I need drill and tap service!

[striker500]

Hey guys,

Just bought my first rem 870. Got a good deal on it, but it wasnt the one I wanted. I'm looking to install a 1913 rail ontop of the receiver (like the tactical versions), but its not a new express, so it didnt come factory drilled and tapped. I can do most basic gun smithing, but I would prefer to leave drilling and tapping the receiver to someone who is more qualified. I have the rail and shotgun, just looking for a class 2 ffl who I can send the thing to for some work on it.

Any other suggestions as far as performance upgrades? I'm an HK/AR guy.. so shotguns are something new to me.

Thanks for your help guys.

[rythomas0704]

Hi,
I would spend some time looking for local gunsmiths on Armslist.com or maybe even talk to a couple of your local gun shops. A lot of those places have gun smithing services.

Also... it doesnt really depend on how new your express is. Unfortunately some expresses, like mine which is only 3 years old, just doesnt come with a tapped receiver. Its a basic model. You do have options for a rail though. If you are looking to upgrade your 870 then you will definitely want a side saddle to hold shells. Mesa Tactical makes one that attaches through the trigger group pin holes using an anti walk bolt set. The saddle holds 6 shells ( I think ) and also includes a rail all in one. Its a little pricey but totally worth it.

This is one of the versions that Mesa offers. Not sure where to find it, or others, that are in stock but you can probably contact Mesa Tactical directly. This one was found on Brownells.com. It won't let me post the link for this one specifically. But this is the link to all of the Mesa shell holders on Brownells.

http://www.brownells.com/shooting-acces ... 12%20Gauge

l_100004030_1.jpg (10.52 KiB) Viewed 3411 times

As for upgrades it really depends on what you want to use your 870 for. If you are looking to go tactical/combat then a shorter barrel with a good set of sights is always good. In my opinion optics are rather pointless on a shotgun unless you plan on hunting, and even then I don't even have a scope or any optics on my deer shotgun. Just a good set of Trijicon sights.

I would definitely get a mag extension first, and replace some of the internals (springs, extractor, follower, etc.)

Hope this helps. Any other questions let me know.

[Vitaly]

If somebody needs drilling and tapping, here is my post with photos and video: Drilling and Tapping Remington 870 Receiver to Install Rail (or Ghost Ring Sights)