Rem 870 Barrel Replacement

[ks_shooter]

I am interested in upgrading the barrel on my 1970's vintage 20 gauge 870 Wingmaster. It currently has a plain barrel with an improved cylinder and 2 3/4 chamber. I would like to replace this with a barrel that has the replaceable chokes and a vent rib. Since the chamber is integral with the barrel, can I install a barrel with a 3" chamber? Or is the receiver not long enough or strong enough for this? What about magnum loads? Thanks.

 

[Omaha-BeenGlockin]

The 3in chamber barrels will fit-----but you still have a 2.75 receiver----so that means 2.75 shells only---but you'll have choke tubes.

Just go get a 20ga Express.

 

[Dave McCracken]

The receiver IS strong enough, but the ejector is not positioned correctly for 3" mags.

Stick to the shorter stuff in that fine old WM. If you need magnum performance, upgrade to a 12 gauge, either Express or (My choice) Wingmaster.

Everyone can use another 870, right?

 

[ks_shooter]

Thanks for the replies. Concerning the ejector, I assume that it is too far forward, and would thus start to turn the empty case before is completely cleared the chamber? Is the ejection port large enough for 3" shells?

The only replacement barrels that I can find come with 3" chambers (they specifically state that only 2-3/4" shells should be used in 2-3/4" receivers, but the 3" shells will fit), this sounds like a recipe for trouble. I would not intentionally use 3" shells, but Murphy is always hanging around.

 

[dfariswheel]

If it bugs you, you can have a gunsmith replace the shorter 2 3/4" ejector assembly with a 3" Magnum ejector assembly.
You are then good to go with either 2 3/4" OR 3" shells.