Top 5 Remington 870 Upgrades: Essential Mods Revealed

Imagine this: You’ve got a trusty Remington 870 shotgun. It’s a classic, a workhorse. But you know it could be even better. Maybe you want it to be faster for that clay pigeon shoot, or tougher for a hunting trip, or just look plain awesome. The problem is, when you start looking for upgrades, it’s like stepping into a maze. There are so many choices for stocks, sights, barrels, and more! It can get confusing, and you might wonder if you’re picking the right parts or wasting your money.

That’s where this guide comes in! We’re going to cut through the confusion and show you exactly what makes a great upgrade for your Remington 870. By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the best ways to make your shotgun fit you perfectly and perform like a dream. We’ll cover the most popular and effective upgrades that will make a real difference. Get ready to discover how to transform your 870 from good to absolutely fantastic!

Our Top 5 Remington 870 Upgrades Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Remington 870 Upgrades Detailed Reviews

1. Streamlight 69601 TL-Racker 1000 Lumen Forend Light for Remington Selected 870 Models with CR123A Lithium Batteries

Streamlight 69601 TL-Racker 1000 Lumen Forend Light for Remington Selected 870 Models with CR123A Lithium Batteries, Black

Rating: 9.2/10

The Streamlight 69601 TL-Racker 1000 Lumen Forend Light is a powerful upgrade for your Remington 870 or Tac 14 shotgun. It replaces your original forend, giving you a bright light right where you need it. This light is designed for easy handling and quick access to its controls, making it a great tool for various situations.

What We Like:

  • It delivers a super bright 1000 lumens, lighting up targets up to 283 meters away.
  • The ergonomic design feels good in your hand and makes it easy to reach the switch.
  • The switch works for both left and right-handed shooters and offers momentary or constant on.
  • It’s a straightforward replacement for your shotgun’s original forend.
  • It has a strong light output with 20,000 candelas.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This light only fits specific Remington 870 and Tac 14 models. It won’t work with other Remington shotguns or Mossberg FLEX models.
  • The battery life is 1.5 hours on high mode, which might be short for some extended uses.

This light is a solid choice for Remington 870 owners who want to add reliable illumination. It’s built for performance and ease of use, making your shotgun more versatile.

2. Trigger Pin Set Compatible with Remington 870

Trigger Pin Set Compatible with Remington 870, 1100, 1187 Precision Steel Upgrade (2-Pack)

Rating: 8.6/10

Upgrade your Remington shotgun with this precision steel trigger pin set. This 2-pack is designed to fit Remington 870, 1100, and 1187 models. These pins offer a direct replacement for your existing ones, aiming to improve the feel and function of your trigger group. They are made from durable steel, which should offer a longer lifespan compared to standard parts.

What We Like:

  • Strong steel construction promises durability.
  • Designed for popular Remington shotgun models.
  • A simple upgrade that can enhance trigger feel.
  • Comes as a convenient 2-pack.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The “N/A” feature list means we don’t have specific details on any unique selling points beyond the material and compatibility.
  • Installation difficulty can vary; some users might find it tricky without prior experience.

This trigger pin set is a solid choice for Remington shotgun owners looking for a reliable replacement part. It’s a straightforward upgrade that can make a noticeable difference in your firearm’s performance.

3. Hogue Stock Remington 870 Overrubber Shotgun Stock

Hogue Stock Remington 870 Overrubber Shotgun Stock

Rating: 9.2/10

Upgrade your Remington 870 OverRubber shotgun with the Hogue Stock Remington 870 Overrubber Shotgun Stock. This stock offers a comfortable and secure grip, making your shooting experience better. It’s designed specifically for the Remington 870 OverRubber, ensuring a perfect fit. You’ll notice the difference right away.

What We Like:

  • The OverRubber material feels great in your hands. It helps absorb recoil, so you feel less kick when you shoot.
  • It’s made by Hogue, a trusted name in firearm accessories. This means it’s built to last and perform well.
  • The scrimshaw design adds a cool, unique look to your shotgun. It’s not just functional; it looks good too.
  • Installing the stock is straightforward. You won’t need special tools or a lot of experience.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The scrimshaw pattern might not be to everyone’s taste. Some shooters prefer a more plain look.
  • While the OverRubber is comfortable, it might be a bit thicker than some original stocks. This could slightly change the feel for very specific shooting styles.

For Remington 870 OverRubber owners looking for an upgrade, this Hogue stock is a solid choice. It combines comfort, durability, and a touch of personal style.

4. XS Sights Big Dot Shotgun Bead

XS Sights Big Dot Shotgun Bead, Remington Pedestal Shotguns, Remington 870, Tritium Sights, High-Visibility in Low-Light Conditions, Fast Target Acquisition, Tritium Yellow Dot

Rating: 8.7/10

The XS Sights Big Dot Shotgun Bead is a fantastic upgrade for your Remington 870 shotgun. It’s designed to make aiming easier, especially when the light is low. This sight uses a bright yellow tritium dot that glows in the dark. This helps you see your target quickly and accurately. It fits Remington 870 shotguns that have a factory bead between .125″ and .140″ in diameter. You can even use certain replacement beads, like Brownells #6 or #26.

What We Like:

  • Bright yellow tritium dot is easy to see in low light.
  • Helps you aim faster and more accurately.
  • Simple to install yourself with clear instructions.
  • Made from strong steel right here in the USA.
  • Glows even without needing batteries, thanks to its special technology.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Only fits specific Remington 870 models and bead sizes.
  • Tritium brightness can fade over many years.

This sight is a solid choice for anyone wanting better aiming in dim conditions. It’s made tough and is easy to put on your gun.

5. Hogue OverMolded Rubber Shotgun Stock & Forend Kit For Remington 870 (12 Gauge)

Hogue OverMolded Rubber Shotgun Stock & Forend Kit For Remington 870 (12 Gauge), Black - 08712

Rating: 9.5/10

Upgrade your Remington 870 12-gauge shotgun with the Hogue OverMolded Rubber Shotgun Stock & Forend Kit. This kit offers a significant improvement in comfort and control for any shooter.

What We Like:

  • Precision Fit: It fits your Remington 870 12-gauge shotgun perfectly. Installation is secure and smooth.
  • OverMolded Rubber Grip: The soft, grippy rubber feels great. It helps you hold the shotgun steady and makes shooting more comfortable by reducing the kick.
  • Rugged & Weather-Resistant: Made from strong plastic, it can handle tough weather. It won’t get damaged by water or cleaning liquids.
  • Ergonomic Design: The kit is shaped to feel good in your hands. This makes it easier to aim and shoot accurately. It also helps you shoot longer without getting tired.
  • Complete Kit: You get both the stock and the forend. This means you can change the whole feel of your shotgun at once.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While the rubber grip is excellent, some shooters might prefer a slightly firmer feel.
  • The black color is classic, but a few more color options could appeal to a wider range of personal tastes.

This Hogue kit transforms your Remington 870, making it more comfortable and easier to handle. It’s a smart upgrade for anyone who wants a better shooting experience.

Upgrade Your Remington 870: The Ultimate Buying Guide

The Remington 870 is a classic shotgun that many people love. It’s tough and reliable. You can make it even better with upgrades. This guide helps you choose the right parts to make your 870 perfect for you.

Key Features to Look For in Remington 870 Upgrades

When you shop for upgrades, think about what you want your shotgun to do.

  • Ergonomics: This means how the gun feels in your hands. Upgrades like better stocks and forends can make it more comfortable to hold and shoot. A comfortable grip helps you shoot straighter.
  • Functionality: Some parts help the gun work better. A new magazine extension can hold more shells. A different safety or bolt release can make operating the gun faster.
  • Durability: You want parts that last. Stronger materials mean your upgrades won’t break easily.
  • Ease of Installation: Some parts are easy to put on yourself. Others might need a gunsmith. Think about your comfort level with tools.

Important Materials for Remington 870 Upgrades

The stuff your upgrades are made of matters a lot.

  • Polymer: This is a strong plastic. It’s light and doesn’t rust. Many stocks, forends, and grip parts use good quality polymer.
  • Aluminum: This metal is strong but light. It’s often used for magazine caps, barrel clamps, and some receiver parts. It resists rust well.
  • Steel: High-quality steel is very strong. It’s used for parts that need to handle a lot of stress, like bolts and some trigger components.
  • Wood: Traditional wood stocks look great. They can be comfortable but are heavier than polymer and can be damaged by water.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all upgrades are made the same.

  • Fit and Finish: Good parts fit perfectly on your shotgun. They look smooth and well-made. Poorly made parts might have rough edges or not line up right. This can cause problems.
  • Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands. Companies that have been making gun parts for a long time usually have good quality. They stand behind their products.
  • Reviews: Read what other people say about a part. Honest reviews tell you if a part works well or has issues.
  • Price: Sometimes, very cheap parts are made with lower-quality materials. They might not last as long. Higher prices don’t always mean better, but extremely low prices can be a warning sign.

User Experience and Use Cases

Who are you and what do you do with your Remington 870?

  • Home Defense: If your 870 is for protecting your home, you might want a shorter barrel, a comfortable pistol grip stock for easier handling in tight spaces, and a magazine extension to hold more shells. A good light mounted on the shotgun is also very helpful.
  • Hunting: For hunting, you might want a camouflage stock and forend to blend in with nature. A sling is important for carrying the gun comfortably through the woods. Some hunters add a specialty barrel for specific game.
  • Sport Shooting/Competition: If you shoot at targets or compete, you might look for upgrades that make shooting faster and smoother. This could include an improved trigger, a larger bolt handle, or a different sights.

Upgrading your Remington 870 is a fun way to make it your own. By thinking about these features, materials, quality factors, and how you’ll use your shotgun, you can find the perfect parts.


Remington 870 Upgrades: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the most popular Remington 870 upgrades?

A: Some of the most popular upgrades include new stocks and forends for better grip, magazine extensions to hold more shells, and improved sights for easier aiming.

Q: Can I install Remington 870 upgrades myself?

A: Many upgrades are designed for easy DIY installation. However, some parts, like trigger assemblies, might be best left to a professional gunsmith.

Q: What is the best material for a Remington 870 stock?

A: For durability and light weight, polymer stocks are excellent. Traditionalists might prefer wood for its classic look and feel.

Q: Will adding a magazine extension make my shotgun illegal?

A: In most places, magazine extensions are legal. However, it’s important to check your local and state laws regarding firearm modifications.

Q: How do I choose the right sights for my Remington 870?

A: For general use, ghost ring sights or fiber optic sights are popular. If you plan to hunt, consider specialized hunting sights.

Q: What is an improved forend, and why would I want one?

A: An improved forend is the part you hold onto when you pump the shotgun. Upgraded forends often have a better grip texture or rails to attach accessories like lights.

Q: Are expensive Remington 870 upgrades always better?

A: Not always. While quality often comes with a price, focus on reputable brands and read reviews to find good value.

Q: What is a “ghost ring sight”?

A: A ghost ring sight is a type of rear sight with a large aperture (hole). It helps you aim quickly and easily.

Q: Can I change the color of my Remington 870 with upgrades?

A: Yes, many stocks, forends, and other parts come in different colors, including camouflage patterns, black, and even some brighter options.

Q: Where can I buy Remington 870 upgrades?

A: You can find Remington 870 upgrades at most sporting goods stores, online firearm accessory retailers, and directly from manufacturers.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.