Swapping barrels on a pump shotgun?

P

phydaux

New member
I feel stupid asking this, but here goes - How hard is it to swap barrels on a pump shotgun?

Say I have an 870 pump 12 gauge with a smooth, 18 inch barrel, just a little something to keep nest to my nightstand for things that go bump in the night.

Can I then buy a 28" smooth barrel, and with "minimal effort" have a shotgun that I could then take duck hunting?

Then later swap that for a 24" rifled barrel to go deer hunting?

Thanks in advance,

phy
 
It takes about two minutes. All it takes is unscrewing the cap at the top of the magazine tube, opening the action and pulling the barrel out. Reverse the process to attach the barrel of your choice (This would be the process for an 870, it will vary slightly by model).
 
With your new barrel, you might want to consider a Takedown case for your 870, it handles the action and several spare barrels in a package that's shorter than a standard case.
case.gif
 
If you have a magazine extension it takes a bit of time, however if you have a standard magazine is is simple matter of moving the forend to the half way point, remove the magazine nut, remove the old barrel, replace with new barrel, install and tighten the magazine nut, and back in business. There is a keeper that retains the magazine spring that makes it all very simple.

Good Luck & Be Safe
 
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Or you could do what I did and look around for a used gun instead of a replacement barrel.I found that cheaper than replacement barrels,but not rifled deer barrels.I just bought a used 870 Wingmaster for $120.No way I can get a replacement barrel for that.
 
I just bought a used 870 Wingmaster for $120.​
Congratulations, a much better deal than a extra barrel, well done.
 
I thought I had a good deal on used Express 28" barrel for $85, but $120 for an entire Wingmaster is smooth. Good for you Charles.
 
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