Introduction
The gentle thud of the pump, the satisfying click as a shell is chambered, the anticipation building with every squeeze of the trigger. This is the experience that many people associate with the classic pump-action shotgun, a firearm synonymous with reliability and versatility. Among these iconic firearms, the Remington 870 stands tall, a legend in the world of shotguns. Its widespread popularity speaks volumes about its enduring design and dependable performance. This is especially true of the Remington 870 Express, known for its affordability and ease of use, and when chambered in the 20 gauge, it becomes an even more accessible and adaptable platform.
This article delves into the features, history, performance, and applications of the Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a homeowner seeking personal protection, or simply a shooting enthusiast, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into this remarkable shotgun. We’ll explore its capabilities, from its use in the field to its role in home defense, helping you understand why the Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge continues to be a favorite among shooters worldwide.
A Look Back: The Remington 870’s Storied Past
The story of the Remington 870 began in the mid-1950s. Remington Arms Company sought to create a successor to their Model 31 pump-action shotgun. The goal was to design a robust, reliable, and affordable shotgun that could compete with the then-dominant Winchester Model 12. Introduced in 1950, the Remington 870 quickly gained traction. Its innovative design, featuring a receiver machined from a solid steel billet, and a simpler, more robust operating system, helped it stand out.
The 870’s modular design also contributed to its success. Remington offered a wide array of barrel lengths, chokes, and stock options, making it adaptable to a variety of shooting needs. The shotgun’s popularity surged, and the 870 quickly became a staple for law enforcement, the military, hunters, and target shooters. The “Wingmaster,” the original high-grade version, set a high bar for quality.
The 870 has gone through many iterations and improvements over the years, but the core design has remained largely unchanged, a testament to its inherent excellence. Its reliability, easy maintenance, and affordability cemented its place as one of the most popular shotguns ever produced, and it continues to be a go-to choice for shooters around the globe.
Unveiling the Details: Features and Specifications of the 870 Express 20 Gauge
Let’s examine the key characteristics that make the Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge a standout firearm.
The 20-gauge designation is a significant starting point. This smaller gauge offers a lighter platform than its 12-gauge counterpart. The receiver of the Express model is typically made from steel, contributing to its overall durability. The pump-action mechanism is the heart of the 870’s operation, known for its smooth and reliable cycling. Pulling the slide back ejects the spent shell, and pushing it forward chambers a fresh round from the magazine tube.
Barrel lengths often range from 26 to 28 inches for sporting and hunting applications, though shorter barrels are available for tactical models. The magazine tube typically holds multiple shells, providing ample firepower. The stock, often constructed from either hardwood or synthetic materials, contributes to the overall feel and handling of the shotgun. The Express models usually have a matte black finish, adding a rugged and practical aesthetic.
The internals are designed for durability and ease of use. The extractor claw securely grips the rim of the shell for reliable ejection. The ejector is positioned for positive spent shell removal. These components work in concert to ensure smooth and consistent operation, shot after shot.
The Express model aims for affordability while maintaining functionality. This might mean using more economical materials in some areas, but the core components and mechanics of the Remington 870 are retained, ensuring the same legendary reliability.
Performance and Practical Considerations
The 20-gauge chambering offers a balanced performance profile. The recoil, while still present, is notably more manageable than a 12-gauge. This makes the 870 Express 20 Gauge a good option for shooters of all sizes, including youth and those sensitive to recoil. This reduced recoil also helps with quicker follow-up shots, making it more effective in hunting situations.
For hunting, the 20 gauge shines. It is well-suited for upland game birds, such as pheasant and grouse, where the lighter weight and maneuverability are valuable assets. It’s also perfectly capable of taking down small game, like rabbits and squirrels. The effective range depends on the ammunition used and the choke installed, but the 20 gauge can be accurate out to respectable distances, typically 30-40 yards, when paired with appropriate ammunition and a skilled shooter.
In the realm of home defense, the 870 Express 20 Gauge provides a compelling option. The lighter recoil makes it easier to control in stressful situations. With the right ammunition, it can deliver significant stopping power. The pump-action design can also act as a deterrent, as the sound of cycling the action can be enough to make an intruder think twice.
The inherent advantages of the 20-gauge round contribute to its appeal. The lighter weight of the shotgun, the milder recoil, and the availability of appropriate ammunition, make it an ideal choice for those who prioritize comfortable shooting and ease of handling.
Hunting, Home Defense, and Beyond: Applications of the 870 Express 20 Gauge
The Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge demonstrates its versatility across different fields.
Hunting remains a primary application. The 20 gauge is a fantastic choice for hunting various game. Hunters often favor it for upland bird hunting, where its lighter weight and maneuverability are an advantage when navigating dense cover. It can also be effective for hunting waterfowl, such as teal and wood ducks, using appropriate ammunition. Small game, such as rabbits and squirrels, are also within its capabilities. Hunters should always check and adhere to local regulations for the types of game they can hunt and the required ammunition.
In the home defense arena, the 870 Express 20 Gauge offers a viable option. Its ease of use, manageable recoil, and the availability of home defense-specific ammunition, like buckshot or specialized loads, make it a trusted tool for self-protection. The manual operation of the pump-action shotgun is considered to be extremely safe because the user must manually manipulate the action with each shot, preventing any possible mechanical failure which could cause an accidental discharge.
For recreational shooting, the 870 Express 20 Gauge is a pleasure to handle. Its manageable recoil makes it a comfortable shotgun to shoot for extended periods. The pump-action mechanism adds to the tactile enjoyment of shooting, giving the shooter more awareness of their actions.
Beyond these uses, the 870 Express 20 Gauge can be a suitable choice for training and introducing new shooters to the sport. Its simple operation and manageable recoil create a good foundation for learning safe gun handling skills.
Personalizing Your Shotgun: Customization and Accessories
One of the best things about the Remington 870 is the huge aftermarket. This makes it easy to customize it to your specific needs and preferences.
There is a wide variety of stocks and forends available, allowing you to customize the fit and feel of the shotgun. Wood stocks provide a classic aesthetic, while synthetic stocks are durable and weather-resistant.
Sights, from simple bead sights to ghost ring sights or even optics, can improve aiming. Choosing the right sights can greatly increase shooting performance.
Choke tubes, available in various constrictions, allow you to tailor the shot pattern to the specific target and distance. Interchangeable chokes are a must-have for hunters who need to adjust their pattern based on the game being hunted.
Magazine tube extensions increase the shell capacity, providing more firepower for home defense or competitive shooting.
Slings make carrying the shotgun easier, whether you’re hiking through the woods or patrolling your property.
To customize your Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge, begin by selecting components that suit your intended use. A quality stock will greatly improve the fit and handling. Experiment with different choke tubes to determine the pattern that performs best with your chosen ammunition. Ensure that all accessories are properly installed and that you understand their operation.
A Comparison: Examining Similar Shotguns
The 20-gauge shotgun market offers a variety of excellent choices, so let’s briefly consider a few alternatives.
The Mossberg 500 is a direct competitor to the Remington 870. The Mossberg 500 offers a similar pump-action design and is also known for its reliability and affordability. One key difference is the location of the safety. The Mossberg 500 has a top-mounted tang safety, while the Remington 870 has a crossbolt safety. This might influence the shooter’s familiarity with each gun.
The Benelli Nova offers a more modern design with a polymer stock and receiver. It is known for its durability and reliability. The Nova often has slightly different ergonomics and may feel different in the hands compared to the more traditional Remington 870.
Each of these shotguns offers strengths and weaknesses. The Remington 870 typically excels in terms of the sheer number of aftermarket options available. It also has a long track record of reliability and a proven design. Understanding these differences allows you to make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.
Weighing the Options: Pros and Cons of the 870 Express 20 Gauge
To summarize, let’s consider the advantages and disadvantages of the Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge.
Some significant advantages include its reliability. The 870’s robust design has stood the test of time. It is widely regarded as one of the most reliable shotguns ever made. Its affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters. The Express model is particularly budget-friendly. The vast availability of parts and accessories is another strong point. You can easily customize your 870 to suit your needs. The ease of use also makes it ideal for beginners and experienced shooters alike.
Conversely, a few potential disadvantages include the recoil, which, while more manageable than a 12 gauge, can still be noticeable. The Express model’s finish, designed to keep the cost down, is not as refined as higher-end models.
Care and Maintenance: Keeping Your 870 Express 20 Gauge Running Smoothly
Proper maintenance is key to keeping your Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge operating flawlessly.
Begin by cleaning the shotgun after each use, or at least periodically, even if it hasn’t been fired. Disassemble the shotgun according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a bore brush and solvent to clean the barrel. Clean the action and other internal parts with a suitable gun cleaner and lubricate them lightly with gun oil or a similar lubricant.
Pay close attention to the chamber and the action, making sure that they are free from fouling and debris. Wipe down the exterior surfaces of the shotgun with a clean cloth.
Store the Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge in a secure location, such as a gun safe or locked cabinet. Ensure that the shotgun is unloaded and that ammunition is stored separately.
Above all, practice safe gun handling habits. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded, never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy, and keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Following these simple steps will help to ensure that your Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge will provide years of reliable service.
Conclusion
The Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge is a versatile, reliable, and affordable shotgun, proving its worth to hunters, homeowners, and shooting enthusiasts. Its manageable recoil, adaptable design, and widespread availability of accessories make it a compelling choice. From upland bird hunting to home defense, the 870 Express 20 Gauge has proven itself as a valuable tool.
If you’re looking for a versatile, reliable, and user-friendly shotgun, the Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge is well worth considering. Its classic design and time-tested reliability will ensure that it serves you well for many years to come. Whether you’re looking for your first shotgun or you are looking to expand your collection, the 870 Express 20 Gauge is a great choice.
