Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock Review

What Happened When I Tried the Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock

For years, my Remington 870 has been a reliable workhorse, but I’ve always felt a need for quicker access to spare shells. The standard shell carrier is functional, but it’s slow and awkward under any sort of pressure. This led me to search for aftermarket solutions that could keep me better supplied without adding significant bulk or complexity. After considering a few options, the Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock caught my eye, promising integrated shell retention with all the features of its predecessor.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The glass-filled polymer felt robust, and the overall design, while not flashy, conveyed a sense of purpose-built utility. I had briefly looked at other add-on shell carriers, but the idea of an integrated solution that replaced the entire stock assembly appealed to me more for its cleaner lines and potential for greater stability. My first reaction was a pragmatic curiosity; it looked like it would do exactly what it claimed.

Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock on my personal Remington 870 Wingmaster, a platform I’ve used for various roles over the past decade. The installation process was straightforward, requiring basic tools and a few minutes of attention. My first range session involved testing the shell retention mechanism and overall handling characteristics of the shotgun with the new stock.

Under typical shooting conditions, the grip felt secure, and the recoil pad did its job adequately. The primary focus, however, was on accessing the stored shells. Retrieving them was a bit of a learning curve initially; it required a specific grip and a firm pull. This was a slight surprise, as I had expected near-instantaneous access, but it was manageable once I adapted my technique.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and numerous range days, the Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock has held up remarkably well. It’s been exposed to dust, the occasional light drizzle, and repeated handling without any signs of significant wear or degradation. The polymer construction has shown no cracks or warping, and the shell retention screws, while needing occasional minor adjustments for optimal shell grip, remain secure.

Compared to other shotgun accessories I’ve used, this integrated stock is very low maintenance. A quick wipe-down is all it typically needs, and the shell adjustment screws allow for fine-tuning the retention force, which is a valuable feature for different shell types and user preferences. I haven’t encountered any instances where the shells have fallen out unintentionally, nor have I struggled to extract them once I became familiar with the process.

Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock

Specifications

The Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock is crafted from rugged glass-filled polymer, ensuring durability and resistance to the elements. It is designed to hold five spare shells of 2 ¾” or 3” 12-gauge ammunition, accessed conveniently from the bottom. The stock includes a 1-inch rubber recoil pad for improved comfort during firing.

It comes with both a 1/4-inch spacer and a 1/2-inch spacer, allowing for length of pull (LOP) adjustments. With no spacers, the LOP is 14 1/4 inches, extending to 15 inches with both spacers installed. The unit weighs in at a substantial 1 lb 7 oz, contributing to its solid feel.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this stock is to provide quick access to spare ammunition, and it largely succeeds in this regard. The integrated shell loops are well-placed, keeping the extra rounds readily available for reloads. The ability to adjust the tightness of the shell retention using the side screws is a standout feature, allowing users to fine-tune how securely the shells are held, preventing accidental loss while ensuring they can still be drawn with reasonable effort.

Its main strength lies in this integrated design, eliminating the need for separate shell carriers that can snag or shift. The main drawback I’ve noted is that the shell extraction, while feasible, isn’t as lightning-fast as some dedicated tactical shell holders. However, for general use and scenarios where immediate, split-second reloads aren’t the absolute priority, it performs admirably.

Design & Ergonomics

The Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock features a practical, pistol-grip design that offers a comfortable and secure hold. The glass-filled polymer construction feels solid and confidence-inspiring, not cheap or flimsy. The integrated design means there are fewer parts to rattle or come loose.

The texture on the grip is adequate, providing a decent purchase even with gloves on, though it’s not overly aggressive. The included recoil pad is a welcome addition, offering a good compromise between effective recoil absorption and maintaining a manageable LOP. The adjustability of the LOP with the included spacers is a thoughtful touch that enhances user comfort across different statures.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials and construction, the Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock appears built for longevity. The glass-filled polymer is known for its strength and resistance to impact and environmental factors. I have experienced no issues with cracking, chipping, or premature wear after extensive use.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple; a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. The only potential area for wear might be the shell retention mechanism over many thousands of cycles, but currently, there are no signs of that. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of accessory in terms of ongoing upkeep.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock comes with essential accessories for customization: a 1-inch rubber recoil pad, a 1/4-inch spacer, and a 1/2-inch spacer. These allow users to tailor the length of pull to their specific needs.

While the stock itself is a fixed unit, the spacers provide a degree of customization for fit. The optional orange color for less-lethal applications is a notable variant for specific use cases. Beyond these included items and color options, there are no further customization points on the stock itself.

Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock

Who Should Buy Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock?

This stock is an excellent option for Remington 870 owners who prioritize integrated ammunition management and a clean, streamlined setup. It’s ideal for shooters who frequently need extra shells readily accessible, such as those involved in competitive shotgun sports, tactical training, or general defensive shotgun use where quick reloads are beneficial. If you appreciate a more utilitarian approach and want your spare ammo to be a seamless part of the firearm, this is a strong contender.

Conversely, individuals who demand the absolute fastest shell access might find dedicated external shell carriers superior, even if they add bulk. Those who are extremely sensitive to firearm weight or prefer highly customizable stocks with adjustable cheek pieces might also want to look elsewhere. A recommended accessory would be ensuring you have a variety of shell types on hand to test the retention adjustment to its optimal setting for your preferred ammunition.

Conclusion on Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock

The Choate Tool Remington 870 Mark 6 Stock delivers on its promise of integrated shell storage and robust construction. It transforms the Remington 870 into a more self-sufficient platform by keeping five spare shells within easy reach, a significant advantage in many shooting scenarios. While the shell retrieval isn’t as instantaneous as some specialized accessories, the ability to adjust retention tension and the overall durability make it a very practical upgrade.

Considering its price point of $99.99, the value proposition is strong. You gain both a stock replacement and a substantial ammunition carrier in one unit. I would personally recommend this stock to any Remington 870 user looking for a reliable, integrated solution for increased magazine capacity. It’s a solid, functional enhancement that brings added utility without undue complexity, making it a worthwhile investment for your shotgun.