The Remington 870 Express Magnum is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability, versatility, and affordability. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and suitability for various applications, helping you decide if this classic firearm is the right choice for you. We'll cover everything from its history and design to real-world performance and common modifications. You'll find this 870 Express Magnum review invaluable whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer considering your first shotgun.
The History and Heritage of the 870 Express Magnum
The Remington 870's story began long ago, solidifying its place as a true American icon. Introduced in 1950, the 870 quickly gained popularity among law enforcement, hunters, and home defenders. Its robust design, simple operation, and proven reliability made it a favorite across the board. The "Magnum" designation signifies its capability to handle the powerful 3-inch magnum shells, expanding its versatility significantly. This ability to handle heavier loads makes it suitable for waterfowl hunting, where powerful shells are often necessary to cleanly harvest birds at longer ranges, as well as home defense situations where stopping power is paramount.
Design and Features: A Closer Look at the 870 Express Magnum
The Remington 870 Express Magnum's design is a testament to its enduring success. Its straightforward, robust construction makes for a reliable firearm with minimal points of failure. Key features include:
- Pump-Action Mechanism: The smooth, reliable pump action is a hallmark of the 870, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
- Durable Construction: The receiver and barrel are typically made from steel, ensuring durability and longevity, even under harsh conditions.
- Interchangeable Chokes: The interchangeable choke system lets you customize the shot pattern to match your specific needs (e.g., tighter chokes for long-range shots, open chokes for close-range situations).
- Modular Design: Numerous aftermarket accessories and upgrades are available, allowing you to tailor your 870 to your specific hunting or shooting preferences. This makes it a highly adaptable firearm.
- Ease of Maintenance: The 870 is relatively easy to disassemble and clean, ensuring proper maintenance and extending its lifespan.
Understanding Gauge and Shell Capacity
The Remington 870 Express Magnum is available in various gauges (12, 20, and sometimes even 28). The most common is the 12-gauge, known for its power. The "Magnum" designation indicates its compatibility with 3-inch magnum shells, offering increased shot payload and range compared to standard 2 ¾-inch shells. Typical magazine capacities vary depending on model and jurisdiction, but often range from 4 to 7+1 rounds.
Performance and Handling: Real-World Experience with the 870
The 870 Express Magnum is known for its reliable performance. Its simple design translates to minimal malfunctions, a crucial feature for any firearm, especially in critical situations. The pump-action mechanism is relatively quick and smooth, particularly after breaking-in. However, the recoil can be substantial, especially with magnum loads, requiring proper shooting technique and practice.
Many 870 users appreciate its balance and handling. Its weight contributes to stability, and the design allows for quick target acquisition. However, some find its weight to be cumbersome for extended periods of use. This largely depends on personal preference and the type of shooting involved.
Accuracy and Range
The accuracy of the 870 Express Magnum depends on several factors, including the choke used, the ammunition, and the shooter's skill. With a properly chosen choke and high-quality ammunition, the 870 is capable of impressive accuracy at reasonable ranges, making it effective for hunting and sporting clays. Magnum loads naturally extend the effective range compared to standard shells.
870 Express Magnum: Applications and Use Cases
The versatility of the 870 makes it appropriate for a broad range of applications:
- Hunting: A popular choice for hunting various game, from waterfowl and upland birds to deer (with appropriate slugs).
- Home Defense: Its stopping power and reliability make it a common choice for home defense, though legal considerations and local regulations should be carefully reviewed.
- Law Enforcement: Its durability and reliability have made it a staple in law enforcement agencies for decades.
- Sporting Clays: While not the ideal choice for high-level competition, the 870 can be used for recreational trap, skeet, and sporting clays shooting.
Common Modifications and Upgrades
Numerous aftermarket parts are available for the 870 Express Magnum, allowing for customization to meet individual needs. Popular modifications include:
- Ghost Ring Sights: Improved sights for faster target acquisition.
- Tactical Stocks: Enhanced stocks for better ergonomics and handling.
- Extended Magazines: Increased magazine capacity (always check local laws).
- Improved Chokes: Higher-quality chokes for improved shot patterns.
Price and Value: Is the 870 Express Magnum Worth It?
The Remington 870 Express Magnum is generally considered an excellent value for its price. Its durability, reliability, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for many shooters. However, it's important to consider the total cost, which may include the price of accessories and ammunition.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic
The Remington 870 Express Magnum is more than just a shotgun; it's a legacy. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its robust design, reliable performance, and widespread versatility. While it might not be the flashiest or most technologically advanced shotgun on the market, its proven track record and affordability make it a strong contender for anyone in the market for a pump-action shotgun. This 870 Express Magnum review provides a comprehensive overview to aid in your decision-making process. Remember always to handle firearms safely and responsibly and to familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations.