Can I Shoot Slugs Through My Remington 870 with a Smooth Bore and Choke Removal?

The Remington 870 is a versatile shotgun known for its reliability and performance. When it comes to shooting slugs, the choice between using a smooth bore or removing the choke is a common question. This article will explore whether it is possible to shoot slugs in a Remington 870 with a smooth bore and the implications of removing or not using chokes.

Choke Tuning and Slug Firing

Chokes in a Remington 870 are designed to improve accuracy and spread patterns of shotshells. They are specifically tuned and threaded, which means they can be delicate and prone to damage when firing slugs. Slugs have a cylinder bore, and while it might be tempting to try shooting slugs through the smooth bore, there are significant risks involved.

Removing Chokes and Firing Slugs

Removing the choke from your Remington 870 is generally not recommended. The fine threads inside the muzzle end of the barrel are crucial for attaching the choke tube. Firing slugs through these threads can cause lead to scrape off, severely fouling them and potentially damaging the barrel. This risk is particularly high with modern shotshells that often have plastic shot cups and wads, which can further foul the threads.

Choke or Not, Shooting Slugs

Despite these risks, some tests have shown that it is possible to shoot slugs through the Remington 870 with a choke still in place. However, it is crucial to understand that even using chokes designed for shotshells (like Foster or Brenneke) may not be ideal. Home-cast slugs or other types of slugs that are not specifically designed for chokes could cause significant damage and lead to poor performance. It's always advisable to consult the manufacturer's guidelines and carefully assess the risks.

Rifled Slugs and Chokes

Rifled slugs are specifically designed to be fired through chokes, and they often perform better when using such chokes. Rifled slugs, whether Foster or other types, are made to swage down and reduce friction. This design makes them suitable for passing through chokes. However, if your gun has a fixed choke, you can shoot slugs except for full, extra full, or super full chokes. The terminology for these chokes can vary, so it's essential to be clear about which ones you are referring to.

Alternatives to Choke Removal

If you want to avoid shooting slugs with a choke, there are two primary options. The first is to purchase a smooth bore, fixed barrel version of the Remington 870. This version comes without any choke system and is simply a straight pipe. The second option is to put a cylinder bore choke in your existing barrel and leave it in place, sacrificing the ability to use other types of chokes.

Important Considerations

In conclusion, while it is possible to shoot slugs through a Remington 870 with a smooth bore and without a choke, it comes with significant risks. To ensure the longevity and performance of your gun, it is best to either maintain the choke system or use a specially designed smooth bore. Always prioritize consulting with the manufacturer and conducting thorough testing before making any decisions.

By taking these considerations into account, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your shooting needs and the safety of your firearm.