Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower Review

Was the Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower Worth It?

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, from the rugged outdoors to precise laboratory settings, I’ve learned to appreciate the subtle but significant impact small components can have on overall firearm performance. The Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower, specifically the 20 gauge variant, is one such component. It’s a small, often overlooked part that plays a crucial role in the reliable operation of some of the most popular shotguns on the market.

My journey to this particular shell follower began during a rather frustrating trap shooting session. A particular Remington 870, a reliable workhorse, started experiencing intermittent feeding issues. While I’d encountered this before and knew it often boiled down to magazine tube condition or follower wear, I decided to go beyond a simple cleaning. I wanted to proactively upgrade a part that, while seemingly minor, is directly in the path of every shell making its way into the chamber. This led me to search for a more robust and visible replacement for the standard, often black, plastic follower.

Upon receiving the Choate Tool unit, my initial impression was one of straightforward utility. The construction felt solid, and the safety orange polymer was a noticeable departure from the drab OEM part. It felt durable, a characteristic I always look for in components that are subjected to repeated mechanical action. I briefly considered a few other brands, but the promise of a visible, durable follower from a reputable manufacturer like Choate Tool tipped the scales. The immediate thought was, “This looks like it’ll do the job, and then some.” It offered a simple, yet effective, solution to a potential point of failure.

Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower to the Test

My testing grounds for this particular firearm accessory were primarily focused on a shooting range environment, specifically during extended clay pigeon shooting sessions and a few informal practice drills. This is where reliability and smooth cycling are paramount, as a single malfunction can disrupt the flow of a competition or practice. I also subjected it to a brief period of storage in a gun bag that occasionally sees light moisture and dust to simulate more generalized field-use conditions.

First Use Experience

The first time I installed the Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower, the process was remarkably intuitive. It slipped into the magazine tube with a satisfying, snug fit, immediately feeling more substantial than the original part. During the initial firing session, the difference was subtle but perceptible. The action felt smoother, and the visual cue of the bright orange follower at the end of the magazine tube was surprisingly helpful in confirming the gun’s status at a glance.

There were no immediate issues or surprises during this initial use. The follower moved freely within the tube, and I experienced no binding or hesitation. Even with rapid firing, which can sometimes induce malfunctions if components aren’t perfectly aligned, the Choate Tool unit performed admirably. The non-tilting tail feature, which the product description highlights, indeed seemed to contribute to a more consistent presentation of shells to the bolt.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, spanning dozens of boxes of shells and countless clay targets, the Choate Tool shell follower has proven its mettle. It has consistently fed ammunition flawlessly, even with various loads ranging from light target loads to heavier hunting shells. The safety orange polymer has held up remarkably well, showing only the faintest signs of scuffing from contact with the magazine tube.

Durability has been a significant strong point. Unlike some plastic components that can become brittle or develop cracks over time, this follower feels robust. There are no indications of stiffness, and it continues to slide smoothly within the magazine tube. Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a cleaning cloth is usually sufficient, and it can be easily removed for a more thorough cleaning if needed.

Compared to other followers I’ve used over the years, both OEM and aftermarket, this Choate Tool unit stands out. It’s a clear upgrade from basic, utilitarian parts, offering a blend of enhanced visibility and functional reliability that justifies its modest price. It doesn’t have the complexity of some high-end competition-grade parts, but for its intended purpose and price point, its performance is exceptional.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower

The Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower is a deceptively simple component, yet its design and material choices contribute significantly to its effectiveness. Understanding these features provides a clearer picture of why it performs as it does.

Specifications

The core specifications of this follower are straightforward, focusing on material and design. It is constructed from a safety orange polymer, which is a key differentiator. This material choice contributes to its durability and provides the crucial visual indicator. The product is specifically designed for 20 gauge Remington 870, 1100, and 1187 shotguns.

The non-tilting tail is another critical design feature. This ensures that the follower maintains a stable orientation within the magazine tube, preventing it from canting and potentially impeding shell feeding. The bright orange color serves as an excellent visual indicator; when the magazine is empty, the follower is clearly visible, allowing the shooter to confirm the firearm’s status at a glance. This specification is vital for safety and situational awareness, especially in low-light conditions or during rapid shooting sequences.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job – facilitating the smooth feeding of shells from the magazine tube to the action – the Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower excels. Its most significant functional strength is its consistent reliability. During my extensive testing, it never faltered, ensuring that each shell was presented correctly to the bolt face.

The smooth operation is a direct result of the quality polymer and the well-designed non-tilting tail. It moves freely without snagging or binding, a common issue with worn or poorly designed followers. While its functionality is limited to a single, albeit crucial, task, it performs that task exceptionally well, meeting and exceeding expectations for a part of its nature and cost.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this shell follower is driven by pure function, with aesthetics taking a backseat to utility, though the safety orange polymer adds a practical visual element. The build quality feels very good for a polymer part; it’s rigid and feels like it can withstand the rigors of repeated use without deforming or cracking. There are no intricate controls or markings to worry about, making its ergonomic aspect simply about its fit and smooth movement within the magazine tube.

The non-tilting tail design is the most significant ergonomic consideration here, as it directly impacts the shooter’s experience by ensuring proper shell presentation. The safety orange aspect is a thoughtful addition that enhances user awareness. It’s a design that prioritizes flawless function over complex features, which is precisely what you want in a critical firearm component.

Durability & Maintenance

For a polymer component designed to slide within a metal tube, the durability of the Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower appears to be excellent. Under normal use for its intended application (shotgun feeding), it is likely to last for many thousands of rounds. Its simple construction means there are few potential failure points.

Maintenance is minimal, which is a significant advantage. A quick wipe-down to remove powder residue or dust is typically all that’s needed. It’s easy to remove for deeper cleaning if desired, and reinstallation is just as simple. I haven’t encountered any specific maintenance concerns, and I anticipate it will remain a reliable part for the foreseeable future.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular product, being a replacement internal component for a shotgun, doesn’t come with accessories in the traditional sense, nor does it offer customization options for the follower itself. Its value lies in its direct replacement functionality. However, its integration with the shotgun system means that its performance is indirectly enhanced by the quality of the shotgun’s magazine tube and spring. A well-maintained magazine tube and a properly tensioned spring will always contribute to the follower’s smooth operation.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower

Who Should Buy Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower?

This Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower is an ideal component for any owner of a 20 gauge Remington 870, 1100, or 1187 shotgun who values reliability and enhanced safety awareness. Trap and skeet shooters, particularly those engaged in rapid fire or competition, will benefit immensely from its dependable feeding and visual status indication. Hunters who want an extra layer of confidence in their firearm’s operation, especially in varying weather or light conditions, will also find it a worthwhile upgrade.

Anyone experiencing intermittent feeding issues with their 20 gauge Remington shotgun should strongly consider this part as a first step in troubleshooting. Conversely, if you own a different gauge shotgun, or if you are perfectly satisfied with the performance and visibility of your current OEM follower, then this specific model might not be a necessary purchase. For those who do opt for this follower, there are no essential must-have accessories, as it’s an internal component designed for direct replacement.

Conclusion on Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower

The Choate Tool Remington 870/1100/1187 Shell Follower is a testament to how a small, inexpensive part can make a noticeable difference in the overall performance and safety of a firearm. Its robust construction, reliable feeding, and highly visible safety orange polymer design make it an excellent upgrade for any owner of a compatible 20 gauge Remington shotgun. The value proposition is exceptionally strong; for a mere $5.33, you’re getting a part that enhances reliability and provides critical visual feedback, far exceeding what one might expect at this price point.

I would unequivocally recommend this shell follower to any shooter who uses the specified Remington shotguns. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable way to ensure smoother operation and greater peace of mind on the range or in the field. If you own a 20 gauge Remington 870, 1100, or 1187, consider this a no-brainer upgrade that will likely enhance your shooting experience without breaking the bank.