First Thoughts on the CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD
The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD 12GA 3″ 26″VR W/MOD TUBE MATTE promises to be a significant upgrade for the venerable Remington 870 shotgun. For years, the 870 has been a staple in hunting blinds, on trap ranges, and in home defense scenarios. Carlson’s is a well-respected name in shotgun chokes and barrels, known for quality and performance enhancements. This barrel aims to improve the versatility and performance of the already reliable 870.
I was on the hunt for a barrel upgrade to improve my 870’s handling in the field. My existing barrel was a shorter, dedicated home defense model. I wanted something better suited for upland bird hunting and the occasional round of sporting clays. The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD’s 26-inch length and included Modified choke seemed like the perfect compromise.
Upon unboxing, the CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD made a strong impression. The matte finish is clean and functional, reducing glare in the field. The vent rib (VR) felt solid and well-attached. The overall build quality looked excellent. The barrel felt balanced and well-made, without any noticeable blemishes or imperfections.
Compared to a basic Remington factory barrel, the CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD seemed like a clear upgrade in terms of fit and finish. I also considered a Mossberg 500 barrel and a Hastings rifled slug barrel. I chose the Carlsons barrel for its versatility and reputation for quality. The promise of improved patterns with the included choke tube was also a significant selling point.
Initially, I was excited about the potential for improved performance and versatility. I was hoping this barrel would breathe new life into my old 870. I was eager to see how it performed in the field and at the range. I wasn’t disappointed.
Real-World Testing: Putting CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD was a dove hunt on a friend’s farm. The conditions were typical for early September: hot, humid, and dusty. I used the barrel with the provided Modified choke. The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD performed admirably.
The 26-inch length swung smoothly on passing birds, making it easier to track and connect. I was impressed with the patterns produced by the Modified choke. Doves folded cleanly at reasonable distances. There were no malfunctions and the barrel was easy to manage.
The length did take a little getting used to coming from a shorter barrel. After a few volleys, it felt natural and intuitive. There were no hiccups during the first day using the new barrel. It performed above my expectations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD continues to impress. It has seen action on multiple dove hunts, a pheasant outing, and several rounds of sporting clays. The matte finish has held up well. There are only minor scuffs from normal field use.
The bore remains clean with regular cleaning. The threads for the choke tube show no signs of wear. Maintenance is simple. A quick scrub with a bore brush and a wipe down is all it takes. I have also tested it with different choke tubes. It worked flawlessly.
Compared to my previous barrel, the CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD offers a significant improvement in both handling and pattern density. It swings better. It delivers more consistent and effective shots at longer ranges. It exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD
Specifications
The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD is specifically designed for the Remington 870 12-gauge shotgun. It features a 3-inch chamber, allowing it to handle both 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells. The barrel length is 26 inches, providing a good balance between maneuverability and optimal shot velocity. The included choke tube is a Modified choke, designed for versatile performance across different shooting disciplines.
The vent rib (VR) adds strength and aids in heat dissipation. It also provides a defined sight plane. The matte finish reduces glare, making it ideal for hunting in various lighting conditions. These specifications combine to create a versatile and reliable barrel.
Performance & Functionality
The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD performs its job exceptionally well. Accuracy is excellent with a variety of loads. The Modified choke produces consistent patterns at varying ranges. The 26-inch barrel length provides a smooth swing, making it easier to track moving targets.
One minor weakness is the Modified choke is not ideal for all scenarios. For close-range shooting, an Improved Cylinder choke is preferable. Overall, the performance of the CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD boasts excellent build quality. The materials used are durable and well-finished. The weight is balanced. It does not make the shotgun feel unwieldy.
It is a simple drop-in replacement. There is no gunsmithing required. The vent rib provides a clear sight picture. This aids in quick target acquisition. The ergonomic design enhances the overall shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD is built to last. The steel construction ensures longevity. Proper care and maintenance will extend its life even further.
Cleaning is straightforward. Standard shotgun cleaning tools and solvents are all that is required. The choke tube can be easily removed for cleaning and replacement. This enhances the longevity and reliability of the barrel.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD comes standard with a Modified choke tube. This provides a versatile starting point for different shooting applications.
The Rem Choke system allows for easy interchangeability. It opens up a wide range of customization options. Users can easily swap out chokes for Improved Cylinder, Full, or other specialized chokes. This makes it compatible with accessories from Carlson’s and other brands.
Pros and Cons of CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD
Pros
- Versatile 26-inch length is ideal for both hunting and sporting clays.
- Improved patterns with the included Modified choke enhance accuracy.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Matte finish reduces glare and enhances concealment.
- Easy drop-in installation requires no gunsmithing.
Cons
- Modified choke may not be optimal for all shooting scenarios.
- Limited to 12-gauge Remington 870 shotguns only.
Who Should Buy CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD?
The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD is perfect for hunters seeking a versatile barrel upgrade for their Remington 870. It is also ideal for sporting clay shooters looking for improved performance. Anyone wanting to improve their 870 will benefit from this barrel.
Those who only use their 870 for home defense and require a shorter barrel should skip this product. Shooters with other shotgun models besides the Remington 870 cannot use this barrel.
A choke tube wrench is a must-have accessory. This allows for easy choke changes. A bore snake is also recommended for easy cleaning.
Conclusion on CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD
The CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD is an excellent upgrade for the Remington 870 shotgun. It offers improved versatility, performance, and reliability. The 26-inch length and included Modified choke make it suitable for a wide range of shooting applications.
The value proposition is excellent. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their 870’s capabilities.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 870. If you want better performance, get the CARLSONS BARREL REM 870 FIELD.