What's the story?

I inherited one recently and I'm going to pick it up tomorrow. And have tried to research some but I am confused!

Are all 20 gauges now lightweights? Are the old 20 gauges the ones that are built on the 12 gauge frame?

As much info as possible would be much appreciated!

Thanks folks!

Anyone?

In 1972 Remington introduced the 20 gauge "Lightweight" Model 870 in both standard and magnum versions, with scaled-down receivers and mahogany stocks and forends, weighing only 5lbs/12oz. Prices ranged from $139.95 for a plain barrel version to $184.95 for the 3" magnum model with ventilated rib barrel.

After that all 20 gauges were built on the scaled down receivers with few exceptions, one being a "special field" offering in 1985.

Barrel lengths and lengths of pull were changed a few times adding some confusion to the lightweight name. Such as in 1981 Remington introduced Model 870 20 gauge "Lightweight Limited" with 23" barrel and 12½ inch length of pull - "for younger shooters and smaller-framed adults." but then changed again in 1984 giving the name "Lightweight Limited" to Model 870 20 gauge Lightweight "Youth Gun" with a change in barrel length to 21-inches.

In 1986 Rem Chokes came long and then in 1987 the Express hit tee shelves.

Prior to 1972/73 all 20 gauges were built on the standard frame.

What is the serial number and barrel date code of yours?

Welcome to the Remington Owners Forum !!

TuJays wrote:
What is the serial number and barrel date code of yours?

THANKS!

my serial # is t672234k built in May of '77.

the barrel code is "K0" also seems to be made in May of '77.

so with that info you gave me any 20 gauge forend and stock from '74 on will work with my shotgun?

SHOOTER13 wrote:Welcome to the Remington Owners Forum !!

thank you good sir!

"T" prefix in your serial number indicates that the guns receiver was made possible starting in 1973 thru early 1978 when the prefix letter switched to a "V". the "K" at the end does in fact confirm that it is a 20 gauge Light Weight model:)
and YES the "KO" barrel code is May, 1977

Probably any 20 gauge light weight forearm from 1972 on will work.
I assume it must be cracked since you specifically mention it (the forearm)?
If so try to find a matched set of forearm and stock.
Post a pic for us to see if you can:)
Best of luck!

TuJays wrote:"T" prefix in your serial number indicates that the guns receiver was made possible starting in 1973 thru early 1978 when the prefix letter switched to a "V". the "K" at the end does in fact confirm that it is a 20 gauge Light Weight model:)
and YES the "KO" barrel code is May, 1977

Probably any 20 gauge light weight forearm from 1972 on will work.
I assume it must be cracked since you specifically mention it (the forearm)?
If so try to find a matched set of forearm and stock.
Post a pic for us to see if you can:)
Best of luck!

will do on the pics

its in rough shape now... needs to be completely polished and reblued! and the forend is not cracked or anything but just want to spend a lil money on it so new furniture and def a blue job!

and im looking at this one here

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/870180 ... etic-black

Going black are ya.....well it is in style:)
Save your wood, get it refinished and you can add it back on should you ever desire or you can also sell it to help cover the cost of your new items.

Be careful when taking the forearm off and on so you do not bend the action bars and it is not twisted.

yeah i dont like the flat finish on the new wood stocks.... if i could find a full size older one i would put it on... but im tired of looking

but definitely will keep the factory stock and forend.

the length of pull on the factory stock is like 10.5 inches i measured it last night. that is pretty much unshootable for almost any adult

Got it back together folks... Check it out!