimizes bulk and weight.
- Easy to install with included hardware.
Cons
- May require occasional adjustment of the tension screw.
- Limited rail length may not accommodate larger optics or accessories.
Who Should Buy Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns?
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns is perfect for:
- Home defense shotgun owners looking to quickly acquire targets in low-light conditions.
- Tactical shooters who prioritize lightweight, maneuverable firearms.
- Hunters using shotguns for turkey or deer and desiring a red dot optic.
- Anyone wanting a simple, reliable, and affordable way to mount a micro red dot sight on their Remington 870.
Who should skip this product? If you need a full-length rail for multiple accessories or large, heavy optics, this micro base is not for you.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality micro red dot sight. Ensure you also have a reliable method for bore sighting to get you on paper prior to range day.
Conclusion on Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns is an exceptional product that delivers on its promises. It offers a lightweight, durable, and reliable solution for mounting optics on the Remington 870. The price is incredibly justified, making it an outstanding value for the money.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to enhance their shotgun’s capabilities. If you’re in the market for a micro red dot mount for your 870, give the Talley base a serious look – you won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your Remington 870 today and experience the difference a quality optic mount can make!