Firing Rifled Slugs in a Remington 870 (Rifled Barrel): Risks & Considerations

Question
Can I fire a rifled slug in a Remington 870 (rifled barrel).   I know I'll lose accuracy but I can't buy a box of magnum Sabots anywhere and deer opens Monday.

Thanks Ben

Answer
Hi Ben,

I personally would not do it but you can do so without any major concerns. The lead rifling (fins) on the slug will just compress some against the rifling of the shotgun bore. You more than likely will have some major lead fouling issues to deal with depending upon how many you shoot it. Also each manufactures slug diameters are going to vary a bit too. I doubt if you are going to find that you will get acceptable accuracy and if you do it will be at relatively short range.

I guess if there is no way for you to purchase and sight in with sabots...... you really have little option at this point. If it means being able to hunt opening day or not, I'd do it but keep in mind the limitations that I mention above.

Thanks for the question.
Sid Lark

Ben,

If legal where you hunt to use buckshot and you need to go that route, I would personally switch to the smooth barrel if possible.

Sid