A Legacy of Reliability: Understanding the Remington 870
The Remington 870 is more than just a shotgun; it’s an American icon. First introduced to the world, this pump-action shotgun quickly earned a reputation for ruggedness, versatility, and dependability. It became a favorite of law enforcement agencies, hunters, and target shooters alike. The 870’s simple, robust design, featuring a solid steel receiver, and smooth, reliable action, made it incredibly popular. Over the years, Remington produced countless variations of the 870, including the Wingmaster (the classic blued-steel model), the Express (a more economical version), and specialized models tailored for different purposes. Its enduring popularity stems from its ability to perform in diverse environments and under challenging conditions. This long history of excellence has solidified its position as a cornerstone of the shooting world.
This widespread adoption is thanks to its reliability, its ability to function reliably in all weather conditions, and its ease of maintenance. The 870 became synonymous with the term “American Made,” and the model remains a top choice for hunting and sporting applications to this day. For turkey hunters, the 870 has long been a trusted choice, offering the power and precision needed to bag a mature gobbler.
What Makes a Turkey Gun Special?
Turkey hunting demands a specialized approach, and that extends to the equipment. A dedicated turkey gun is more than just any old shotgun. It is built to optimize performance in the challenging field of turkey hunting. Here are some key features that define a turkey gun:
First, a good turkey gun often features a camouflage finish. Turkeys have excellent eyesight, and blending into the surroundings is crucial for getting close enough for a shot. Camouflage patterns disrupt the outline of the gun, helping it disappear against the backdrop of the woods.
Second, turkey guns are generally designed to accommodate interchangeable choke tubes. A tight choke is essential for achieving dense patterns at the extended ranges common in turkey hunting. Chokes allow hunters to tune the shot spread to the specific ammunition and distances they are shooting.
Third, many turkey guns feature a mounting rail or drilled and tapped receiver for mounting optics. The ability to mount a red dot sight or scope can dramatically improve accuracy, especially at longer distances.
Fourth, the stock and forend are often designed for comfort and maneuverability. Hunters often spend hours in a static position, and a comfortable, ergonomic stock is a major advantage.
The Remington 870 for Turkey Hunting: Embracing the 3 1/2-Inch Shell
The Remington 870 has long been a popular choice for turkey hunting, and several models have been specifically designed or modified for this purpose. However, it is the models chambered for the powerful 3 1/2-inch shell that truly elevate the 870 to its full turkey-slaying potential.
The 3 1/2-inch shell delivers a significant increase in payload compared to the standard 2 3/4-inch or 3-inch shells. This translates to more pellets on target at longer ranges, increasing the odds of a clean and ethical kill. It’s important to realize that the longer range potential of this shell does not make up for any sort of lack of hunting or fieldcraft skills. You will still need to scout, hide, and call the bird into your range.
A crucial part of selecting a 870 turkey gun is confirming the model is designed to handle 3 1/2-inch shells. This feature allows hunters to reach out and touch gobblers at distances that would be impossible with standard shells. The added power does come with an increase in recoil, so shooters must be prepared for a more pronounced kick. However, the benefits of the 3 1/2-inch shell in terms of range and pattern density often outweigh this consideration, especially for those hunting open areas where longer shots are common.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing Your 870 Turkey Gun
Choosing the right Remington 870 for turkey hunting involves carefully considering several key features:
Choke Tubes
The choke tube is arguably the most important part of any turkey gun. The choke constricts the shot column as it leaves the barrel, creating a tighter, more concentrated pattern. This is essential for achieving a dense pattern at the ranges necessary for ethical turkey hunting. Many turkey guns are equipped with extended, screw-in chokes designed specifically for turkey loads. Look for a choke tube that is optimized for 3 1/2-inch shells and the type of shot you plan to use (e.g., lead, tungsten).
Sights and Optics
Sights and optics play a huge role in accuracy. Iron sights are functional, but a red dot sight or low-power scope can significantly enhance your ability to aim accurately, especially at longer ranges. Look for a shotgun with a drilled and tapped receiver or a pre-installed Picatinny rail for easy optic mounting.
Stock and Fore-end
The stock and fore-end are critical for comfort and ergonomics. Look for a stock that fits you properly and allows you to shoulder the gun quickly and naturally. A pistol grip stock can improve control, and a comfortable fore-end allows for a solid grip, even in wet conditions. Many turkey guns feature synthetic stocks and fore-ends, which are durable and resistant to the elements.
Camouflage
Camouflage is not just for looks; it is a critical tool for success. The best camouflage pattern for your hunting area depends on the specific environment. However, patterns that mimic the colors and textures of the woods are generally ideal. Ensure the entire gun, including the barrel, receiver, and stock, is covered in camouflage to minimize the chance of a turkey spotting you.
Ammunition Matters: Selecting the Right Load
The 3 1/2-inch shell opens up a wide range of ammunition choices for turkey hunting. However, the key to success is selecting the right shell for your gun and hunting conditions.
The shot size is crucial. The size of the pellets will impact the range and the density of the pattern. Generally, shot sizes in the range of four, five, or six are used. The best choice depends on the specific load, choke, and your effective range.
The type of shot also impacts performance. Lead shot is the most common and affordable, but it has limitations in terms of density and range. For maximum range and performance, consider shells loaded with denser shot materials, such as tungsten, bismuth, or other high-performance alloys.
When choosing ammunition, research different brands and loads to find the one that patterns best in your specific Remington 870. Always remember to consult your shotgun’s manual to ensure that it is compatible with the type of ammunition you are using.
Hunting Strategies: Putting Your 870 to Work
Equipped with your Remington 870 turkey gun and the right ammunition, it is time to hit the field. Here are some tips to help you increase your chances of bagging a gobbler:
Patterning Your Shotgun
First, pattern your shotgun. Go to the range and fire several shots at a turkey target at varying distances. This will allow you to determine the effective range of your gun and identify the densest part of the pattern.
Range Estimation
Second, accurately estimate range. Turkeys can be surprisingly difficult to judge distance. Use a rangefinder or practice judging distances in the field. Make sure that you know the range to your target, or you might miss a shot.
Scouting is essential. Spend time before the season scouting for turkeys. Identify their roosting areas, feeding grounds, and travel routes. This knowledge will help you position yourself for success on opening day.
Calling can lure a gobbler within range. Learn to use a variety of turkey calls, including the box call, the slate call, and the diaphragm call. Experiment with different calling sequences to entice turkeys to approach.
Finally, concealment is critical. Turkeys have excellent eyesight. Choose your setup carefully, ensuring you are well-concealed with natural cover or a ground blind. Remain as still as possible, especially when a turkey is approaching.
Caring for Your Investment: Maintenance and Upkeep
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring your Remington 870 continues to function reliably for many years.
Regular cleaning is necessary after each use. Disassemble the gun and clean the barrel, action, and other parts thoroughly. Use a quality gun cleaner and lubricant.
Inspect the gun regularly for wear and tear. Check the choke tube, sights, and other components. Replace any worn or damaged parts.
Store your Remington 870 in a safe, dry place. Use a gun case or rack to protect it from damage.
Considerations: Are There Other Options?
While the Remington 870 has a long history and a large following, other options exist. The Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag offers a similar price point and can also take the 3.5″ shell. There are also semi-automatic shotguns in the turkey hunting space, which can offer a lower-recoil shooting experience.
Ultimately, the best turkey gun is the one that fits you best and performs reliably.
Conclusion: Your Path to Turkey Hunting Triumph
The Remington 870, chambered for the 3 1/2-inch shell, is a formidable weapon for turkey hunting. With its robust design, proven reliability, and the increased power of the 3 1/2-inch shell, this shotgun provides the tools you need to succeed in the turkey woods. By understanding the 870’s features, choosing the right ammunition, and practicing your hunting skills, you will be well on your way to experiencing the thrill of a successful turkey hunt.
So, gear up, head into the woods, and let the Remington 870 3 1/2″ guide you to gobbler glory. The spring woods await!
Disclaimer: Always adhere to all local, state, and federal hunting regulations.
