Introduction
The world of firearms presents a diverse array of tools, each meticulously crafted for specific purposes. Among these, the shotgun reigns supreme in its role as a versatile, powerful close-range weapon. The Remington 870, a name synonymous with reliability and dependability, has long held a prominent place in this arena. Within the 870 lineage, a special breed emerges: the 870 Marine Magnum. This variant stands apart, engineered to withstand the relentless challenges posed by corrosive environments. This review delves deep into the 870 Marine Magnum, providing an in-depth exploration of its features, performance capabilities, and overall suitability for demanding conditions.
From its inception, the Remington 870 earned its reputation as a workhorse. Its pump-action design, coupled with its robust construction, has made it a favorite among law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. The 870 Marine Magnum takes these core strengths and enhances them for specific applications, primarily those involving exposure to saltwater, humidity, and other factors that can cripple standard firearms. This review aims to be a comprehensive guide, helping you understand the strengths of this specific model and determine if it aligns with your requirements.
Design and Feature Overview: Built to Endure
The first encounter with the 870 Marine Magnum leaves a lasting impression. The visual signature is one of purposeful design and robust construction. The most noticeable feature is the overall appearance: the surfaces are finished to provide corrosion resistance. The metal surfaces are treated with a proprietary coating that resists rust and saltwater corrosion. This specialized treatment is the key feature that distinguishes the Marine Magnum from its standard counterparts. The overall aesthetic reflects the model’s intended use, where reliability is paramount.
Examination of the materials reveals a commitment to enduring functionality. The receiver and barrel are typically constructed from steel, known for its strength and durability. The critical components are coated to prevent the formation of rust. This proactive approach to corrosion resistance is central to the design. The stock and forend often utilize durable synthetic materials or can be constructed of corrosion-resistant wood, chosen for their ability to withstand the elements and provide a secure grip. The feel in hand is one of rugged practicality, without sacrificing comfort.
Key Features
Delving deeper, the 870 Marine Magnum boasts several key features that contribute to its performance and appeal. The pump-action system, a hallmark of the 870 platform, is known for its simplicity and reliability. This action cycles rounds smoothly and efficiently, making it a dependable choice in high-stress situations. The barrel length varies, but the Marine Magnum models are frequently found with shorter barrels, ideal for maneuverability. The choke options are typically cylinder bore or improved cylinder, allowing for a wide shot pattern at close range.
The stock and forend design play a crucial role in handling and control. Synthetic stocks are frequently chosen for their ability to resist moisture and provide a secure grip, even when wet. The forend is typically ergonomically designed to ensure easy and rapid cycling of the action.
Regarding sighting systems, the Marine Magnum often features a bead sight, although some variants may include rifle sights. The bead sight provides quick target acquisition at close ranges, making it well-suited for home defense or marine applications. The magazine tube capacity is typically a standard configuration, offering the capacity of four to five rounds plus one in the chamber, although some options might allow for more. Finally, essential features include sling swivels, enabling the easy attachment of a carrying strap. The trigger guard protects the trigger from accidental activation, adding to the overall safety of the firearm.
Performance and Reliability: A Champion in Challenging Environments
When evaluating a firearm, the true test lies in its performance under fire. The 870 Marine Magnum shines in this regard. The shooting experience is characterized by ease of operation and predictable recoil. The pump-action mechanism facilitates smooth and rapid follow-up shots, while the trigger pull is generally crisp and manageable. Recoil, while noticeable, is manageable, especially with proper shooting technique.
Accuracy is a key consideration. The 870 Marine Magnum is designed primarily for close-range engagements, and it excels in this role. At typical defensive distances, the shotgun provides excellent pattern density, ensuring that the intended target is hit. The size of the shot patterns at different distances is dependent on the choke used. With the cylinder bore, the shot spreads more rapidly, producing wider patterns at shorter distances.
The true measure of the 870 Marine Magnum lies in its performance under the harsh conditions it’s designed to face. Its resistance to rust and corrosion is truly impressive. The specialized coatings and materials employed in its construction effectively shield it from saltwater, humidity, and other environmental factors that can quickly degrade standard firearms. This makes it an ideal choice for boat owners, individuals living in coastal areas, or anyone seeking a reliable shotgun for challenging environments.
Reliability is a paramount consideration when selecting a defensive firearm, and the 870 Marine Magnum delivers on this front. The pump-action system is known for its inherent dependability, and the shotgun’s construction ensures continued function even after repeated exposure to moisture and saltwater.
The 870 Marine Magnum is compatible with a wide range of ammunition types. It can readily handle standard 2 ¾ inch and 3-inch shells. It’s adaptable to birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. This versatility allows the user to select the appropriate ammunition for the intended purpose.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Balanced Perspective
Like any firearm, the 870 Marine Magnum presents both advantages and limitations. Its strengths are significant, and they contribute to its appeal to a diverse group of users. The most significant advantage is its exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. This feature makes it an ideal choice for use in marine environments or areas with high humidity.
Reliability is another key strength. The pump-action mechanism is known for its dependable operation, and the shotgun’s robust construction ensures consistent performance even under adverse conditions. The design simplicity of the 870 Marine Magnum contributes to its ease of maintenance and cleaning, simplifying the owner’s ability to keep the shotgun in optimal condition. This is very important in environments that might otherwise degrade the performance of the shotgun. Finally, the availability of aftermarket parts and accessories allows for customization and further enhances the shotgun’s versatility.
The 870 Marine Magnum, however, is not without its weaknesses. The recoil, particularly when using heavier loads, can be substantial. The shotgun can sometimes be heavier than other options. Furthermore, some individuals may desire more modern features found in newer designs. While the 870 Marine Magnum is a reliable firearm, it does not have any of the latest features in newer shotgun designs, such as a magazine tube for more rounds or advanced optics.
Care and Maintenance: Preserving Performance
Proper maintenance is vital to keeping the 870 Marine Magnum in peak operating condition. Regular cleaning, particularly after use in a marine or humid environment, is essential to prevent corrosion. The best cleaning regimen involves disassembling the shotgun, cleaning the barrel, and removing any debris from the action.
A crucial step is applying a corrosion-inhibiting lubricant to all metal surfaces. Pay careful attention to the barrel, receiver, and internal components. There are a wide variety of excellent cleaning products that are ideal for the 870 Marine Magnum. Regularly check the firearm for signs of rust or corrosion, and address any issues promptly.
Suitable Users and the Bottom Line
The 870 Marine Magnum is best suited for users who require a reliable and durable shotgun for use in harsh environments. Boat owners, individuals living in coastal areas, and members of law enforcement or security personnel operating near water or in humid conditions will greatly benefit from the shotgun’s corrosion-resistant properties. Home defense is another ideal application for the 870 Marine Magnum, especially in areas with a risk of flooding or high humidity. The shotgun’s ease of use, combined with its reliability, makes it a user-friendly choice for both experienced shooters and those new to firearms.
In conclusion, the 870 Marine Magnum is a testament to the enduring design and functionality of the Remington 870 platform. The specialized design and features, including its corrosion-resistant coating, make it a dependable choice for those who need a shotgun that can withstand the challenges of marine or humid environments. It offers ease of maintenance, and the capacity to function in even the most challenging environmental conditions. The 870 Marine Magnum is a proven performer. If you are seeking a reliable, robust, and corrosion-resistant shotgun for harsh conditions, the 870 Marine Magnum is a solid choice that is designed to deliver consistent performance when you need it most.
