Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock Review

What I Found Using the Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock

For years, I’ve been searching for a more comfortable and controllable stock for my Remington 870, especially when handling it in tighter configurations or for specific shooting disciplines. The standard, traditional stock, while functional, often felt a bit long and unwieldy, leading to some awkward handling, particularly with my thumb placement. This led me to explore aftermarket options, and the Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock immediately caught my eye due to its compact design and the promise of improved grip.

My specific need arose from configuring an 870 for more dynamic shooting scenarios, where a shorter length of pull and a more pistol-like grip seemed advantageous. Traditional stocks, while classic, sometimes place the shooter’s thumb too close to their dominant hand’s shooting eye or nose, creating an uncomfortable experience. The pistol grip configuration on this Choate offering directly addresses that common issue.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was of a solid, no-nonsense piece of hardware. The glass-filled polymer construction felt robust, with clean lines and a consistent matte black finish. It lacked the flashy aesthetics of some premium brands, but that wasn’t what I was after; I prioritized function and durability.

I considered a few other pistol grip stocks, including some that required adapter plates, but the direct fitment for the 870 20 gauge and standard models was a significant draw. The simplicity of the design, coupled with the reputation of Choate Tool, made this feel like a straightforward, practical choice. My immediate feeling was one of cautious optimism, hoping this would finally solve the handling quirks I’d experienced.

Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my home workshop and then at a local range. I was eager to see how the compact design of the Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock would translate to actual handling and shooting. The installation was straightforward, fitting snugly onto my Remington 870 20 gauge without any need for adapters, which was a welcome relief from previous aftermarket installations.

At the range, the difference was immediately apparent. The compact length of pull made it easier to shoulder the shotgun quickly and maintain a stable shooting platform. Even with standard 20-gauge loads, the pistol grip felt more secure and natural in my hand, offering a better grasp compared to the traditional stock’s grip.

However, there was a slight learning curve. A shooter with smaller hands noted that the grip itself felt a bit on the fuller side, making it slightly less comfortable for them than they might have preferred. This is a common trade-off with pistol grips, where compromises are often made to accommodate a broader range of hand sizes.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, this stock has become a permanent fixture on my 870, which I now primarily use for turkey hunting and as a personal defense firearm. The stock has proven to be remarkably smooth and lightweight, contributing to the overall balance of the shotgun. Crucially, I’ve noticed that it doesn’t vibrate excessively when firing, even with heavier loads, which contributes to a more pleasant shooting experience.

Durability has been excellent. Despite being exposed to various weather conditions during hunting seasons and general handling in my workshop, there are no visible signs of stress, cracks, or degradation in the glass-filled polymer. The matte finish has held up well against minor scuffs and abrasions.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean. The only minor niggle I’ve encountered during extended use is that the thicker pistol grip can make operating the safety selector slightly more challenging, especially for those accustomed to the wider clearance of a traditional stock. It requires a more deliberate press of the thumb.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock

Specifications

The Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock boasts several key specifications designed for practical application. It is constructed from glass-filled polymer, a material known for its strength, rigidity, and resistance to impact. This material choice is crucial for a firearm accessory that needs to withstand recoil and potential rough handling.

The stock features a pistol grip for improved handling, which allows for a more secure and intuitive grasp. Its compact length of pull is a significant design element, measuring 11 3/4 inches, making it ideal for younger shooters or those who prefer a shorter stock for faster shouldering and maneuverability. It is manufactured by Choate Tool, a reputable American company, and is made in the USA.

The color is black, offering a classic, understated look that blends well with most firearm finishes. This model is specifically designed for Remington Model 870 shotguns, including the 20 Gauge variant, ensuring a precise fit. The quantity is one stock per package.

These specifications collectively contribute to a stock that is both lightweight and durable. The glass-filled polymer offers a superior strength-to-weight ratio compared to standard polymers, ensuring longevity. The compact length is paramount for those who find traditional stocks too long, promoting better control and quicker target acquisition.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any shotgun stock is to provide a stable shooting platform and absorb recoil, and the Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock performs commendably in this regard, especially given its intended use. The pistol grip itself offers a much more secure hold than a traditional grip, which is invaluable during dynamic shooting or when wearing gloves.

Its main strength lies in its improved handling and control. The shorter length of pull allows for quicker mounting of the shotgun to the shoulder, a critical advantage in personal defense scenarios or when moving quickly through dense cover during a hunt. The stock effectively absorbs a good portion of the felt recoil, making follow-up shots easier and less fatiguing, a testament to the glass-filled polymer construction.

However, a noted weakness is the slightly increased difficulty in manipulating the shotgun’s safety selector. The thicker profile of the pistol grip can obscure or make it less intuitive to reach the safety mechanism, requiring a more deliberate thumb movement than with a conventional stock. This is a common compromise for pistol grip designs, but it’s something users should be aware of. It meets expectations for its intended purpose, particularly for youth or smaller-framed shooters, but those prioritizing lightning-fast safety manipulation might need to adapt.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock is utilitarian and functional, prioritizing robust construction over aesthetic flair. The glass-filled polymer feels solid and substantial, suggesting it can endure considerable stress. The matte black finish is practical, resisting glare and typical handling marks reasonably well.

Ergonomically, the pistol grip is comfortable for most average-sized adult hands, though as a smaller-handed shooter pointed out, it can feel a touch on the large side. This is a subjective aspect, but it’s important to note. The grip’s contours are well-defined, providing a secure purchase, which is a significant improvement over a slippery traditional stock.

The compact length is the most striking ergonomic feature, significantly altering the feel and handling dynamics of the shotgun. It brings the shooter’s face closer to the receiver, potentially improving eye relief for some optics or sighting systems. The transition from the receiver to the grip is smooth, with no sharp edges or uncomfortable transitions.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock appears built to last. The glass-filled polymer is inherently tough and resistant to common environmental factors like moisture and UV exposure. I’ve subjected it to outdoor use in varying conditions, and it shows no signs of cracking, warping, or becoming brittle.

Maintenance is exceptionally straightforward. Unlike wooden stocks that require refinishing or metal parts that can rust, this polymer stock simply needs an occasional wipe-down. There are no intricate mechanisms or difficult-to-reach areas that accumulate debris.

Potential points of concern are minimal. The primary area to watch would be the junction where the stock meets the receiver, but the robust construction of Choate Tool products generally ensures this connection remains solid. For a component designed for hard use, its low-maintenance nature is a significant advantage.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock is a standalone component and does not typically come with additional accessories. Its design is focused on being a direct replacement or upgrade for the factory stock. Therefore, there are no included items like cleaning kits or specialized tools.

Customization options for this specific stock are also limited, as it is primarily designed for function and fitment. Unlike some modular systems, it doesn’t offer interchangeable grip panels or adjustable length-of-pull extensions. However, its compatibility with the Remington 870 platform means it benefits from the vast aftermarket ecosystem available for that popular shotgun.

For instance, while this stock itself isn’t customizable, it can be paired with various aftermarket sights, optics, or sling mounts that are designed to work with standard Remington 870 receivers. The black, glass-filled polymer finish also provides a good base for custom paint jobs if one desires a unique aesthetic, though this is a purely cosmetic modification.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock

Who Should Buy Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock?

This stock is an excellent choice for youth shooters, smaller-framed individuals, or anyone looking for a more compact and controllable Remington 870 shotgun. It is particularly well-suited for those who intend to use their shotgun for personal defense, turkey hunting, or any application where rapid shouldering and maneuverability are beneficial. The Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock provides a significant upgrade in handling for these users.

Conversely, individuals who prioritize extremely fast safety manipulation above all else, or those with exceptionally large hands who might find the grip too thick, may want to look at alternatives. Shooters who prefer the traditional feel and aesthetics of a wooden stock would also likely not be the target audience for this polymer pistol grip.

For those purchasing this stock, consider pairing it with a good quality sling for easier carrying during hunts. If you plan on using optics, ensuring your chosen sight or mount is compatible with the 870 platform will be essential.

Conclusion on Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock

The Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock is a highly practical and well-executed upgrade for the Remington 870 platform. It delivers on its promise of improved handling and control through its compact length of pull and secure pistol grip. The glass-filled polymer construction ensures durability and a lightweight feel, making it a reliable choice for various shooting disciplines.

While the slight difficulty in operating the safety selector is a minor trade-off, it is a common characteristic of pistol grip designs and one that most users can adapt to. For its price point of $78.87, it offers exceptional value, providing a significant functional enhancement over standard factory stocks.

I would confidently recommend the Choate Tool Remington Lightweight 870 Pistol Grip Youth Body Armor Stock to anyone seeking a more manageable and effective Remington 870, especially younger shooters or those who need a shorter, more controllable firearm. It’s a solid, no-frills upgrade that genuinely improves the shooting experience without breaking the bank.