[McGruff]

I have a technical question for the experts. I have a 1970s era Remington pump shotgun with a full choke barrel. I was thinking about sawing it off shorter for close quarters use if needed. Would you recommend that or will it blow up on me. Only plan on using it once or twice. Gave up hunting along time ago.

[chris37]

Just buy a tactical shotgun with a factory 18” barrel.

I’ve got an 18” 870 with a recoil reducing synth stock and pistol grip that is really nice.

Well, er, I mean I used to have one before that boating trip gotdangit!

You know that that goes!

[MileHi]

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/242364/remington-barrel-remington-870-12-gauge-3-18-1-2-fixed-improved-cylinder-bead-sight-parkerized

[Fightin Whitey]

I would go to a good gunstore that takes trade-ins and gives a fair price.

Trade in your full-length 870 and I don’t think you would have to give much to boot.

That way you have a brand-new defense shotgun with no barrel worries and someone else can put your full-length model to good use.

[niteowl77]

Normally, I'd recommend taking the old field barrel off, greasing it up, putting it away and buying an 18" cylinder- or improved cylinder-choked 870 replacement barrel. But if your hunting days are over, you can certainly cut that long tube down to the legal minimum, but you'll have no choke whatsoever and often times that results in a "donut" pattern that isn't the alley-cleaner people think it ought to be. There are a lot of good 'smiths out there who will - for a reasonable amount - shorten that barrel and then thread it for removeable choke tubes, which allows you to "tune in" the amount of choke that works best for your HD load of choice.

Mr. niteowl77

[donozark]

You didn't specify model, however, I would assume 870? I have an 870 Remington Wingmaster, circa 1974. 28" barrel. If I could hit the ducks with pellets, I'd swing the barrel at them! I bought a "Police barre" and unscrewed friend cap and stuck it on for home defense.

If your Remington is in good condition, I wouldn't mess it up. Just buy a 18" barrel for it. A few years back, I purchased a new 870 Police Special. Comes off Remington Police assembly line. A proven performer.