Just back from range...

brionic · May 25, 2000, 12:37 PM

...where I worked out my new (old) 870.

That was a blast, so to speak. I'm even more impressed now by the capability and strength of this weapon.

Some background: bought a used factory "Riot" model from reputable dealer, and came to realize after bringing it home that this was actually something of a Frankenstein. It's an older Wingmaster that has been parkerized. The wooden stocks, described at the shop as "maple" appear actually to be some generic hardwood that have been refinished in a clear coat. Nice looking, definitely NOT an 870R. Scratch one shop off the list!

Back to the range. Thanks to advice and suggestions from many, I had at least a foggy notion of how to position myself and pattern test the weapon. Range officer OK'd my use of buckshot, but preferred me to use lead #6. OK, I used some of that too, as an FYI.

First impression: WOW. I hadn't used my 20 gauge in years, so I'd forgotten how destructive the shotgun can be. I'm converted, again.

Second impression: the #4 buck held pretty tight out to ~15m. As I do more work, I hope I'll find the "magic" load that holds together even better with this bbl, but for now, for my needs, this is fine.

Third impression: I really need that flexi-tab conversion. Two jams already, out of 35 shells loaded. Operator error, to be sure, but telling nevertheless.

Fourth impression: "Maxi-pad" recoil device worked like a charm. Naturally, it was placed *inside* the sweatshirt...

Thanks again to all for the fine advice. This board provides some of the best info available, along with chuckles a'plenty.

Regards,
--
Brian

[This message has been edited by brionic (edited May 25, 2000).]

Eric of IN · May 26, 2000, 07:23 AM

The "Maxi-Pad" recoil reducer works well, but I still hate buying them at the store.
Eric

brionic · May 26, 2000, 11:49 AM

Yes, the improvised pad has earned me some good natured ribbing from the crew down here. I suppose it's strong enough for a man... but built for a woman!

Erick, the misfeeds occured while loading the shells, not racking the slide. The shells seemed to pop backward, under the carrier. The first time I recognized how important it is to feed the shell all the way in with my thumb. The second time, I grumbled. A LOT. No problems encountered while pumping the action, though. I'm a bully!

By the way, I've really enjoyed Santa Rosa. Friends of mine used to live out on Grange Rd, where they kept horses. Nice area!

Regards,
--
Brian

Dave McC · May 27, 2000, 09:29 AM

That's not a Maxi Pad, that's a Wonderbra(G)!!

And I have one, which I do wear when slugtesting.

No wimp am I, I've made it through one war, 20 years working as a Correctional Officer in Medium and Maximum Security prisons, and a few Cub Scout camping trips.But firing Brennekes,etc, from a 7 lb 870 goes better when I don the Wonderbra.

And I don't get any ribbing on the range when I wear it. Of course, I'm large,and armed(G)...

May 25, 2000, 12:37 PM	#1
brionic Member Join Date: July 14, 1999 Location: USA Posts: 87	...where I worked out my new (old) 870. That was a blast, so to speak. I'm even more impressed now by the capability and strength of this weapon. Some background: bought a used factory "Riot" model from reputable dealer, and came to realize after bringing it home that this was actually something of a Frankenstein. It's an older Wingmaster that has been parkerized. The wooden stocks, described at the shop as "maple" appear actually to be some generic hardwood that have been refinished in a clear coat. Nice looking, definitely NOT an 870R. Scratch one shop off the list! Back to the range. Thanks to advice and suggestions from many, I had at least a foggy notion of how to position myself and pattern test the weapon. Range officer OK'd my use of buckshot, but preferred me to use lead #6. OK, I used some of that too, as an FYI. First impression: WOW. I hadn't used my 20 gauge in years, so I'd forgotten how destructive the shotgun can be. I'm converted, again. Second impression: the #4 buck held pretty tight out to ~15m. As I do more work, I hope I'll find the "magic" load that holds together even better with this bbl, but for now, for my needs, this is fine. Third impression: I really need that flexi-tab conversion. Two jams already, out of 35 shells loaded. Operator error, to be sure, but telling nevertheless. Fourth impression: "Maxi-pad" recoil device worked like a charm. Naturally, it was placed inside the sweatshirt... Thanks again to all for the fine advice. This board provides some of the best info available, along with chuckles a'plenty. Regards, -- Brian [This message has been edited by brionic (edited May 25, 2000).]

May 26, 2000, 07:23 AM	#2
Eric of IN Senior Member Join Date: April 4, 2000 Posts: 425	The "Maxi-Pad" recoil reducer works well, but I still hate buying them at the store. Eric

May 26, 2000, 11:49 AM	#3
brionic Member Join Date: July 14, 1999 Location: USA Posts: 87	Yes, the improvised pad has earned me some good natured ribbing from the crew down here. I suppose it's strong enough for a man... but built for a woman! Erick, the misfeeds occured while loading the shells, not racking the slide. The shells seemed to pop backward, under the carrier. The first time I recognized how important it is to feed the shell all the way in with my thumb. The second time, I grumbled. A LOT. No problems encountered while pumping the action, though. I'm a bully! By the way, I've really enjoyed Santa Rosa. Friends of mine used to live out on Grange Rd, where they kept horses. Nice area! Regards, -- Brian

May 27, 2000, 09:29 AM	#4
Dave McC Staff In Memoriam Join Date: October 13, 1999 Location: Columbia, Md, USA Posts: 8,811	That's not a Maxi Pad, that's a Wonderbra(G)!! And I have one, which I do wear when slugtesting. No wimp am I, I've made it through one war, 20 years working as a Correctional Officer in Medium and Maximum Security prisons, and a few Cub Scout camping trips.But firing Brennekes,etc, from a 7 lb 870 goes better when I don the Wonderbra. And I don't get any ribbing on the range when I wear it. Of course, I'm large,and armed(G)...