The Remington 870. The name alone conjures images of a workhorse, a reliable companion, a trusted friend for hunters, home defenders, and law enforcement officers alike. For decades, the Remington 870 has been a cornerstone of the American sporting landscape. Its rugged construction, smooth action, and widespread availability have cemented its place as one of the most popular shotguns ever made. But what about the left-handed shooters? For those southpaws, navigating the world of right-handed firearms can be a challenge. This guide delves into the world of the Left Handed Remington 870, exploring its mechanics, availability, advantages, and the considerations every left-handed shooter should keep in mind.
Understanding the Remington 870 and Its Mechanics
Understanding the core principles behind a firearm’s design is crucial, especially when dealing with the specifics of a left-handed model. The Remington 870 is a pump-action shotgun, a system known for its robust simplicity. The action works by manually cycling the bolt, extracting the spent shell, and loading a fresh round. The shotgun’s core components – the barrel, receiver, bolt, and magazine tube – work in concert to deliver powerful and reliable performance.
The standard Remington 870, as most shooters know, is designed for right-handed operation. The ejection port, the opening through which spent shell casings are ejected, is located on the right side of the receiver. This positioning works perfectly for right-handed shooters, allowing them to comfortably operate the pump, load shells, and maintain a clear line of sight. The bolt handle is also positioned on the right side, again, optimized for right-handed users.
For a left-handed shooter, using a standard right-handed Remington 870 can present a number of difficulties. Ejecting shells can fly directly across the shooter’s face, a potentially hazardous situation that can disrupt the shooter’s vision and cause discomfort. The bolt handle, on the wrong side, requires awkward manipulation. The overall ergonomics of the firearm aren’t ideally suited for a left-handed stance. It’s understandable that the Left Handed Remington 870 is a sought-after firearm.
Availability of Left Handed Remington 870s
The good news is that the demand for left-handed firearms has led to the creation of dedicated left-handed models. A dedicated Left Handed Remington 870 addresses these issues by mirroring the design, placing the ejection port on the left side of the receiver. This fundamental change dramatically improves the shooting experience for left-handed users.
While in the past, the availability of dedicated left-handed versions might have been limited, today, you can often find these shotguns through various channels. Many firearms retailers stock them, both online and in physical stores. Searching for “Left Handed Remington 870” online will often yield results from reputable dealers.
Exploring used markets can sometimes uncover a gem. Remember to thoroughly inspect any used firearm before purchasing it. Check for signs of wear and tear, ensure the action functions smoothly, and verify its overall condition.
While less ideal, customizing a right-handed model is an option to adapt it for left-handed use. This usually involves aftermarket parts and modifications. This option may also mean voiding the manufacturer’s warranty.
Features of a Left Handed Remington 870
The heart of a Left Handed Remington 870 lies in its reversed design. The ejection port, as mentioned, is the most significant alteration. By placing it on the left side, the spent shells are ejected away from the shooter’s face, eliminating the risk of injury and maximizing the shooter’s concentration.
The bolt itself, the component that extracts and ejects the spent shells, is reversed. The bolt handle, which is typically on the right, is now located on the left side. This allows left-handed shooters to comfortably operate the pump without having to reach across the receiver or change their grip.
Furthermore, the placement of the safety and other controls is carefully considered. Ideally, they are easily accessible to a left-handed shooter. Proper ergonomics are vital for a comfortable and efficient shooting experience. A comfortable stock is just as important. Consider the length of pull to ensure the shotgun fits you correctly.
Advantages of Using a Left Handed Remington 870
The benefits of using a Left Handed Remington 870 extend far beyond mere convenience. They touch upon safety, performance, and overall shooting enjoyment. The most obvious benefit is enhanced safety. By redirecting the ejection of spent shells, the risk of hot brass striking the shooter’s face or eyes is drastically reduced.
This is an experience that is immediately felt. A properly designed Left Handed Remington 870 allows a left-handed shooter to maintain a natural stance and grip, which translates into faster reloading and smoother target acquisition. You are not struggling to accommodate the design.
With a Left Handed Remington 870, the natural mechanics of pumping and cycling the action are more accessible, facilitating faster follow-up shots and reduced shot-to-shot times. It allows for quicker acquisition, meaning the shooter is able to get their sight picture on the target quickly.
The fact that the ejection port is away from the face eliminates a source of distraction. The shooter is free to focus on their target. The risk of interference with the ejection process is minimized. A well-designed Left Handed Remington 870 ensures the spent cases are smoothly ejected, preventing jams and malfunctions that can disrupt a critical shooting situation.
Furthermore, the accuracy is often improved. Because the firearm fits the shooter’s dominant hand, they are able to achieve a more consistent cheek weld, better control of the trigger, and improved overall stability. All of these factors contribute to a higher degree of accuracy.
Considerations When Purchasing a Left Handed Remington 870
Purchasing a Left Handed Remington 870 does come with some considerations. Due to the specialized nature of these firearms, the price may be slightly higher than that of a standard right-handed model. This price difference reflects the lower production volumes and the modifications required to produce a left-handed firearm.
The availability of the Left Handed Remington 870 may be more limited than its right-handed counterparts, resulting in longer lead times and limited model choices. Do your research and explore multiple retailers to increase your chances of finding the perfect model.
When shopping, consider the intended use of the shotgun. Is it for hunting, home defense, or sporting clays? The intended purpose will influence the features that you will want.
Alternatives and Other Considerations
Before choosing a Left Handed Remington 870, explore other options and alternatives. Some manufacturers specialize in left-handed shotguns, potentially offering a wider selection of models and features. Consider your shooting style, experience level, and preferences.
Be aware of the local gun laws and regulations in your area. These laws can vary significantly from state to state, impacting the types of firearms you can own, how you can transport them, and where you can legally use them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Left Handed Remington 870 stands as a testament to the commitment of firearm manufacturers to accommodate all shooters, regardless of their dominant hand. This specialized shotgun is not simply a mirror image of its right-handed counterpart; it’s a carefully engineered tool that enhances safety, improves performance, and fosters a more enjoyable shooting experience for left-handed shooters.
From its left-side ejection port to the placement of its controls and the ergonomics of its stock, the Left Handed Remington 870 provides a personalized solution that puts shooters at ease and builds confidence. By eliminating the inconveniences and potential hazards of using a right-handed shotgun, this specialized firearm unlocks the full potential of southpaw shooters.
When selecting a shotgun, always prioritize comfort, safety, and the right fit. By choosing a dedicated Left Handed Remington 870, you are investing in a firearm that is designed to work with your natural shooting style, allowing you to achieve your shooting goals with confidence and precision. Find the perfect model, familiarize yourself with its mechanics, and take to the range to experience the difference for yourself.
