[JStordahl]

Greetings: Are the light contour barrels on Remington 870s desireable? I ran across an A prefix 870 with Magnum receiver and 26" light barrel contour. It sure did point nice, but are there any inherent problems with them? Thank you for your input.

[Dave McCracken]

Originally, 870 barrels were nicely built and light,with dimensions similar to the newer LC barrels.

Then, a passle of idiots plugged up the muzzles of their Remington shotguns, shot them, and more idiots on juries awarded them millions of Remington's money.

The next generation of barrels from Remington were designed by lawyers, and the introduction of choke tubes exacerbated the situation. These barrels are stronger, but often weigh close to 8 oz more.

The Light Contour barrels are a return to the old style, but improvements in metallurgy have made them stronger then of old.

Downside, QC at Big Green has slipped badly, but there's still LOTS of good barrels coming out of Ilion. Pick and choose.

Next barrel I'm buying here WILL be a LC. For clays and faster wingshooting, the heavier barrels are a trifle slow for me, though YMMV.

Unless that 870 with LC barrel is abused or overpriced, jump on it.

[JStordahl]

Thanks Dave: I think it is overpriced at $399, but maybe they will accept an offer. It seemed like a sweet shotgun. My A5 Browning Stalker sports a 28" tube, and I always wished it had been a 26 incher. Thanks again.

[Dave McCracken]

You're very welcome. $400 sounds a bit high, but it's up to you....