The Remington 870 Wingmaster is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability, durability, and versatility. This article focuses specifically on the models chambered for 2 3/4" shells only, exploring its features, uses, and why it remains a popular choice for both hunters and home defenders. We'll delve into what makes this specific configuration stand out and discuss its strengths and weaknesses.
Understanding the 2 3/4" Shell Restriction
The Remington 870 Wingmaster is available in various configurations, including those capable of firing both 2 3/4" and 3" shells. However, the 2 3/4" only variant holds a special place among enthusiasts. This restriction isn't a limitation for most users; rather, it's a deliberate design choice offering several advantages:
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Reduced Recoil: Firing shorter, lighter 2 3/4" shells results in less felt recoil, making the shotgun more comfortable for extended shooting sessions and novice shooters. This is particularly beneficial for younger shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
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Lighter Weight: The receiver and other components can be slightly lighter without the need to accommodate the larger 3" shells, making the overall shotgun more maneuverable. This is a significant advantage in close-quarters situations or when hunting in dense cover.
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Improved Reliability: Some argue that the simpler design of a shotgun chambered solely for 2 3/4" shells leads to improved reliability by reducing the complexity of the internal mechanisms. While anecdotal, this belief contributes to the shotgun's enduring reputation for dependability.
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Cost-Effectiveness: 2 3/4" shells are generally more readily available and less expensive than 3" shells, making this configuration a cost-effective choice for regular shooting.
The Remington 870 Wingmaster's Strengths
The Remington 870 Wingmaster's enduring popularity stems from a combination of factors:
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Reliability: The Wingmaster is famously robust and reliable. Its simple, robust design minimizes malfunctions, even under adverse conditions. This reliability makes it a trusted firearm for self-defense and hunting.
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Versatility: While the 2 3/4" only version limits shell length, it remains incredibly versatile. It can be effectively used for various purposes, including hunting small to medium-sized game, home defense, and even trap shooting with the appropriate choke.
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Customization: The Remington 870 Wingmaster has a vast aftermarket support system. Numerous accessories are available, from different stocks and forends to various chokes, allowing for significant customization to suit individual needs and preferences.
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Availability: The Remington 870 Wingmaster is widely available, making it easy to find, purchase, and acquire parts for maintenance or repairs.
Uses of the 2 3/4" Remington 870 Wingmaster
The 2 3/4" Wingmaster excels in several applications:
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Home Defense: Its reliability and manageable recoil make it suitable for home defense. The shorter barrel length (depending on the model) enhances maneuverability in confined spaces.
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Hunting: It's an effective shotgun for hunting various small to medium-sized game birds and upland game birds like quail, pheasants, and rabbits, using appropriate shot sizes.
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Law Enforcement: Although not as commonly seen as other models, it has been used in law enforcement, particularly in situations where reduced recoil is desirable.
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Sporting Clays (modified): With appropriate chokes, it can be adapted for some sporting clays events, though it may not be ideal for high-speed disciplines.
Comparing the 2 3/4" Only to 3" Chambered Models
| Feature | 2 3/4" Only | 3" Chambered |
|---|---|---|
| Recoil | Lower | Higher |
| Weight | Generally lighter | Generally heavier |
| Shell Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Versatility | Slightly less (limited shell length) | More (can use both 2 3/4" and 3" shells) |
| Reliability | Arguably higher due to simpler mechanism | Slightly more complex mechanism, but still very reliable |
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Remington 870 Wingmaster 2 3/4" Only
The Remington 870 Wingmaster chambered for 2 3/4" shells only remains a highly sought-after firearm. Its combination of reliability, manageable recoil, and versatility makes it an excellent choice for various applications. While the restriction to shorter shells might limit its use in some hunting scenarios, the advantages often outweigh this limitation for many shooters. For those prioritizing a manageable recoil, affordability, and the classic reliability of the Remington 870, the 2 3/4" only model is a strong contender. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences.