A Look Back at a Legend
The Remington 870’s story began in the mid-twentieth century. Introduced by Remington Arms in the early nineteen fifties, the Model 870 quickly gained traction and popularity. Its innovative design, incorporating a robust receiver and a simple yet effective pump-action mechanism, set it apart from its predecessors. It wasn’t long before this shotgun began to establish itself as a workhorse, favored by hunters, law enforcement officers, and civilians alike. The 870’s enduring success can be attributed to its inherent reliability, its adaptability, and its relatively affordable price point, especially the Express model. The enduring design, updated over the decades, continues to resonate with shooters seeking a versatile and trustworthy firearm. The 870 has, quite literally, become an American icon.
Unveiling Key Design Elements
The Remington 870 isn’t just a shotgun; it’s a collection of carefully considered components working together to create a cohesive and effective system. Understanding these components is critical to appreciating the gun’s strengths and limitations.
Core Components
At the core lies the receiver, typically constructed from steel. This sturdy foundation houses the action and provides the essential structural integrity of the firearm. The quality of the receiver is crucial to the shotgun’s longevity. Next, the barrel attaches to the receiver and comes in various lengths, each serving a specific purpose. For example, shorter barrels are common on home defense models, offering maneuverability in tight spaces, while longer barrels are usually found on hunting configurations, providing better shot patterns at greater distances. The choice of barrel length is, therefore, a critical one, directly impacting the intended use of the shotgun.
The choke is another critical element, located at the muzzle end of the barrel. Chokes control the spread of the shot, allowing for tighter patterns at longer ranges. Different chokes suit different applications. A fully choked barrel (tightest constriction) is suitable for hunting birds at a distance, while a cylinder choke (no constriction) offers a wider pattern for close-range engagements.
The magazine tube, often holding several rounds, offers firepower. The shell capacity varies depending on the model and any modifications. The stock and forend, crafted from either wood or synthetic materials, provide the user interface. The stock contributes to the weapon’s ergonomics and provides the necessary shoulder support for proper shooting. The forend enables the pump action, allowing the shooter to cycle the shells.
The Operating Principles
The pump-action mechanism is at the heart of the 870’s functionality. The user moves the forend backward, extracting the fired shell and cocking the hammer. Then, the user slides the forend forward, chambering a new round. This simple, intuitive, and mechanically robust system is known for its reliability, contributing significantly to the 870’s legendary reputation. The shell ejection and loading processes occur with each pump of the forend, offering a smooth and dependable system.
The Impact of Specifications
Several specifications influence the overall performance and handling characteristics. The weight is a factor to consider, especially for extended use. A heavier shotgun can mitigate recoil but might be less comfortable to carry in the field. Dimensions, particularly overall length, also impact maneuverability. The length is especially important when considering home defense applications where quick handling is crucial. The sighting system includes the bead sight on the barrel, or in tactical variants, there may be more elaborate setups like ghost ring sights or even optics, depending on the model and intended use.
How the 870 Performs in Action
The “Remington 870 Pump Action 12 Gauge Reviews” often highlight the shooting experience, focusing on key factors like recoil, accuracy, and trigger feel. The 12-gauge is known for its noticeable recoil, due to the substantial power of the shells. Proper technique, including a firm grip and a good stance, is essential to manage this recoil effectively. The shotgun’s accuracy depends on several factors, including the user’s skill, the choke installed, and the ammunition used. With practice, the 870 can deliver impressive accuracy. The trigger pull can vary between models, and some enthusiasts may choose to upgrade it for a lighter and crisper feel.
The 870 is generally renowned for its reliability and durability. The strong receiver, combined with the simple pump-action mechanism, makes it a dependable platform, capable of withstanding heavy use. While any mechanical device can experience issues, the 870 is built to resist malfunctions, and when they do occur, they are usually easily addressed. The overall durability of the Remington 870, assuming basic maintenance, is noteworthy.
Ease of use is a definite asset. Loading, unloading, and pumping are all straightforward processes. The ergonomics, in terms of balance and feel in the hand, are generally well-regarded, making the shotgun comfortable to handle. The sheer number of aftermarket accessories available for the 870 allows shooters to personalize the shotgun to fit their exact needs and preferences. This ability to customize, often mentioned in “Remington 870 Pump Action 12 Gauge Reviews,” contributes to its versatility and long-term value.
Exploring the Various Models
The Remington 870 lineup includes multiple models, each designed for a specific purpose. The Express model is generally regarded as the entry-level variant, often favored for its affordability. It’s a solid, reliable shotgun suitable for a wide range of applications. The Wingmaster is the premium version with a higher-grade finish and materials. This shotgun offers enhanced aesthetics and a more refined feel.
The Tactical model is specifically designed for home defense and tactical applications. Typically, these models feature shorter barrels, extended magazine tubes, and accessories like Picatinny rails for mounting lights and optics. Each model offers a specific blend of features, allowing the user to choose the best fit for their needs. Price comparisons between the various models reveal the cost of the upgrades, with the Wingmaster being the most expensive and the Express the most affordable.
The Balance of Advantages and Disadvantages
The Remington 870 possesses a clear set of advantages. Reliability is a standout feature, which contributes to its enduring popularity. The affordable price, especially for the Express model, makes it accessible to many shooters. The wide availability of parts and accessories, and the ease of maintenance, further enhance its appeal. The inherent versatility of the platform, allowing its use for hunting, home defense, and sport shooting, is another significant advantage.
However, it’s important to acknowledge the potential drawbacks. Some reviews have pointed out quality issues in recent production runs, emphasizing the importance of careful inspection. The 12-gauge recoil can be significant, and a poorly handled shotgun can cause discomfort or injury. The potential for rust, unless the weapon is meticulously cared for, requires consistent maintenance. The 870 might not be the best choice for complete beginners.
Comparisons Against the Competition
Comparing the Remington 870 to its competitors, like the Mossberg 500 or the Benelli Nova, offers valuable insights. The Mossberg 500 is often considered a direct competitor to the Express, with both shotguns offering similar functionality and affordability. The Benelli Nova is a more expensive option, usually built with higher-grade components. When considering value, the Remington 870, particularly the Express model, often comes out on top. The performance of all three shotguns is impressive; however, the differences in design and construction will appeal to varying preferences.
The Spectrum of Applications
The 870 is a versatile weapon. In hunting applications, the 12-gauge is suitable for a wide array of game, including waterfowl, upland birds, and deer. Appropriate barrel lengths and choke types are essential for optimal performance. For home defense, the 870 offers significant stopping power and reliability. The selection of the appropriate ammunition and modifications is critical for effective self-defense. It’s a popular choice in different sport shooting disciplines, such as trap and skeet.
How to Properly Care for Your 870
Maintenance is critical. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to ensure the 870 operates reliably. Preventing rust and corrosion involves routine cleaning, lubrication, and proper storage in a climate-controlled environment. The maintenance schedule should include a regular inspection of the gun and all its parts. A well-maintained 870 will deliver decades of service.
Feedback from Fellow Users
The common theme in countless “Remington 870 Pump Action 12 Gauge Reviews” is the shotgun’s reliability and durability. Owners often praise its straightforward design, which makes it simple to understand and maintain. The affordability of the Express model and the wide range of customization options are also recurring talking points. Some negative feedback focuses on quality control concerns and recoil, while others might point out specific aspects, like the trigger.
In Conclusion
The Remington 870 Pump Action 12 Gauge is a time-tested platform. Its enduring popularity is due to a well-deserved reputation for reliability, its versatility, and a good price point, particularly for the Express model. The 870 is an excellent choice for those seeking a dependable shotgun. It’s a practical option for hunting, home defense, and sport shooting. The ongoing “Remington 870 Pump Action 12 Gauge Reviews” continue to echo these sentiments, making it a solid recommendation for almost any shooter looking for a trustworthy shotgun.
The decision on any firearm should never be taken lightly. Always handle firearms with utmost safety and seek instruction from qualified professionals.
