870 extension question

[TreeDoc]

Have an older 870, that a few years back had the barrel reduced to 18 1/2 inches. The other day I found a screw on extension and have installed it. It sticks out about 1/2 inch beyond end of the barrel. The extension is metal and very sturdy. Will the extension be hurt by shooting and is a barrel/extension clamp needed?

 

[MyGreenGuns]

Will the extension be hurt by shooting?
Mine has a permanant black mark on it. It has held up for several years so far.

.. and is a barrel/extension clamp needed?
Its probably ok without it. Most extensions are pretty solid. I have the clamp on mine, but have shot it without.

 

[Jeff F]

I'd use a clamp, the threads are thin and the extension can get bumped or the gun could get dropped somehow and screw up the end of the magazine tube.

 

[Dave McCracken]

A clamp is a very good idea....

 

[Walkalong]

Mine sticks out about a half inch, and other than the powder/crud buildup, it seems fine. I have since shortened the stock by 1/2". Fits much better.

 

[Fred Fuller]

Remington factory extensions were developed with a hefty barrel clamp that incorporated a bayonet lug. The half inch of the extension that protruded beyond the muzzle was there for the ring of the bayonet to mount on. Search online for the 870 MkI for pictures...

The protrusion won't hurt anything, but I would still use a clamp on any extension that holds two rounds or more. The extension may ve plenty sturdy, but the magazine tube is thin sheet metal, and that's what you need to protect with the barrel clamp.