Let’s Talk About Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock offers a practical and durable alternative to the factory stock on one of the most popular shotguns ever made. The Remington 870 has been a staple in homes, law enforcement agencies, and hunting camps for decades, and upgrading its stock can significantly enhance its performance and ergonomics. This Choate stock aims to provide that enhancement with its glass-filled polymer construction and a design focused on functionality.
My relationship with the Remington 870 began years ago, and like many, the original wood stock left something to be desired in terms of durability and recoil absorption. I needed a stock that could withstand the rigors of heavy use and provide a more comfortable shooting experience, particularly when using heavier loads for hunting or tactical training. The promise of a virtually indestructible polymer stock from a reputable manufacturer like Choate Tool was immediately appealing.
Upon unboxing, the Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock felt solid and well-made. The black polymer has a slightly textured surface, providing a good grip even in wet conditions. The weight felt balanced, and the overall impression was that of a no-nonsense, functional upgrade.
Compared to other aftermarket stocks, such as those from Magpul or Mesa Tactical, the Choate stock takes a more traditional approach, foregoing adjustable features and focusing on a streamlined design. I chose the Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock for its simplicity and ruggedness, preferring a fixed stock that I knew would hold up under any conditions. My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism about how it would compare to the feel of a traditional wood stock, but I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock was at my local shooting range, where I spent a few hours running various types of ammunition through my Remington 870. The weather was typical for late spring: a bit damp with occasional light rain. I wanted to see how the stock handled in less-than-ideal conditions.
The Choate stock proved to be a significant improvement over the factory wood stock in terms of recoil absorption. Even with heavy 12-gauge loads, the felt recoil was noticeably reduced, making it easier to stay on target for follow-up shots. The textured polymer provided a secure grip, even with wet hands, and the stock remained comfortable throughout the shooting session. The length of pull felt natural, and I didn’t need any time to adjust to the new ergonomics.
One minor issue I noticed was that the stock felt slightly less “warm” to the touch compared to wood, especially in the cool, damp weather. However, this was a small price to pay for the improved durability and recoil reduction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. I’ve used it in various conditions, from hot and dusty range days to cold and wet hunting trips, and it has consistently performed flawlessly. There are no signs of cracking, warping, or any other type of wear and tear.
Maintaining the Choate stock is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean. The polymer material is resistant to most solvents and chemicals, so there’s no need to worry about damaging the finish. Compared to my previous experiences with wood stocks, which required regular oiling and were prone to scratching and denting, the Choate stock is a breeze to maintain. In my experience, it significantly outperforms a traditional wood stock in terms of durability and ease of care.
Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock
Specifications
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock is designed specifically for the Remington Model 870 shotgun. It’s constructed from a glass-filled polymer, providing exceptional strength and resistance to impact, chemicals, and weather. The stock is black in color and has a length of 13 1/2 inches. This length of pull is suitable for most shooters, providing a comfortable and stable shooting platform.
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock is manufactured in the USA by Choate Tool. Each package contains one stock. The glass-filled polymer material ensures durability and longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. The length of pull affects how comfortably and effectively you can shoulder and fire the shotgun; 13 1/2 inches is a generally accepted comfortable standard.
Performance & Functionality
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock significantly enhances the performance and functionality of the Remington 870. The improved ergonomics provide a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience. The reduced recoil makes it easier to stay on target and deliver accurate follow-up shots.
While it doesn’t have the adjustability of some modern stocks, its simplicity is a strength. It offers a solid, reliable platform without any unnecessary complexity. The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock meets and even exceeds expectations for a durable, functional, and comfortable stock.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock is excellent. The glass-filled polymer feels robust and durable. The weight is well-balanced, adding minimal weight to the shotgun while maintaining a comfortable feel in the hand.
The design is simple and functional, without any unnecessary frills. The slightly textured surface provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. There is no learning curve involved. Installing and using the stock is straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock is built to last. Its glass-filled polymer construction is highly resistant to impact, chemicals, and weather. With minimal maintenance, this stock should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth. Repairs are unlikely to be needed, but the simple design allows for easy replacement of parts if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock doesn’t come with any included accessories, but it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket recoil pads. You can easily replace the factory recoil pad with a more comfortable or better-performing option to further reduce felt recoil. The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock is also compatible with various sling mounts and attachment points, allowing you to customize your shotgun to suit your specific needs. While it doesn’t offer the extensive customization options of some tactical stocks, it provides a solid foundation for building a practical and reliable shotgun.
Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The glass-filled polymer construction ensures that this stock can withstand heavy use and harsh conditions.
- Improved Recoil Absorption: The stock provides a noticeable reduction in felt recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot, especially with heavy loads.
- Enhanced Grip: The textured surface provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- Easy to Install & Maintain: Installation is simple and straightforward, and maintenance requires only a quick wipe down.
- Affordable Upgrade: The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock offers a significant performance upgrade at a reasonable price.
Cons
- Lacks Adjustability: Unlike some modern stocks, the Choate stock does not offer adjustable length of pull or cheek weld.
- Polymer Feel: Some users may prefer the feel of a traditional wood stock over the polymer material.
Who Should Buy Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock?
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and home defenders who value durability, reliability, and simplicity. It is also a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 870 without breaking the bank. This product can stand up to a beating.
Those who prefer a more customizable stock with adjustable features, or those who prioritize the aesthetic appeal of wood, might want to skip this product. A high-quality aftermarket recoil pad is a must-have accessory for maximizing recoil reduction and shooting comfort.
Conclusion on Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock
The Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock is a no-nonsense, highly functional upgrade for the Remington 870 shotgun. Its glass-filled polymer construction provides exceptional durability and weather resistance, while its ergonomic design enhances shooting comfort and control. At a price of $68.21, the Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock offers excellent value for the money.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable way to improve the performance of their Remington 870. If you want your shotgun to last, buy the Choate Tool Remington 870 Conventional Stock and get out to the range!