The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns Made a Bold First Impression
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns arrived, and my initial reaction was simple: clean. After years of wrestling with clunky, oversized optics mounts, the sleek design of this base promised a streamlined approach to red dot integration on one of America’s most iconic shotguns. I was hoping this Talley product would finally solve a problem I’d encountered too many times: finding a low-profile, reliable mounting solution for micro red dots on my trusty Remington 870.
My own 870, a veteran of countless hunting trips and range sessions, had always been a workhorse, but adding a modern optic felt like bolting a spoiler onto a classic pickup. I’d tried a few other bases, including a generic rail that sat too high, and a saddle mount that added unnecessary bulk around the receiver. I chose the Talley Micro Picatinny Base because of Talley’s reputation for precision and the base’s promise of a minimized footprint. Its all-aluminum construction and MIL-STD-1913 spec adherence gave me confidence in its durability and compatibility.
Unboxing the Talley Micro Picatinny Base, I was immediately impressed by its lightweight feel and the precision of the machining. The hard-coat anodizing gave it a rugged, matte finish, while the included mounting hardware—screws, a tension screw, and a wrench—showed attention to detail. The base itself is surprisingly small, designed to utilize only the two most rearward mounting holes on the 870’s receiver, ensuring optimal red dot placement without extending unnecessarily forward. I was excited to see if this compact base could deliver on its promise of a clean, functional optics solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns to the Test
First Use Experience
The first range trip with the Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns installed was eye-opening. I mounted a Trijicon RMR to the base, and the low profile was immediately noticeable. Finally, the red dot felt like a natural extension of the shotgun, rather than an afterthought.
I tested it during a skeet shooting session on a somewhat damp afternoon. The hard-coat anodized finish provided a surprisingly solid grip, even with slightly wet hands. The low-profile design made shouldering the shotgun feel instinctive, as if the red dot had always been there. There were no issues with the base shifting or loosening after multiple rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Talley Micro Picatinny Base continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through my 870 with the base installed, including buckshot and slugs, and it hasn’t budged. There are no signs of wear and tear on the base itself, and the anodized finish still looks new.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep it clean. Compared to my previous experiences with bulkier, less refined mounts, the Talley Micro Picatinny Base is a revelation. It provides a stable, low-profile platform for my red dot, without adding unnecessary weight or complexity to my shotgun. This base has not disappointed me, and it has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns
Specifications
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance.
- Material: Machined from lightweight 7000 series Aluminum Alloy, providing a strong and rigid platform without adding unnecessary weight. This is crucial for maintaining the balance and maneuverability of the shotgun.
- Finish: Features a hard-coat anodizing to 65 Rockwell, offering exceptional resistance to scratches, corrosion, and wear. The durable finish ensures the base can withstand harsh conditions and repeated use.
- Design: Designed in accordance with the MIL-STD-1913 Pic Rail specifications, guaranteeing compatibility with a wide range of optics. This standardization provides peace of mind when choosing a red dot sight.
- Mounting: Utilizes only the two most rearward mounting holes on the Remington 870 receiver. This optimizes red dot sight placement while minimizing the overall footprint of the base.
- Hardware: Includes all necessary mounting hardware, including screws, a tension screw, and a wrench. Having all the required tools makes installation straightforward and hassle-free.
Performance & Functionality
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base excels in its core function: providing a stable and low-profile mounting platform for micro red dot sights. Its rigid construction ensures the optic remains securely zeroed, even under heavy recoil. The minimized size is a significant advantage, preventing the base from interfering with the shotgun’s handling or snagging on gear.
The only minor weakness I can identify is that the base only uses the rear two mounting holes. While this design contributes to the low profile, some users might prefer a base that utilizes more mounting points for added security. Overall, the Talley Micro Picatinny Base meets and exceeds expectations, delivering a superior optics mounting solution for the Remington 870.
Design & Ergonomics
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base’s design is a masterclass in minimalism. The all-aluminum construction keeps the weight down, while the hard-coat anodized finish provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface. The low profile ensures the red dot sits close to the bore axis, improving accuracy and reducing parallax.
The base is incredibly user-friendly; installation is a breeze thanks to the included hardware and clear instructions. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base is built to last. The 7000 series aluminum alloy and hard-coat anodized finish ensure it can withstand years of use and abuse.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning involves wiping down the base with a lightly oiled cloth to remove dirt and grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base comes with the necessary mounting screws, a tension screw, and a wrench. Its primary function is to provide a mounting platform for mini reflex sights and micro red dot sights.
As it adheres to the MIL-STD-1913 Pic Rail specifications, it’s compatible with most red dots that use this standard. You are able to use other brands with this product.
Pros and Cons of Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns
Pros
- Lightweight and durable 7000 series aluminum alloy construction.
- Low-profile design minimizes bulk and maximizes handling.
- Easy installation with included hardware.
- Hard-coat anodized finish for exceptional wear resistance.
- Compatible with a wide range of micro red dot sights.
Cons
- Only utilizes the rear two mounting holes, which might not appeal to all users.
- N/A
Who Should Buy Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns?
The Talley Micro Picatinny Base For Remington 870 Shotguns is perfect for hunters, home defenders, and tactical shooters who want to add a micro red dot sight to their Remington 870 without adding unnecessary bulk or weight. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate high-quality, American-made products.
Those seeking a base that utilizes all four mounting holes on the receiver might prefer a different option.
A must-have modification is a quality micro red dot sight such as a Trijicon RMR or Holosun.
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 provides a lightweight, durable, and low-profile mounting solution for micro red dot sights, enhancing the functionality and versatility of the Remington 870 shotgun. The value proposition is excellent, especially considering the quality of materials and the precision of the machining.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Talley Micro Picatinny Base to anyone looking to modernize their Remington 870 with a red dot sight. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference a quality mounting solution can make!
