The Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer Made a Bold First Impression
The Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer promises a modern, ergonomic upgrade for the ubiquitous Remington 870 shotgun. I’ve spent over a decade working with shotguns in various roles, from tactical applications to hunting, and I’ve always been on the lookout for improvements in handling and control. This grip, with its promise of a modern shooting stance and compatibility with AR-15 buffer tubes, certainly piqued my interest.
I was looking to improve the maneuverability of my trusty 870 for home defense scenarios. The factory stock, while functional, felt cumbersome in tight spaces. I wanted something that would allow for quicker target acquisition and easier manipulation.
Upon unboxing, the grip felt surprisingly solid for its price. The polymer had a noticeable texture, and the overall design seemed well thought out. It’s lightweight and certainly felt more aggressive than the original wooden stock it was about to replace. I had been considering a Hogue Tamer pistol grip, and a Magpul SGA stock, but the Aim Sports offering won out due to its simplicity and affordability. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; could this budget-friendly grip actually deliver?
Real-World Testing: Putting **Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was an outdoor range, focusing on close-quarters drills. I wanted to simulate a home defense scenario as closely as possible. The weather was dry and mild, perfect for getting a feel for the grip.
The immediate difference was the drastically altered shooting stance. The pistol grip forced me into a more bladed, squared-off position, which felt more natural for rapid target transitions. Recoil management was noticeably different. The squared stance allowed me to absorb the impact more effectively. However, the grip angle took some getting used to. After about 50 rounds of birdshot and a few slugs, my wrist felt slightly fatigued, a surprise since I’m accustomed to heavier loads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and a few simulated home defense drills, the grip has held up surprisingly well. There are no visible cracks or signs of stress in the polymer. The texture has started to smooth out slightly in the areas where my hand makes the most contact.
Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any grime or powder residue. The grip still feels secure and shows no signs of loosening on the receiver. I did notice that after several hundred rounds, the recoil seemed a little harsher than with the original stock. This could be due to the more direct transfer of energy to the wrist.
Breaking Down the Features of **Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer**
Specifications
The Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer boasts a few key specifications:
- Type: Pistol Grip
- Model: Shotgun
- Finish: Textured
- Material: Polymer
- Compatibility: Remington 870
- AR-15 Buffer Tube Compatibility: Yes
These specifications are important because they directly impact the grip’s functionality and compatibility. The polymer construction keeps the weight down while (theoretically) providing durability. The textured finish is meant to enhance grip, especially in wet or gloved conditions. The AR-15 buffer tube compatibility opens up a world of customization options.
Performance & Functionality
The grip performs its primary function – providing a secure and ergonomic hold on the shotgun – reasonably well. It definitely enhances maneuverability and allows for a more aggressive shooting stance. However, the recoil management, while acceptable, could be better. The angle of the grip, combined with the polymer construction, can lead to increased felt recoil. The grip does what it promises but maybe not to the fullest potential.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for a grip in this price range. The polymer feels sturdy enough to withstand regular use. The grip is relatively lightweight, which contributes to overall maneuverability. The texture provides adequate grip, but could be more aggressive for enhanced control in adverse conditions. The grip’s squared design is comfortable for modern shooting styles but may not appeal to those who prefer a more traditional hold.
Durability & Maintenance
So far, the grip has proven to be reasonably durable. No cracks or signs of significant wear and tear after moderate use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Time will tell if the polymer can withstand years of heavy use and exposure to the elements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The grip itself doesn’t come with any accessories. Its most significant customization option is its compatibility with AR-15 buffer tubes. This allows users to attach various AR-15 style stocks, further tailoring the shotgun to their specific needs. The buffer tube is not included with the grip, so that will add to the overall cost.
Pros and Cons of **Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer**
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Improved maneuverability and faster target acquisition.
- Compatibility with AR-15 buffer tubes for stock customization.
- Relatively easy installation.
- Noticeable texture for enhanced grip.
Cons
- Recoil management could be better; increased felt recoil.
- Polymer construction may not be as durable as more expensive options.
- Grip angle may not be comfortable for all users.
Who Should Buy **Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer**?
The Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking to improve the maneuverability and ergonomics of their Remington 870 for home defense or tactical applications. It’s also a good option for those who want to experiment with AR-15 stock customization without breaking the bank.
This product is not ideal for those who prioritize recoil reduction above all else or demand the highest level of durability. People with larger hands might also find it less comfortable.
A must-have accessory is an AR-15 buffer tube and a compatible stock. A more aggressive textured grip tape might also be beneficial for improved control.
Conclusion on **Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer**
The Aim Sports Shotgun Remington 870 Pistol Grip Black Polymer offers a decent upgrade for the Remington 870, especially considering its low price. It noticeably improves maneuverability and allows for AR-15 stock customization.
While the recoil management could be better and the polymer construction might not be the most durable, the value proposition is strong. For around $17, it’s a worthwhile investment for shooters looking to enhance their shotgun’s handling without emptying their wallets. I would recommend it as a starting point for customizing your Remington 870, with the understanding that you might eventually want to upgrade to a higher-end option. Give it a try and see if it fits your needs!
