3 Upgrades That Actually Matter For Your Bedside Shotgun (and the Drill Nobody Does)

Published on March 5, 2026
Duration: 14:30

This guide details essential upgrades for bedside shotguns, focusing on the Remington 870 platform. It emphasizes functional improvements like shell caddies, polished actions, and low-light optics over purely aesthetic modifications. The expert instruction highlights the importance of recoil reduction, preferred grip types (rifle vs. pistol), and the critical need for consistent training to maximize the effectiveness of any firearm setup.

Quick Summary

The top 3 essential upgrades for a bedside shotgun are a shell caddy for extra rounds, a polished action for smooth reloads, and a low-light optic like a red dot sight. Expert instruction emphasizes that training is paramount; accessories are secondary to proficiency.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Bedside Shotguns & Training Need
  2. 00:36Shotgun Features & Modifications Overview
  3. 01:00Essential Enhancements: Action Smoothing & Optics
  4. 01:53Magpul Stock & Foregrip Details
  5. 02:31Cerakote Coating Benefits
  6. 03:02Shell Caddy & Grip Comparison
  7. 04:17Second Shotgun: Breacher & Side Saddle
  8. 06:01Shell Caddy & Retention Tips
  9. 07:18Pistol Grip vs. Rifle Grip for Shotguns
  10. 09:09Buttstock Choices & Recoil Management
  11. 10:51Top 3 Essential Shotgun Upgrades
  12. 13:35Conclusion: Train, Don't Just Accessorize

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 3 essential upgrades for a bedside shotgun?

The top three essential upgrades for a bedside shotgun are a reliable shell caddy for extra rounds, a polished action for smooth and fast reloads, and a low-light optic like a red dot sight for confident aiming in dim conditions.

Why is a polished action important for a shotgun?

A polished action on a shotgun, like the Remington 870, ensures smoother feeding and ejection, significantly reducing the risk of malfunctions and allowing for faster, more reliable reloads, especially critical under stress.

Should I use a pistol grip or a rifle grip on my home defense shotgun?

For home defense shotguns, a traditional rifle grip is generally recommended over a pistol grip. Rifle grips offer better control and facilitate quicker, more efficient manipulation and reloading techniques, which are crucial in high-stress situations.

How does Cerakote benefit a bedside shotgun?

Cerakote coating provides crucial rust prevention for firearms like the Remington 870, protecting the steel components from corrosion. This is particularly important for shotguns kept in potentially humid environments, such as bedside tables, ensuring long-term reliability.

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