Remington 870 Series: The Evolution of an Iconic Shotgun
- joe9838
- Oct 26, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: Feb 11
Few firearms have left as indelible a mark on shooting sports, home defense, and law enforcement as the Remington 870. Since its introduction in 1950, the 870 has evolved from a groundbreaking pump‑action shotgun into a comprehensive series of models that cater to an array of applications. In this guide, we’ll delve into the rich history, technical innovations, and key models of the Remington 870 series. By examining its design philosophy, evolution, and enduring reliability, you’ll gain a deep understanding of why this iconic shotgun continues to be celebrated—and why it remains a go‑to choice for hunters, home defenders, and law enforcement professionals alike.
The Remington 870 is more than just a shotgun—it’s a symbol of durability, reliability, and versatility. Over the decades, it has earned a reputation for its smooth cycling, robust construction, and ease of customization. Whether used for hunting, tactical applications, or home defense, the 870’s design has been refined and improved through numerous iterations, ensuring it meets the demanding needs of today’s shooters. This article will explore the evolution of the Remington 870, examine its key features and variants, and provide an in‑depth look at why it continues to be one of the most popular shotguns in the world.
Historical Background: A Legacy Since 1950
Inception and Early Success
Introduced in 1950 as a replacement for the Remington Model 31, the Remington 870 was designed by L. Ray Crittendon with a focus on simplicity, affordability, and rugged reliability. Its innovative dual action bar system provided a smooth and reliable cycling action that quickly set it apart from competing models. Over the decades, more than 11 million units have been sold, a testament to its enduring appeal and widespread acceptance.
A Changing Landscape
Throughout its history, the Remington 870 has adapted to meet evolving demands:
Law Enforcement and Military: Variants like the 870 Police Magnum and 870 Tactical have been widely adopted by police and military units around the globe for their ruggedness and dependable performance in the field.
Civilian and Hunting Use: Models such as the 870 Wingmaster and 870 Express have become favorites among hunters and competitive shooters for their balance of aesthetics, performance, and affordability.
Innovation and Modularity: The introduction of the 870 MCS (Modular Combat Shotgun) has showcased the platform’s adaptability, allowing users to quickly switch between configurations for breaching, close‑quarters combat, or extended-range shooting.
Design Philosophy and Technical Innovations
Dual Action Bars: The Heart of the 870
One of the most celebrated features of the Remington 870 is its dual action bar system. This innovative design uses two parallel bars to cycle the action smoothly:
Reliable Cycling: The dual bars work in unison to push the action open and closed, ensuring smooth and consistent operation even after thousands of rounds.
Reduced Jamming: This system minimizes the chance of binding or jamming—a critical factor in both defensive and tactical applications.
Ease of Maintenance: Fewer moving parts and a robust design contribute to the shotgun’s legendary reliability and ease of maintenance.
Durability and Rugged Construction
The 870 is built to last:
All‑Steel Receiver: Many models feature an all‑steel receiver, providing a sturdy platform that withstands rough handling.
Versatile Finishes: From the polished blue finish of the classic Wingmaster to the corrosion‑resistant nickel‑plated Marine Magnum, Remington has developed finishes that protect the firearm in diverse environments.
Field-Tested Reliability: Whether in extreme weather or during extended tactical operations, the 870 consistently delivers, a fact underscored by its long history of use by law enforcement and military units.
Modularity and Customization
A key strength of the Remington 870 is its modularity:
Interchangeable Parts: Users can easily swap barrels, stocks, and other components to tailor the shotgun to specific applications.
Aftermarket Support: With one of the largest aftermarket communities in the shotgun world, owners have access to a vast range of accessories—from custom stocks and triggers to upgraded sights and extended magazine tubes.
Versatility Across Applications: This modularity allows the 870 to be adapted for hunting, home defense, tactical operations, and competitive shooting.
Evolution and Key Models in the Remington 870 Series
Over its long history, the Remington 870 has spawned multiple variants. Here we highlight five key models that illustrate the evolution of this iconic shotgun.
Remington 870 Wingmaster
Overview: The Wingmaster is the original and arguably the most iconic variant of the 870 series. With its polished blue finish and high‑gloss walnut stock, it evokes the classic aesthetic of traditional shotguns while delivering modern performance.
Key Features:
Design: Traditional pump‑action mechanism with a refined, elegant finish.
Use Case: Ideal for hunting upland birds, waterfowl, and small game.
Performance: Smooth cycling action and a time‑tested design that continues to inspire confidence among hunters.
Remington 870 Express
Overview: The 870 Express offers a more budget‑friendly take on the classic design. It features a matte finish and synthetic stock, which lower production costs while preserving the core functionality of the 870.
Key Features:
Design: Durable construction with a focus on reliability and affordability.
Use Case: Versatile enough for hunting, target shooting, and home defense.
Performance: Delivers consistent performance in outdoor conditions with minimal maintenance.
Remington 870 Express Tactical
Overview: Aimed specifically at the tactical market, the Express Tactical model of the 870 is optimized for home defense and law enforcement use. It features a shorter barrel and an integrated rail system for mounting optics and accessories.
Key Features:
Design: Shorter barrel for enhanced maneuverability; includes a breaching choke and Picatinny rail.
Use Case: Home defense and tactical scenarios requiring rapid target engagement.
Performance: Combines the rugged reliability of the 870 platform with modern tactical enhancements.
Remington 870 Police Magnum
Overview: Built to higher specifications, the Police Magnum is designed for law enforcement. With upgraded metal parts, heavier springs, and a parkerized finish, it is engineered to endure the rigors of daily duty use.
Key Features:
Design: Robust construction with enhanced durability.
Use Case: Widely used in law enforcement and military applications where performance and reliability are paramount.
Performance: Offers heavier duty springs and reinforced components for prolonged, intense use.
Remington 870 Marine Magnum
Overview: The Marine Magnum is designed for extreme environments. Its nickel‑plated finish and synthetic stock provide exceptional resistance to corrosion, making it the shotgun of choice for marine use, camping, and harsh outdoor conditions.
Key Features:
Design: Corrosion‑resistant finish paired with a rugged synthetic stock.
Use Case: Ideal for boaters, campers, and anyone who needs a shotgun that can withstand saltwater, high humidity, or rugged terrain.
Performance: Proven durability in harsh conditions, with reliable cycling and performance in adverse environments.
Remington 870 MCS (Modular Combat Shotgun)
Overview: The 870 MCS represents the pinnacle of versatility in the 870 lineup. This modular system allows shooters to quickly change configurations—from breaching and close‑quarters combat to full‑length shotgun setups—making it a favorite among military and tactical professionals.
Key Features:
Design: Modular design with quick‑change barrel systems and customizable accessories.
Use Case: Military, tactical operations, and specialized home defense scenarios.
Performance: Provides the adaptability needed for rapidly changing combat environments.
The 870 vs. The Competition: A Classic Rivalry
No discussion of the Remington 870 is complete without comparing it to its primary competitor—the Mossberg 500. Both shotguns have earned legendary status, yet they offer distinct advantages.
Build Quality and Materials
Remington 870:
Known for its all‑steel receiver, which delivers a robust, durable platform.
Its traditional design has been refined over decades for maximum reliability.
Mossberg 500:
Typically uses an aluminum receiver, which makes it lighter but may not offer the same “solid” feel.
Favored for its ease of use and slightly quicker reloading due to design differences.
Safety and Ergonomics
870’s Cross‑Bolt Safety:
Located behind the trigger, providing a secure, intuitive safety mechanism.
Mossberg’s Tang‑Mounted Safety:
Positioned on the tang, which can be easier for left‑handed shooters.
Aftermarket Options:
Both shotguns enjoy robust aftermarket support, but the 870’s long history with law enforcement often leads to more customizable options.
Final Comparison
While both the 870 and the Mossberg 500 are excellent shotguns, the 870’s combination of durability, versatility, and a proven track record makes it a perennial favorite among a wide range of users—from hunters and competitive shooters to law enforcement and home defenders.
The Enduring Appeal of the Remington 870
Key Features That Stand the Test of Time
Dual Action Bars:
The hallmark of the 870, these bars provide a smooth, reliable cycling action that minimizes binding and jamming.
Modularity:
With interchangeable barrels, stocks, and accessories, the 870 can be easily customized for various applications. Whether you need a compact home defense shotgun or a precision hunting tool, the 870’s modularity ensures that it can be adapted to meet your needs.
Durability:
Models like the Police Magnum and Marine Magnum demonstrate the 870’s ability to withstand harsh conditions—be it the rigors of daily law enforcement use or the corrosive environments encountered at sea.
Aftermarket Support:
Few shotguns enjoy the extensive aftermarket options available for the 870. From custom stocks and barrels to enhanced triggers and optics mounts, the possibilities for personalization and performance upgrades are virtually endless.
Awards and Recognitions
Over the decades, the Remington 870 has received numerous accolades for its performance and innovation, including:
National Rifle Association (NRA) Golden Bullseye Award: Recognizing the 870 for its outstanding durability, reliability, and performance.
American Rifleman Editor's Choice Award: Consistently honored for its user-friendly design and dependable performance across various applications.
Why the 870 Remains an Icon
Proven Reliability:
With over 11 million units sold worldwide, the 870 has a track record that few shotguns can match. Its design has been honed over generations, and its continued evolution speaks to its enduring reliability.
Versatility:
Whether you’re hunting upland game, engaging in home defense, or serving in law enforcement, there is a 870 variant tailored to your needs. Its adaptability makes it one of the most versatile shotguns ever made.
Cultural Impact:
The Remington 870 has become synonymous with American shooting heritage. It is a favorite among collectors, professional shooters, and everyday enthusiasts, symbolizing decades of innovation and excellence in shotgun design.
Celebrating a True Classic
From its humble beginnings in 1950 to its modern iterations like the Express Tactical, Police Magnum, Marine Magnum, and Modular Combat Shotgun, the Remington 870 remains an iconic and indispensable tool in the world of shotguns. Its evolution is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of its designers and the enduring demand for a reliable, versatile, and customizable shotgun.
Key Takeaways:
The Remington 870’s dual action bar system and robust construction have made it a trusted choice for over 70 years.
Its evolution has produced variants that cater to a wide range of applications—from the elegant Wingmaster for hunting to the rugged Marine Magnum for extreme conditions, and the adaptable 870 MCS for tactical operations.
Modularity and aftermarket support ensure that the 870 remains a flexible platform that can be customized to meet changing needs and preferences.
The 870’s legacy is underscored by numerous awards and a proven track record with law enforcement, military, and civilian users alike.
For anyone who values reliability, versatility, and time‑tested performance, the Remington 870 series continues to be a benchmark in pump‑action shotguns. Its design, constantly refined over decades, not only honors its rich history but also embraces modern innovations that keep it relevant in today’s dynamic shooting environment.
Happy shooting, and may the Remington 870 serve you reliably and accurately for many years to come!
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