A Legacy of Reliability: The History of the 870
The story of the Remington 870 began in the mid-1950s. Remington, already a well-established name in the firearms industry, set out to design a pump-action shotgun that was both innovative and durable. They aimed to improve upon the competition and create a firearm that was not only reliable but also adaptable to various needs. The result, released in 1950, was the Model 870 Wingmaster.
From its inception, the 870 was engineered for widespread use. The design focused on a robust receiver, a smooth pump action, and a versatile design. This initial design targeted hunters, offering them a reliable tool for taking down game. The simple, yet effective, pump-action mechanism quickly became a hallmark of the 870. Its ease of use and consistent performance established its place as a workhorse of the sporting world.
Over the years, the Model 870 has undergone refinements and expansions, but the core principles of the original design have remained. Its enduring popularity speaks to its quality and efficiency. This evolution has led to different variants, including those specifically designed for law enforcement and, of course, for home defense. The success of the Model 870 can be attributed to its innovative design and ability to adapt to the needs of its user.
The Core Strengths: Why the 870 excels in Home Defense
The Remington Model 870 earns its reputation for home defense by offering a combination of features that are essential for protection. Understanding these strengths helps in appreciating why it has become a preferred choice for many homeowners.
One of the most crucial aspects of any home defense weapon is its ability to stop a threat effectively. Shotguns, in general, excel in this department, and the 870 is no exception. The wide spread of buckshot, the primary ammunition choice for defensive purposes, delivers a high number of projectiles per trigger pull. This high projectile count significantly increases the probability of hitting a target, and when those projectiles connect, their stopping power is immediate and substantial. This is particularly important in the high-stress situation of a home invasion, where quick incapacitation of an assailant can be a life-saving advantage. The sheer force delivered by even a single buckshot round is often enough to neutralize a threat.
Reliability is another key factor. In a moment of crisis, a firearm must function when it is needed most. The Model 870 is renowned for its reliability. The simple pump-action mechanism, while requiring the operator to actively cycle the action, also translates into fewer moving parts that are prone to malfunction. This straightforwardness is a significant advantage. It’s less likely to experience a jam or other mechanical failure, meaning that, if properly maintained, the gun is ready when it is needed.
Beyond these core features, the Model 870 is customizable. The aftermarket support for the 870 is extensive. This means that owners can personalize their shotguns to match their preferences and specific home defense needs. Everything from stocks and forends to sights and lights can be changed. Adding a weapon light greatly enhances the ability to identify threats in low-light conditions, which is common during a home invasion. The option to mount a red dot sight or other optical sighting system can also improve target acquisition speed and accuracy, especially in high-stress situations.
Finally, the psychological effect of a shotgun, especially the sound of a pump action, is often overlooked but can be invaluable. The racking of the slide can often deter an intruder before any shots are fired. The sound, especially when combined with a menacing appearance, makes it clear that the homeowner is armed and ready to defend their property. The 870’s presence in a home can be an effective deterrent.
Configuring Your 870 for Home Defense
Optimizing a Model 870 for home defense requires careful consideration of its configuration. Here are some key areas to focus on:
The barrel length plays a vital role in maneuverability and handling in the confines of a home. A shorter barrel, typically in the 18-to-20-inch range, is more manageable than a longer one when navigating hallways and rooms. It also provides a tighter shot pattern at close range. However, it is essential to be aware of any local laws regarding barrel length to ensure compliance.
The stock and grip also have a profound impact on how the shotgun handles. A traditional stock provides a solid platform for shouldering the weapon and aiming, which contributes to accuracy. However, in tight spaces, a pistol grip or a pistol grip with a short stock can offer enhanced maneuverability. These options allow for quicker transitions and the ability to point the weapon more readily. The choice between stock types often comes down to personal preference and the shooter’s physique.
Selecting the right sights is crucial for accurate target acquisition. Many Model 870s come with basic bead sights, which are adequate for close-range work. However, upgrading to ghost ring sights or even a red dot optic can significantly improve accuracy, especially in low-light conditions. Ghost ring sights offer a larger, more easily seen aperture, and red dots allow for quick target acquisition with both eyes open.
Adding accessories, such as a weapon light and a sling, can greatly enhance the effectiveness of the 870. A weapon light provides illumination, which allows the user to quickly identify potential threats and to see what is in front of the muzzle. A sling helps in carrying the shotgun when not in use, which allows the hands to be free for other tasks, and it also provides a means of retention if the weapon needs to be dropped or put to the side temporarily.
Ammo: Power for Protection
Choosing the right ammunition is critical for home defense. Understanding the different types of rounds and how they perform is crucial.
Buckshot is the most common and arguably the most effective choice for home defense. This ammunition is composed of multiple pellets, typically in sizes like 00 buck, 000 buck, or number 4 buck. The spread of these pellets at close range increases the chances of hitting the target and maximizes stopping power. The number of pellets varies with the size of the shot, with larger shot sizes containing fewer projectiles per shell, and smaller shot sizes, like number 4 buck, containing more pellets per shell.
Slugs, which are single, large projectiles, can also be used in home defense. Slugs deliver significant stopping power, but they are better suited for situations where longer-range accuracy is needed. This might include engagements across a larger property or open areas. However, slugs also increase the risk of over-penetration, so they need to be used with caution.
When choosing ammunition, it’s important to consider penetration and over-penetration. You want to select rounds that will stop a threat while minimizing the risk of bullets passing through walls and endangering others. Buckshot, particularly when fired in a smaller shot size, can limit over-penetration because the spread of the pellets will reduce the damage and range compared to slugs.
Responsibility: Training and Safe Practices
Owning a firearm comes with significant responsibility. Proper training and safe gun handling practices are non-negotiable.
Taking a dedicated defensive shooting course is highly recommended. Such courses provide valuable instruction on safe gun handling, marksmanship fundamentals, and the legal and ethical considerations surrounding the use of deadly force. You will learn how to quickly and safely access your firearm. You will also learn to operate your shotgun under the stress of a simulated defensive situation.
Safe storage is critical to prevent unauthorized access to the shotgun. The 870 should always be stored securely. This often involves storing the weapon in a locked safe, using trigger locks, or removing the bolt. This will protect children and other unauthorized individuals from accidental harm.
Maintaining your 870 properly involves regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure that it functions reliably. This includes disassembling the shotgun, cleaning the bore and action, and lubricating the moving parts. Regular inspection will identify potential problems before they become serious and cause malfunctions.
Balancing Advantages and Disadvantages
The Remington 870 provides several advantages for home defense. It is reliable, offers substantial stopping power, is highly customizable, and is affordable. However, it is not without its drawbacks.
The recoil from a shotgun can be significant, especially with heavy loads. It has a limited capacity, typically holding five to eight rounds, depending on the configuration. Its effective range is relatively short compared to a rifle or handgun. Also, there is a learning curve associated with mastering the pump-action mechanism, and training and practice are essential.
Considering Alternatives
While the Model 870 remains a solid choice, other options exist for home defense.
Semi-automatic shotguns offer faster follow-up shots and reduced recoil compared to pump-action shotguns. However, they tend to be more expensive and can be less reliable.
Handguns provide greater concealability and are easy to carry around. However, they also have less stopping power and a lower capacity than a shotgun.
Rifles, particularly AR-15 style rifles, offer impressive accuracy and range. They also benefit from a wide variety of available accessories. However, rifles require more training to use safely, and their higher power presents a greater risk of over-penetration.
A Trusted Choice for Your Home
The Model 870 Home Defense shotgun remains a popular and effective option for homeowners who want to protect their families. Its reliability, stopping power, and customization options make it a well-rounded choice for protecting your home. The responsibility of firearm ownership requires careful training, safe storage practices, and a thorough understanding of the law. However, for those who are willing to take those steps, the Model 870 can be a trustworthy guardian of your home.
