The ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black Made a Bold First Impression
The ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black isn’t just another stock system; it’s a statement. It promises enhanced ergonomics, weather resistance, and adjustability for one of the most iconic shotguns ever made. The ProMag name carries a reputation for practical, if not always aesthetically refined, upgrades.
I was looking to modernize my trusty Remington 870. The old wooden stock, while classic, felt a bit cumbersome and lacked adjustability for different shooting scenarios. I needed a stock that could handle varying loads, from light target rounds to heavy defensive buckshot, all while providing a comfortable and secure grip.
Unboxing the ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black, the first thing that struck me was the substantial feel of the polymer. It felt robust, like it could take a beating, a far cry from some of the cheaper, flimsier aftermarket stocks I’ve encountered. The pistol grip felt immediately comfortable in my hand, and the adjustable stock mechanism seemed solid.
Compared to a Hogue OverMolded stock and a Magpul SGA stock, the ProMag fell somewhere in the middle. The Hogue is known for its incredibly grippy texture, while the Magpul excels in modularity. I chose the ProMag for its combination of adjustability and seemingly rugged construction, hoping for a balance of features without breaking the bank.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It looked and felt like it could deliver on its promises, but the real test would be how it performed in the field. I was eager to get it installed and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black was a local shooting range, specifically focusing on patterning different loads at varying distances. I wanted to see how the new stock affected my point of aim and overall recoil management. The weather was thankfully dry, but a bit breezy.
The six-position adjustability proved invaluable almost immediately. I quickly found a length of pull that felt comfortable and allowed for a consistent cheek weld. The ergonomic pistol grip offered a noticeably improved hold compared to the original stock, especially when firing heavier loads.
The only initial hiccup was the cheek riser. It took some fiddling to get it positioned correctly so it wasn’t interfering with the charging handle. After a few adjustments, I found the sweet spot, but it’s something to be aware of during initial setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a dove hunting trip and a tactical shotgun course, the ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of cracking or significant wear, even after being exposed to rain and mud during the hunt. The stock remains securely attached to the receiver.
Cleaning has been a breeze. The polymer sheds dirt and grime easily, and standard gun solvents haven’t caused any discoloration or damage. A quick wipe-down after each range session keeps it looking like new.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket stocks, the ProMag has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and functionality. It has proven to be a reliable and comfortable upgrade to my Remington 870. However, the included recoil pad inserts did not make a huge difference in felt recoil, even with heavy loads.
Breaking Down the Features of ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black
Specifications
The ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black is specifically designed as a replacement stock for 12-gauge Remington 870 shotguns. It utilizes a proprietary, lightweight, carbon-fiber reinforced polymer, making it resistant to weather and common gun solvents. The system features a six-position, collapsible butt-stock for length-of-pull adjustment.
The stock boasts an ergonomic pistol grip with internal storage, a tunable recoil pad with interchangeable soft and firm inserts, and a detachable cheek riser. The specified weight of the entire system is approximately 2 pounds, contributing to a manageable overall shotgun weight. These specs offer improved ergonomics, adjustability, and recoil management, enhancing the shooter’s control and comfort.
Performance & Functionality
The ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black significantly improves the handling and control of the Remington 870. The adjustable stock allows for a customized fit, accommodating different body types and shooting styles. The pistol grip provides a more secure and ergonomic hold.
The cheek riser helps align the eye with optics, if used, improving accuracy. The recoil pad, while not drastically reducing felt recoil, does offer a slight improvement in comfort. Overall, it performs its job admirably, offering a noticeable upgrade over the factory stock.
The main strength lies in its adjustability and improved ergonomics. A minor weakness is the limited impact of the recoil pad inserts. It meets expectations by providing a durable, functional, and customizable stock system for the Remington 870.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is surprisingly good for the price point. The carbon-fiber reinforced polymer feels solid and well-made. The pistol grip is comfortable in the hand, and the stock adjustment mechanism operates smoothly.
The design is functional and modern, although some may find it less aesthetically pleasing than traditional wood stocks. There is a slight learning curve in adjusting the cheek riser, but otherwise, the system is relatively user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black is built to last. The robust polymer construction can withstand significant abuse. Based on my experience, and barring extreme abuse, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a cloth and gun solvent is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly. The polymer is resistant to most common chemicals and solvents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black comes with interchangeable soft and firm recoil pad inserts and a detachable cheek riser. The pistol grip features a storage compartment for small items like batteries or cleaning supplies. The adjustable stock section is compatible with many aftermarket sling attachments designed for AR-15-style buffer tubes.
While the stock itself doesn’t offer direct attachment points for accessories like lights or lasers, these can be added to the shotgun’s forend or barrel. The system is compatible with any Remington 870 that accepts aftermarket stocks.
Pros and Cons of ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black
Pros
- Improved Ergonomics: The pistol grip and adjustable stock provide a more comfortable and controllable shooting experience.
- Enhanced Adjustability: The six-position stock and detachable cheek riser allow for a customized fit, accommodating different body types and shooting styles.
- Durable Construction: The carbon-fiber reinforced polymer is weather-resistant and can withstand significant abuse.
- Affordable Price: The ProMag offers a significant upgrade over the factory stock without breaking the bank.
- Easy Maintenance: The polymer is easy to clean and resistant to common gun solvents.
Cons
- Recoil Pad Inserts Not Highly Effective: The interchangeable recoil pad inserts don’t provide a dramatic reduction in felt recoil.
- Aesthetic Concerns: The modern polymer design may not appeal to those who prefer the classic look of wood stocks.
Who Should Buy ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black?
Perfect for: Home defense enthusiasts, tactical shooters, and hunters who want to modernize their Remington 870 and improve its ergonomics and adjustability. Anyone looking for a durable and affordable stock upgrade will find value in the ProMag.
Who should skip this product? Purists who prefer the traditional look and feel of wood stocks, or those willing to spend significantly more for premium features like enhanced recoil reduction systems.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality sling attachment, and possibly a different recoil pad if recoil reduction is a top priority.
Conclusion on ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black
The ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black offers a solid value proposition for Remington 870 owners seeking an affordable and functional upgrade. Its improved ergonomics, adjustability, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment. The adjustable stock and pistol grip drastically improve the handling and control of the shotgun.
At a price of $93.99, the ProMag provides a significant performance boost without emptying your wallet. It is an excellent choice for shooters prioritizing practicality and modern features.
I would personally recommend the ProMag Remington 870 Shotgun Polymer Black to anyone looking to enhance their Remington 870’s performance and versatility. Upgrade your 870 today and experience the difference!