I Tested the Best Remington 870 Choke Tubes: My Honest Guide to Better Shotgun Performance

AvatarByGrant Hollis

When I first started exploring the world of shotguns, I quickly realized that small components can make a big difference—and few parts are as influential as Remington 870 choke tubes. Whether I’m looking to tighten a pattern for more precision or open it up for broader coverage, these simple attachments play a major role in shaping performance. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes Remington 870 choke tubes such an important part of the shotgun experience and why they continue to matter to so many shooters.

I Tested The Remington 870 Choke Tubes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Carlson's Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Mid Range | 0.715 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA

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Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Mid Range | 0.715 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA

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Carlson's Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Modified | 0.705 Diameter ] Blued Steel | White Wing Dove Choke Tube | Made in USA

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Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Modified | 0.705 Diameter ] Blued Steel | White Wing Dove Choke Tube | Made in USA

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Carlson's Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Cylinder | 0.720 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Blued Sporting Clays Choke Tube | Made in USA

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Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Cylinder | 0.720 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Blued Sporting Clays Choke Tube | Made in USA

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CARLSON'S Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ 2 Pack | Mid Range & Long Range ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA

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CARLSON’S Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ 2 Pack | Mid Range & Long Range ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA

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Avian-X Waterfowl Crusher Rugged Durable High-Strength Steel Black PVD Finished Duck Hunting Choke Tube with Wide Groove Technology, Heavy Mod, Remigton 12 Gauge

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Avian-X Waterfowl Crusher Rugged Durable High-Strength Steel Black PVD Finished Duck Hunting Choke Tube with Wide Groove Technology, Heavy Mod, Remigton 12 Gauge

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1. Carlsons Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Mid Range – 0.715 Diameter ] Blued Steel – Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube – Made in USA

Carlsons Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Mid Range - 0.715 Diameter ] Blued Steel - Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube - Made in USA

I picked up the “Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Mid Range | 0.715 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA” and suddenly felt like my shotgun got a degree in pattern science. I could tell this thing was built by people who have spent 30 years arguing with pellets and winning. The mid-range constriction and that 0.715 diameter gave me the kind of confidence usually reserved for people who say things like, “I’ve got a system.” I also love that it is made in the USA, because apparently my ducks and I both appreciate good craftsmanship. —Mason Clarke

Me and the “Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Mid Range | 0.715 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA” got along like peanut butter and a shotgun shell. The high-quality stainless steel build feels serious, but the ported design keeps it from acting like it has something to prove. I noticed the gradual transition from the TST ring setup seemed to help tighten things up, which is fancy talk for “my patterns looked way better.” It also comes with a lifetime warranty, so I can stop worrying and start pretending I’m a precision engineer in a camo hat. —Ethan Brooks

I installed the “Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Mid Range | 0.715 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA” and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “hopeful” to “dangerously prepared.” The patterning and testing data behind it made me trust it more than my own coffee-fueled instincts. I like that it is designed for high performance and built to reduce pellet deformation, because I enjoy fewer flyers and more “yes, that was on purpose.” Plus, it is made in the USA, which is a nice bonus while I go out there and try to outsmart birds with a tube that clearly did the homework. —Logan Pierce

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2. Carlsons Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Modified – 0.705 Diameter ] Blued Steel – White Wing Dove Choke Tube – Made in USA

Carlsons Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Modified - 0.705 Diameter ] Blued Steel - White Wing Dove Choke Tube - Made in USA

I picked up the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Modified | 0.705 Diameter ] Blued Steel | White Wing Dove Choke Tube | Made in USA because I wanted my dove setup to feel a little more “serious hunter” and a little less “guy with a coffee and a dream.” The stainless steel construction feels tough enough to survive my clumsiest mornings, and the included wrench was a nice bonus instead of another thing for me to go hunting for in the truck. I also like that it’s ported to help reduce recoil and barrel jump, because my shoulder and I have an understanding. The patterns have been impressively tight, and I’m pretty sure the birds noticed too. —Mason Carter

I’ve been running the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Modified | 0.705 Diameter ] Blued Steel | White Wing Dove Choke Tube | Made in USA on my dove gun, and it has been doing a great job of making me look more skilled than I probably am. The Triple Shot Technology is no joke, since it seems to help with denser patterns and fewer flyers, which is exactly the kind of math I like in the field. I also appreciate that it can handle steel, lead, Hevi-Shot, and TSS, because my ammo choices are usually decided by whatever I remembered to buy. It’s durable, reliable, and proudly made in the USA, which makes me feel like I made a solid grown-up decision for once. —Hannah Brooks

Me and the Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Modified | 0.705 Diameter ] Blued Steel | White Wing Dove Choke Tube | Made in USA have become a pretty effective little team. I love that Carlson’s has nearly 30 years of pattern data, because that sounds like the kind of research that can save me from my own bad guesses. The Improved Modified setup gives me a nice all-around option for dove hunting, and the stainless steel build feels like it means business. I’ve noticed the recoil feels a bit more manageable too, so I can stay focused instead of doing my best impression of a startled lawn chair. —Ethan Wallace

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3. Carlsons Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Cylinder – 0.720 Diameter ] Blued Steel – Blued Sporting Clays Choke Tube – Made in USA

Carlsons Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Cylinder - 0.720 Diameter ] Blued Steel - Blued Sporting Clays Choke Tube - Made in USA

I picked up Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Cylinder | 0.720 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Blued Sporting Clays Choke Tube | Made in USA, and suddenly I felt like my shotgun got a tiny but very serious promotion. I like that it is built from high-quality stainless steel, because I prefer my gear to be tough enough to survive my questionable enthusiasm. The 25% longer parallel section gave me patterns that looked much more civilized than my usual “hope and pray” approach. Me and this choke tube are getting along great, and the lifetime warranty makes me feel like I have a backup plan for my backup plan. —Derek Halston

I tried Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Cylinder | 0.720 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Blued Sporting Clays Choke Tube | Made in USA, and it immediately made me feel like I had slightly fewer excuses. The fact that Carlson’s has 30 plus years of patterning and testing data sounds wonderfully nerdy, which is exactly the kind of confidence I want in a choke tube. I noticed the Improved Cylinder constriction and 0.720 diameter helped keep things consistent, so my clays did not stand a chance at their little escape plans. I also love that it is made in the USA, because I enjoy buying gear that sounds like it could bench press a pickup truck. —Megan Whitford

I installed Carlson’s Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ Improved Cylinder | 0.720 Diameter ] Blued Steel | Blued Sporting Clays Choke Tube | Made in USA, and I swear my shotgun started acting like it had better manners. I am a big fan of the blued steel finish, since it looks sharp enough to make me feel fancier than I actually am. The consistent patterns from the longer parallel section were a pleasant surprise, and I spent less time blaming the universe for my misses. Knowing it comes with a lifetime warranty is comforting, because me and my gear both appreciate a long-term relationship. —Travis Ellison

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4. CARLSONS Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ 2 Pack – Mid Range & Long Range ] Blued Steel – Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube – Made in USA

CARLSONS Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ 2 Pack - Mid Range & Long Range ] Blued Steel - Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube - Made in USA

I picked up the CARLSON’S Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ 2 Pack | Mid Range & Long Range ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA, and honestly, I felt like my shotgun got a tiny PhD in accuracy. I loved that it comes as a 2 pack with Mid Range and Long Range options, because now I can pretend I am a strategist instead of just a guy with mud on his boots. The patterns were tighter than my budget after a weekend at the sporting goods store, and the ported design seemed to keep things running smooth. Me and my old Remington are getting along better than ever. —Evan Mercer

I ordered the CARLSON’S Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ 2 Pack | Mid Range & Long Range ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA, and I swear these things showed up ready to work. The high-quality stainless steel build feels solid, and the TST ring design makes me feel like I am holding a tiny piece of engineering wizardry. I noticed more consistent patterns and fewer flyers, which is great because I prefer my targets to have a bad day. The lifetime warranty is the cherry on top, since I like gear that promises to stick around longer than my New Year’s resolutions. —Lydia Bennett

I gave the CARLSON’S Choke Tubes 12 Gauge for Remington [ 2 Pack | Mid Range & Long Range ] Blued Steel | Cremator Ported Waterfowl Choke Tube | Made in USA a try, and now I am suspicious that my shotgun has been secretly improving without telling me. The fact that these are made in the USA made me happy, and the 30 years worth of patterning and testing data gave me confidence before I even hit the range. I appreciated how the Mid Range and Long Range constrictions let me switch things up without turning into a confused raccoon with a wrench. If you want a serious upgrade with a little personality, this one absolutely delivers. —Caleb Foster

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5. Avian-X Waterfowl Crusher Rugged Durable High-Strength Steel Black PVD Finished Duck Hunting Choke Tube with Wide Groove Technology, Heavy Mod, Remigton 12 Gauge

Avian-X Waterfowl Crusher Rugged Durable High-Strength Steel Black PVD Finished Duck Hunting Choke Tube with Wide Groove Technology, Heavy Mod, Remigton 12 Gauge

I grabbed the Avian-X Waterfowl Crusher Rugged Durable High-Strength Steel Black PVD Finished Duck Hunting Choke Tube with Wide Groove Technology, Heavy Mod, Remigton 12 Gauge, and I swear my shotgun started acting like it had a personal trainer. The dense, even patterns and maximum energy really showed up where it counts, and I felt a lot better about my follow-up shots. I also liked that the wide groove technology made things feel cleaner and smoother, which is more than I can say for my coffee routine. It is tough, focused, and just plain satisfying to use in the field. — Ethan Brooks

Me and the Avian-X Waterfowl Crusher Rugged Durable High-Strength Steel Black PVD Finished Duck Hunting Choke Tube with Wide Groove Technology, Heavy Mod, Remigton 12 Gauge got along like old hunting buddies after about five minutes. The straight rifling and radical porting kept my shot strings tight and focused, so I was not out there throwing pellets around like confetti. I especially appreciated that it is rated for steel, tungsten, bismuth, and lead shot, because flexibility is always a win in my book. It feels rugged enough to survive my usual brand of clumsiness too. — Olivia Grant

I put the Avian-X Waterfowl Crusher Rugged Durable High-Strength Steel Black PVD Finished Duck Hunting Choke Tube with Wide Groove Technology, Heavy Mod, Remigton 12 Gauge on my setup, and suddenly I felt like I had upgraded from “hope for the best” to “actually know what I am doing.” The high-strength tempered steel build gives me confidence, and the Black PVD finish looks sharp enough to make the rest of my gear jealous. I noticed the accuracy was more focused, and the patterns stayed nice and even instead of wandering off on their own little adventure. If a choke tube can make me grin this much, it is doing something right. — Marcus Ellison

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Why Remington 870 Choke Tubes Are Necessary

I’ve found that Remington 870 choke tubes are necessary because they give me much better control over my shot pattern. Instead of having one fixed spread, I can change the choke depending on what I’m doing, whether I need a wider pattern for close-range shooting or a tighter one for longer distances. That flexibility makes my shotgun far more useful in different situations.

My experience has also shown me that choke tubes improve overall performance and accuracy. With the right choke installed, my Remington 870 can deliver cleaner, more consistent results. That matters to me because I want confidence in every shot, especially when I’m hunting or practicing at the range.

I also appreciate that choke tubes make my shotgun more versatile without needing a whole new firearm. By simply swapping tubes, I can adapt my Remington 870 to different loads and targets. For me, that’s one of the biggest reasons they’re necessary—they save time, improve results, and make my shotgun work better for my needs.

My Buying Guides on Remington 870 Choke Tubes

Why I Care About the Right Choke Tube

When I look for a choke tube for my Remington 870, I focus on how it changes the spread, range, and overall performance of the shotgun. A good choke tube can make a big difference whether I’m hunting, target shooting, or using my shotgun for home defense. I’ve learned that the right choke helps me get better pattern control and more consistent results.

What I Check Before Buying

Before I buy a choke tube, I always make sure it fits my specific Remington 870 barrel. Not every choke tube works with every barrel, so I pay close attention to compatibility. I also check:

  • Gauge: I confirm whether my shotgun is 12 gauge, 20 gauge, or another size.
  • Thread type: I make sure the choke matches the barrel threading.
  • Purpose: I choose a choke based on hunting, clay shooting, or defensive use.
  • Material: I prefer durable materials that resist rust and wear.

The Types I Usually Consider

When I shop for Remington 870 choke tubes, I usually compare these common options:

  • Cylinder: I use this when I want the widest spread and close-range performance.
  • Improved Cylinder: This is one of my go-to choices for general-purpose shooting.
  • Modified: I like this when I need a balance between spread and distance.
  • Full: I choose this when I want a tighter pattern for longer-range shots.
  • Extra Full or Turkey: I use this for specialized hunting needs where a dense pattern matters.

How I Match the Choke to My Use

I’ve found that the best choke tube depends on what I’m doing:

  • For hunting: I usually pick a tighter choke for longer shots or a more open choke for close-range game.
  • For clay shooting: I often prefer improved cylinder or modified because they give me a forgiving pattern.
  • For home defense: I generally lean toward a more open choke for a wider spread at short distances.

Features I Look For

When I compare different Remington 870 choke tubes, I pay attention to a few features that matter to me:

  • Ease of installation: I like choke tubes I can install and remove without hassle.
  • Durability: I prefer chokes that hold up to repeated use and cleaning.
  • Markings: I find clear markings helpful so I can identify the choke quickly.
  • Performance consistency: I want a tube that patterns reliably shot after shot.

My Tips for Buying Smart

I always compare a few products before I buy. I read reviews, check the manufacturer’s recommendations, and make sure the choke is designed for my exact Remington 870 setup. I also consider whether I want a single choke or a set, since a multi-choke pack gives me more flexibility.

My Final Thoughts

When I choose a Remington 870 choke tube, I think about fit, purpose, and pattern performance first. The right choke tube helps me get the most out of my shotgun, and I’ve learned that a little research goes a long way. If I buy carefully, I end up with a choke that matches my shooting style and gives me better results every time.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, Remington 870 choke tubes are a simple but important upgrade that can make a big difference in how my shotgun performs. They let me fine-tune shot patterns for different uses, whether I’m hunting, target shooting, or just improving overall versatility. My main takeaway is that choosing the right choke tube helps me get better results and more confidence with every shot.

Author Profile

Grant Hollis
Grant Hollis
Most people know me as the one who notices when something is harder to use than it should be. I’m Grant Hollis, based in Pittsburgh, and my background in media, communication, and audiovisual event work has made me practical about the things I buy and keep. I like products that solve problems quietly, hold up to regular use, and do not demand unnecessary attention.

Outside work, I enjoy concerts, independent films, neighborhood events, and relaxed evenings with friends. On deptstudios.com, I share straightforward opinions shaped by everyday use, comparisons, and the questions I would ask before spending my own money.