870 tactical for trap
- Thread starter Noob_
- Start date
I've seen 870s around but very few tactical. You will find all sorts of shotguns on the trap range from o/u's, pumps, to semis. Plenty of new shooters have started with the 870 express given its low cost of entry.
My only advice would be go with the best shotgun you can afford which fits you right. Down the road it will retain its value much better and will help you enjoy the sport. Good luck.
My only advice would be go with the best shotgun you can afford which fits you right. Down the road it will retain its value much better and will help you enjoy the sport. Good luck.
Youngfreshtoodeath
Regular
- Location
- Safe Harbour, BC
I do alot of trap, skeet and clay pigeon shooting with my tactical 870. It's far from the best but will work. I like to use 7 1/2# or 8# shot when I do it. The tactical breach choke keeps a pretty tight shot... I just don't like the ghost ring at the back, it gets in the way.
- Location
- Terrace, BC
Pattern the gun on newspaper from a similar distance you'd shoot trap... what, 16 yards or so is the closest? ... too see if you have a chance.
I have no doubt your tactical gun would be fine for trap, though for sure, there is a reason guys use longer guns... keep the shot pattern denser, longer.
I notice a significant difference in results simply having the wrong chokes in a 30" gun. Anything less than full choke on a trap bay is a struggle for me. It almost feels like you are shooting right through the clays, using the wrong choke, that won't break 'em.
Have fun & give it a try with your tactical gun, but be sure to compare and shoot trap with a full choked long shotgun.
Truthfully, every shotgun, can shoot different loads differently. Most novice shooters (myself included, my interest in trap shooting far exceeds my free time available) will not pattern their trap loads... and patterning your gun, trying different chokes at the very least, and if hunting or competitive, then trying different brands is important too.
My experience is most guys on a fun, open trap shoot day at your club won't mind letting you try their long shot guns.
Have fun.
I have no doubt your tactical gun would be fine for trap, though for sure, there is a reason guys use longer guns... keep the shot pattern denser, longer.
I notice a significant difference in results simply having the wrong chokes in a 30" gun. Anything less than full choke on a trap bay is a struggle for me. It almost feels like you are shooting right through the clays, using the wrong choke, that won't break 'em.
Have fun & give it a try with your tactical gun, but be sure to compare and shoot trap with a full choked long shotgun.
Truthfully, every shotgun, can shoot different loads differently. Most novice shooters (myself included, my interest in trap shooting far exceeds my free time available) will not pattern their trap loads... and patterning your gun, trying different chokes at the very least, and if hunting or competitive, then trying different brands is important too.
My experience is most guys on a fun, open trap shoot day at your club won't mind letting you try their long shot guns.
Have fun.
Yup when I am not hitting them with the 1100 , I pull out the 18.5 870 out ! If you are on the bird quick it will turn them into dust and if you need a bit more distance try larger shot . we Have our own electric trap thrower that we use in the woods , Biggest complaint with the 18.5 is by the guy standing to the left ant the right of me because its loud!
