Finding the right firearm for a young hunter or shooter is crucial. A proper fit ensures safety, comfort, and encourages a positive shooting experience. For the popular Remington 870 20 gauge, the youth stock set is a game-changer, making this powerful shotgun accessible and enjoyable for younger individuals. This guide will delve into the features, benefits, and considerations of the Remington 870 20 gauge youth stock set.
Understanding the Importance of a Proper Fit
Before diving into the specifics of the Remington 870 youth stock, let's emphasize the critical importance of a well-fitting firearm. A gun that's too large or too small can lead to:
- Poor accuracy: An improper stock length can cause the shooter to mount the gun incorrectly, resulting in missed shots.
- Discomfort and fatigue: A gun that's too heavy or awkward to hold will quickly tire a young shooter, diminishing their enjoyment and potentially leading to unsafe handling.
- Safety concerns: A poorly fitted gun can be more difficult to control, increasing the risk of accidents.
The Remington 870 20 gauge youth stock set directly addresses these concerns by providing a smaller, lighter, and more ergonomically designed platform specifically for younger shooters.
Key Features of the Remington 870 20 Gauge Youth Stock Set
The youth stock set typically includes a shorter length of pull (LOP) stock and a reduced-size forend. This means:
- Shorter Length of Pull: The distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock is significantly reduced, allowing younger shooters with shorter arms to comfortably reach the trigger and maintain proper shooting posture.
- Reduced Drop at Comb and Heel: These dimensions are adjusted to fit the smaller stature of a youth, promoting proper cheek weld and eye alignment with the sights.
- Lighter Weight: The materials used in the youth stock set are often designed to be lighter than adult stocks, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
- Improved Ergonomics: The design often incorporates features that enhance grip and control, especially important for less physically developed young shooters.
While specific dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and model year, the core principle remains consistent: to provide a comfortable and safe shooting experience tailored to the physical capabilities of a young shooter.
Choosing the Right Remington 870 Youth Stock Set
While the basic principles remain the same, you might find subtle variations in Remington 870 youth stock sets. It's crucial to ensure the stock fits your specific child. Consider these points:
- The Shooter's Size and Build: Measure your child's height and arm length. Many retailers offer sizing charts or guides to help you find the appropriate stock.
- Type of Shooting: The intended use (e.g., hunting, trap shooting, skeet) might influence the choice of stock features.
- Budget: Youth stock sets vary in price depending on materials and features.
Safety Considerations: Adult Supervision is Paramount
It's essential to stress that adult supervision is paramount when young people are handling firearms. Even with a perfectly fitted youth stock, proper firearm safety instruction and constant adult oversight are indispensable. Never leave a young shooter unsupervised with a loaded firearm.
Conclusion: Empowering Young Shooters with the Right Tools
The Remington 870 20 gauge youth stock set is a valuable investment that significantly enhances the safety and enjoyment of shooting for young individuals. By carefully considering the features, fit, and safety aspects, you can provide a positive and empowering introduction to the world of responsible firearms ownership and shooting sports. Remember to always prioritize safety and proper training.
