Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, Review

What Makes Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, Stand Out?

The Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, is a budget-friendly aftermarket accessory designed to replace the standard stock on a Remington 870 shotgun. Barska aims to provide an ergonomic alternative that enhances control and maneuverability, particularly in close-quarters situations. The integrated 3-shell holder is a notable addition, offering convenient access to extra ammunition.

I was seeking a more compact and aggressive profile for my home defense Remington 870, something that would be easier to wield in tight spaces. I wanted to improve my grip and overall control of the shotgun without breaking the bank. The advertised ease of installation and the shell holder were also key selling points.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the lightweight nature of the grip, a direct result of its reinforced polymer composite construction. The matte black finish gave it a tactical appearance, and the molded contours seemed promising in terms of ergonomics. While the polymer felt somewhat basic, the build quality seemed acceptable for the price point.

I considered alternatives like the Hogue Tamer pistol grip and the Mesa Tactical LEO adapter with an AR-style grip. However, the Barska grip’s lower price and integrated shell holder swayed my decision. I was hoping for a significant improvement in handling compared to the original stock, while maintaining reliable performance.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price was right, and the concept was appealing, but I was eager to see if the Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, could truly deliver on its promises in a practical setting.


Real-World Testing: Putting Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, at my local shooting range, focusing on close-range drills. I wanted to gauge how effectively it facilitated rapid target acquisition and maneuverability. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for evaluating the grip’s performance.

The initial installation process was straightforward, taking only a few minutes with basic tools. The pistol grip configuration did improve the shotgun’s maneuverability in tight simulated scenarios, and I could quickly bring the weapon to bear. However, the recoil felt significantly more pronounced compared to the standard stock.

After the first use, my primary concern was the increased felt recoil. The Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, transferred a substantial amount of energy directly into my wrist. The shell holder also felt somewhat flimsy, and I was wary of its long-term durability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, has shown some signs of wear. The matte finish has begun to show minor scratches, particularly around the mounting area. The shell holder, while still functional, has become looser, and I’m not entirely confident it will withstand heavy use.

Cleaning and maintenance are simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. Compared to my previous experience with a shock-absorbing stock, the Barska grip is a definite step down in terms of comfort and recoil mitigation. While the improved maneuverability is a plus, the increased discomfort limits its overall appeal.

Breaking Down the Features of Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small,

Specifications

  • The Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, is constructed from a reinforced polymer composite. This material offers a balance of lightweight design and reasonable durability.
  • It is finished with a black matte coating for a tactical appearance and to minimize glare. The grip is specifically designed to fit the Remington 870 12-gauge shotgun and similar models.
  • The grip incorporates a 3-shell holder for convenient access to extra ammunition. This feature allows for quick reloading during critical situations.

These specifications influence performance by offering a lightweight and maneuverable platform. However, the polymer construction doesn’t provide significant recoil absorption. The shell holder adds utility, but its durability is questionable.

Performance & Functionality

The Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, significantly enhances the shotgun’s maneuverability, making it easier to handle in confined spaces. It allows for a more aggressive stance and faster target acquisition. However, the increased felt recoil can negatively impact accuracy and comfort, especially during extended shooting sessions.

The main strength is its compact design and enhanced control in close quarters. The weaknesses include the increased recoil and the questionable durability of the shell holder. The grip meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly pistol grip, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is adequate for the price, with the reinforced polymer composite providing reasonable durability. The grip’s lightweight design improves handling, but the ergonomics could be improved to better mitigate recoil. The pistol grip design definitely offers a unique feel.

The grip is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal time to adjust to. The mounting process is straightforward, and the compact size makes it easy to wield.

Durability & Maintenance

The Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, is expected to last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care, but the polymer construction is not as durable as metal alternatives. The shell holder is the most vulnerable component and may require replacement over time.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Repairing the grip is generally not feasible; replacement is usually the best option if it becomes damaged.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, comes with the mounting hardware and an integrated 3-shell holder. There are no further official accessories offered directly by Barska. However, the grip can be combined with other aftermarket accessories for the Remington 870, such as tactical lights or lasers mounted on the forend.

It’s compatible with various slings designed for shotguns. The standard grip design limits customization options directly on the grip itself.

Pros and Cons of Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small,

Pros

  • Improved Maneuverability: Significantly enhances handling in close-quarters situations.
  • Lightweight Design: The polymer construction reduces overall weight, making the shotgun easier to wield.
  • Integrated Shell Holder: Provides convenient access to three extra shotgun shells.
  • Easy Installation: Can be installed quickly with basic tools.
  • Affordable Price: A budget-friendly option for upgrading your Remington 870.

Cons

  • Increased Recoil: Transfers significantly more recoil to the shooter’s wrist.
  • Questionable Shell Holder Durability: The shell holder feels flimsy and may not withstand heavy use.


Who Should Buy Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small,?

Perfect for: Home defense enthusiasts seeking a more compact and maneuverable shotgun configuration on a budget. It is also suitable for those who prioritize ease of handling in tight spaces over recoil mitigation.

Who should skip this product? Shooters sensitive to recoil, those seeking maximum durability, or individuals who prioritize comfort during extended shooting sessions.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A recoil-reducing buffer tube adapter or a quality recoil pad to help mitigate the increased felt recoil.

Conclusion on Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small,

The Barska Remington 870 Pistol Grip, Black, Small, offers a budget-friendly way to enhance the maneuverability of your shotgun. Its compact design and integrated shell holder provide practical advantages in certain situations. However, the increased recoil and the questionable durability of the shell holder are significant drawbacks.

At $39.99, the price is justified for those seeking a basic upgrade. However, be prepared to invest in additional recoil mitigation measures.

I would cautiously recommend it to budget-conscious users who prioritize maneuverability and are willing to accept the increased recoil. If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable option, consider investing in a higher-end pistol grip or a traditional stock with improved recoil absorption. Weigh your priorities, and choose accordingly.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top