Table of Contents

Remington 870 Breacher: A Comprehensive Guide to Tactical Entry

The Remington 870 Breacher is a specialized shotgun designed for breaching doors in tactical situations. Law enforcement, military personnel, and security professionals rely on this tool for its effectiveness and reliability in gaining rapid entry. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Remington 870 Breacher, covering its features, applications, and considerations for use.

Understanding the Remington 870 Lineage

Before diving into the specifics of the Remington 870 Breacher, it’s important to understand the history and reputation of the Remington 870 shotgun platform. The Remington 870 is one of the most popular and widely used pump-action shotguns in the world, known for its durability, versatility, and relatively low cost. Introduced in 1950, it quickly became a favorite among hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement agencies. The 870’s simple design, robust construction, and smooth action have contributed to its enduring success. [See also: Remington 870 Upgrades and Accessories]

Key Features of the Remington 870 Breacher

The Remington 870 Breacher distinguishes itself from standard 870 models through several key features that make it specifically suited for breaching operations:

Short Barrel: Typically, the Remington 870 Breacher features a very short barrel, often around 12.5 inches. This compact size enhances maneuverability in tight spaces, such as hallways and doorways. The shorter barrel also makes the shotgun easier to handle during dynamic entries.
Muzzle Brake/Breaching Device: The most distinctive feature is the specialized muzzle brake or breaching device. This device is designed to allow the shotgun to be safely pressed against a door without damaging the barrel or causing excessive recoil. It often features serrated edges or stand-offs that grip the door and help direct the force of the breaching round.
Pistol Grip: Many Remington 870 Breacher models come equipped with a pistol grip, which provides enhanced control and stability, especially when firing in unconventional positions. Some models may also feature a collapsing stock for added versatility.
Durable Finish: Given the demanding environments in which breaching operations take place, the Remington 870 Breacher typically features a rugged, corrosion-resistant finish, such as Parkerizing or Cerakote.
Ghost Ring Sights: Some models include ghost ring sights for faster target acquisition in close-quarters combat situations. These sights allow for quick and intuitive aiming, which is crucial during dynamic entries.

The Role of the Breaching Round

The Remington 870 Breacher is designed to be used with specialized breaching rounds. These rounds are engineered to deliver a concentrated impact that will break door locks, hinges, or other weak points without causing excessive collateral damage. Common types of breaching rounds include:

Frangible Rounds: These rounds are made from a soft, easily fragmented material, such as powdered metal or polymer. Upon impact, they disintegrate into small particles, minimizing the risk of ricochet or over-penetration. Frangible rounds are often preferred for breaching interior doors or doors with unknown construction.
Slug Rounds: Some operators use standard shotgun slugs for breaching, although this is less common due to the increased risk of over-penetration and collateral damage. When using slugs, careful consideration must be given to the door’s construction and the surrounding environment.

Tactical Applications of the Remington 870 Breacher

The Remington 870 Breacher is primarily used in tactical situations where rapid entry is required. These situations include:

Law Enforcement Operations: SWAT teams and other law enforcement units use the Remington 870 Breacher to gain entry during raids, warrant executions, and hostage rescues. The shotgun’s breaching capabilities allow officers to quickly overcome barricades and gain access to buildings or rooms.
Military Operations: Military personnel use the Remington 870 Breacher for similar purposes in combat environments. Breaching is often necessary to clear buildings, secure compounds, or gain access to enemy positions.
Security Operations: Security professionals, such as those working in private security or executive protection, may use the Remington 870 Breacher to secure perimeters, breach doors, or respond to security threats.

Safety Considerations When Using the Remington 870 Breacher

Using the Remington 870 Breacher requires careful attention to safety protocols. Breaching operations can be inherently dangerous, and the improper use of a breaching shotgun can lead to serious injury or death. Key safety considerations include:

Proper Training: Operators must receive comprehensive training in the safe and effective use of the Remington 870 Breacher. This training should cover topics such as weapon handling, breaching techniques, round selection, and risk assessment.
Protective Gear: Operators should wear appropriate protective gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and body armor. Breaching operations can generate loud noise, flying debris, and other hazards.
Target Identification: Before breaching a door, operators must carefully identify the target and ensure that there are no innocent bystanders in the vicinity. Breaching rounds can penetrate walls and cause injury to anyone nearby.
Clear Communication: Effective communication is essential during breaching operations. Operators should use clear and concise language to communicate their actions and intentions to other team members.
Post-Breach Procedures: After breaching a door, operators must follow established post-breach procedures to secure the area and mitigate any potential threats. This may involve clearing the room, providing medical aid, or gathering intelligence.

Maintenance and Care of the Remington 870 Breacher

Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the reliability and longevity of the Remington 870 Breacher. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help prevent malfunctions and keep the shotgun in optimal working condition. Key maintenance tasks include:

Cleaning: The Remington 870 Breacher should be cleaned after each use, or at least on a regular basis. This involves disassembling the shotgun, cleaning the barrel, receiver, and other components, and removing any fouling or debris.
Lubrication: After cleaning, the Remington 870 Breacher should be lubricated with a high-quality gun oil. This will help prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
Inspection: The Remington 870 Breacher should be inspected regularly for any signs of damage or wear. This includes checking the barrel, receiver, stock, and other components for cracks, dents, or other defects.
Storage: When not in use, the Remington 870 Breacher should be stored in a secure location, away from unauthorized access. It is also important to store the shotgun in a dry environment to prevent corrosion.

Alternatives to the Remington 870 Breacher

While the Remington 870 Breacher is a popular and effective breaching tool, there are other options available. These alternatives include:

Other Breaching Shotguns: Several other manufacturers produce shotguns specifically designed for breaching, such as the Mossberg 590A1 and the Benelli M4. These shotguns offer similar features and capabilities to the Remington 870 Breacher.
Hydraulic Breaching Tools: Hydraulic breaching tools use hydraulic pressure to force open doors. These tools are often quieter and more precise than breaching shotguns, but they can be slower to deploy.
Explosive Breaching: Explosive breaching involves using small explosive charges to blow open doors. This method is the fastest and most forceful, but it is also the most dangerous and should only be used by highly trained personnel.
Mechanical Breaching Tools: These tools include battering rams, pry bars, and sledgehammers. They require physical force to breach doors and are often used in situations where noise is a concern.

The Future of Breaching Technology

Breaching technology is constantly evolving, with new tools and techniques being developed to improve efficiency and safety. Some emerging trends in breaching technology include:

Smart Breaching Systems: These systems use sensors and computer algorithms to assess the construction of a door and determine the optimal breaching point. This can help minimize collateral damage and improve the speed of entry.
Robotic Breaching Platforms: These platforms use robots to perform breaching operations remotely, reducing the risk to human operators. Robots can be equipped with breaching tools, cameras, and other sensors to provide real-time situational awareness.
Non-Lethal Breaching Tools: These tools use non-lethal methods to breach doors, such as high-pressure water or sonic waves. This can help minimize the risk of injury to innocent bystanders.

Conclusion

The Remington 870 Breacher is a valuable tool for law enforcement, military personnel, and security professionals who need to gain rapid entry in tactical situations. Its compact size, specialized muzzle brake, and durable construction make it well-suited for breaching doors and overcoming barricades. However, using the Remington 870 Breacher requires careful attention to safety protocols and proper training. With the right training and equipment, the Remington 870 Breacher can be an effective and reliable tool for gaining access in a variety of tactical scenarios. The effectiveness of the Remington 870 Breacher is well-documented, and its continued use underscores its importance in modern tactical operations. The Remington 870 Breacher remains a staple in breaching kits worldwide, a testament to its design and utility. The Remington 870 Breacher offers a reliable and robust solution for breaching needs. [See also: Choosing the Right Breaching Shotgun]