The Remington 870 Police Magnum is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability, versatility, and power. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and suitability for various applications, helping you determine if this classic shotgun is the right choice for you. We'll cover everything from its history and design to its strengths and weaknesses, making sure to include real-world user experiences.
The History and Legacy of the Remington 870
The Remington 870's legacy speaks for itself. First introduced in 1950, it quickly became a favorite among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. Its robust design, simple operation, and proven reliability have solidified its place as one of the most successful shotguns ever produced. The "Police Magnum" variant, specifically chambered for the powerful 12-gauge Magnum shells, further enhanced its capabilities for demanding situations. Its widespread adoption showcases its effectiveness and endurance.
Design and Features of the 870 Police Magnum
The 870 Police Magnum's design emphasizes functionality over frills. Its solid construction, built to withstand harsh conditions, contributes to its legendary durability. Key features include:
- Pump-Action Mechanism: The smooth, reliable pump-action mechanism is crucial for rapid follow-up shots. Its simple design minimizes malfunctions, a critical factor in high-pressure situations.
- 12-Gauge Magnum Chamber: This allows the use of high-powered Magnum shells, significantly increasing stopping power and effective range compared to standard 12-gauge.
- Heat Shield: Many models include a heat shield to protect the shooter's hand from the hot barrel during rapid firing.
- Interchangeable Chokes: The ability to change chokes allows for customization of the shot pattern, making it suitable for various applications, from close-quarters combat to long-range target shooting. Common chokes include cylinder bore, improved cylinder, modified, and full choke.
- Durable Finish: Typically featuring a durable matte black finish, the 870 Police Magnum is resistant to corrosion and wear.
Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3" Magnum |
| Action | Pump-Action |
| Barrel Length | Varies (typically 18.5" to 20") |
| Capacity | Varies (depending on model and local laws) |
| Weight | Varies (depending on barrel and features) |
| Finish | Matte Black (typically) |
Performance and Handling of the 870 Police Magnum
The 870 Police Magnum's performance is a key reason for its enduring popularity. Its reliability is unparalleled, making it a trustworthy firearm in any situation. The powerful Magnum shells provide significant stopping power, making it effective for home defense, hunting, and law enforcement.
However, the recoil can be substantial, especially with heavier Magnum loads. This needs to be considered, especially for novice shooters. Proper shooting techniques and recoil reduction strategies (like a good recoil pad) are vital for comfortable and controlled shooting.
Applications of the 870 Police Magnum
The versatility of the 870 Police Magnum makes it suitable for a wide range of applications:
- Home Defense: Its stopping power and reliability make it a popular choice for home defense.
- Law Enforcement: It has a long history of service in law enforcement agencies worldwide.
- Hunting: While not ideal for all hunting situations, it's suitable for certain types of hunting, particularly waterfowl and close-range big game hunting (depending on local regulations and ethical considerations).
- Competition Shooting: Some variants are used in various shooting competitions.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Reliability: Legendary for its reliability and minimal malfunctions.
- Power: The Magnum chamber provides substantial stopping power.
- Versatility: Suitable for various applications.
- Durability: Built to withstand harsh conditions.
- Simplicity: Easy to learn and operate.
Disadvantages:
- Recoil: Can be substantial with heavier Magnum loads.
- Weight: Can be heavy for extended carrying.
- No Ambidextrous Safety: The safety is not ambidextrous, making it less convenient for left-handed shooters.
User Reviews and Feedback
Real-world user reviews consistently praise the 870 Police Magnum's reliability and stopping power. Many users emphasize its simple operation and ease of maintenance. However, some users note the considerable recoil and the lack of an ambidextrous safety as drawbacks.
Conclusion: Is the 870 Police Magnum Right for You?
The Remington 870 Police Magnum remains a powerful and reliable shotgun with a rich history. Its strengths lie in its robust design, simple operation, and impressive stopping power. While the recoil can be significant, and it lacks some features found in more modern shotguns, its reliability and versatility make it a compelling choice for various applications. Whether it's right for you depends on your individual needs and shooting experience. Consider your intended use, your experience level, and your comfort with recoil before making a decision. Careful consideration of these factors will ensure that the 870 Police Magnum is a good fit for your specific requirements.