Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage Review

First Thoughts on the Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage

The Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage is a classic American shotgun, known for its reliability and versatility. But let’s be honest, even the most dependable firearm can benefit from well-chosen accessories. This review focuses on a specific Remington 870 enhancement: a mag cap replacement with a swivel stud, a rear swivel stud, and a pair of GT Locking Swivels.

My old deer hunting setup needed an upgrade. Sling attachment on my Remington 870 Express was always a hassle, involving makeshift solutions that never felt secure. I needed a robust, reliable swivel system, especially after nearly dropping my shotgun while navigating thick brush last season.

The kit arrived in a simple package. At first glance, the parts looked well-machined and the swivel studs seemed sturdy. The black oxide finish appeared durable.

Compared to some of the more elaborate, quick-detach sling systems on the market, this kit is refreshingly straightforward. I considered a full Picatinny rail conversion but preferred the simplicity and lower profile of this stud-based approach. My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism – would these seemingly small parts make a real difference in the field?

Real-World Testing: Putting Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the swivel kit just before a weekend dove hunt. The installation process was simple. The mag cap replacement screwed on easily, and the wood screw rear swivel stud was secure after a few turns.

During the hunt, the difference was immediately noticeable. Carrying the Remington 870 Express with a proper sling, attached via the GT Locking Swivels, was a game-changer. Walking through fields and thickets was significantly easier and safer, freeing up my hands for spotting birds. The secure locking mechanism of the swivels gave me peace of mind, and their smooth rotation provided unrestricted movement.

There were no initial issues. The studs held the sling firmly, and the swivels didn’t bind or creak. The simple upgrade made my Remington 870 Express a more effective and comfortable hunting companion.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a pheasant hunt in harsh, wet conditions, the swivel kit has proven remarkably durable. There are no signs of rust or corrosion on the swivel studs. The GT Locking Swivels continue to operate smoothly and securely.

The finish on the metal parts shows minimal wear, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and the occasional brush with sharp vegetation. I clean and oil the Remington 870 Express regularly, including the swivel attachment points, which takes only a few extra seconds. This kit has significantly outperformed my previous ad-hoc sling solutions, which were prone to loosening and rusting.

Breaking Down the Features of Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage

Specifications

• Caliber: 20 Gauge (This kit is specific to this gauge.)
• Includes: Mag cap replacement with swivel stud, 3/4″ wood screw rear swivel stud, one pair GT Locking Swivels.
• Swivel Size: 1″
• Finish: Black Oxide
• Compatibility Note: Does not fit 3-1/2″ mags.

These specifications are crucial for understanding the kit’s purpose and limitations. The 20 gauge specificity means it’s not a universal solution, but a targeted upgrade for Remington 870 Express owners using that particular gauge. The black oxide finish is a practical choice for corrosion resistance in outdoor environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage swivel kit excels at what it’s designed to do: provide secure and convenient sling attachment points. The GT Locking Swivels are easy to operate, locking firmly into place and preventing accidental detachment. The rear swivel stud is appropriately sized for the Remington 870 Express stock.

The main strength of this kit is its simplicity and reliability. There are no complicated mechanisms or fragile parts. The only potential weakness is the wood screw rear swivel stud. It relies on the integrity of the stock wood, so over-tightening during installation should be avoided. Overall, it meets expectations, providing a cost-effective and functional upgrade.

Design & Ergonomics

The kit is designed with practicality in mind. The swivel studs are low-profile and don’t interfere with the operation of the Remington 870 Express. The GT Locking Swivels are ergonomically shaped and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.

The overall build quality is decent for the price. The metal parts are solid, and the black oxide finish provides a reasonable level of protection against the elements. There’s no learning curve involved; the installation is straightforward, and the swivels are intuitive to use.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the swivel kit should last for years. The main point of potential wear is the GT Locking Swivel mechanism, which should be lubricated periodically. The black oxide finish will eventually show some wear with heavy use, but it can be easily touched up with a suitable gun oil or protectant.

The kit is easy to maintain. Simply wipe down the parts with a clean cloth after each use and apply a light coat of oil to prevent corrosion. Inspect the rear swivel stud periodically to ensure it remains securely fastened to the stock.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular kit is fairly self-contained, providing the essential components for sling attachment. However, it opens the door to a wide range of sling options. Any sling with 1-inch attachment loops will work with the GT Locking Swivels.

There are no specific “customization” options for the kit itself, beyond perhaps replacing the GT Locking Swivels with alternative swivels of the same size and style. The beauty of this setup is its compatibility with a vast array of aftermarket slings from manufacturers such as Magpul, Blue Force Gear, and Vickers Tactical.

Pros and Cons of Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage

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Who Should Buy Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage?

This swivel kit is perfect for hunters who want to add a sling to their Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage. It’s also a great option for recreational shooters who use their shotguns for trap, skeet, or sporting clays. Anyone who wants a simple, reliable, and affordable sling attachment solution will appreciate this kit.

This product might not be ideal for tactical users who require quick-detach sling systems or more specialized mounting options. Those with 3-1/2″ mag Remington 870 Express models will need a different kit.

A must-have accessory is a quality sling that is compatible with 1-inch swivels. Consider a padded sling for added comfort during extended carry.

Conclusion on Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage

The Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage swivel kit is a simple but effective upgrade that can significantly improve the handling and carrying comfort of your shotgun. The price of $31.49 is more than justified, considering the improved functionality and added security it provides. It transforms the Remington 870 Express into a more versatile and user-friendly firearm.

I would definitely recommend this kit to any Remington 870 Express, 20 Guage owner looking to add a sling. Don’t let your shotgun bang around, get this useful addition now. You won’t regret it.

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