The Roots of a Legend: History and Evolution of the Remington 870
To truly appreciate the Remington 870 Super Magnum, it’s essential to understand its origins. The story begins in the early nineteen fifties, when Remington introduced the 870, a pump-action shotgun designed to replace the aging Model 31. The objective was simple: to create a reliable, durable, and affordable shotgun that would appeal to a broad audience. The result was a resounding success.
The initial design of the 870 incorporated innovative features that quickly set it apart. The receiver, crafted from solid steel, provided exceptional strength and longevity. The pump-action mechanism, known for its smooth and dependable operation, quickly became a hallmark of the 870. The shotgun’s affordability and adaptability led to its rapid adoption across a wide range of applications, from hunting and sport shooting to law enforcement and military service.
Over the decades, the 870 has undergone numerous iterations, refining its design and expanding its capabilities. Different models emerged, each catering to specific needs and preferences. One of the most notable of these variations is the Remington 870 Super Magnum.
The creation of the Remington 870 Super Magnum was a direct response to the growing demand for shotguns capable of handling longer, more powerful shells. Hunters sought greater range and knock-down power, especially when pursuing larger game such as waterfowl and turkeys. The Super Magnum answered this need by accommodating the increasingly popular three and a half inch shells.
At the Core: Examining the Essential Features of the Remington 870 Super Magnum
What sets the Remington 870 Super Magnum apart? Its core features provide the answer. These elements contribute to its performance, reliability, and adaptability.
At the heart of the shotgun lies its action type: a pump-action mechanism. This design is renowned for its simplicity and reliability. With each pump of the fore-end, the spent shell is ejected, and a fresh round is chambered. This straightforward system requires minimal maintenance and is less prone to malfunctions compared to some semi-automatic designs.
The Super Magnum’s most significant feature is its ability to chamber and fire shells of varying lengths. While it can readily handle the standard inch and three-quarter inch and three-inch shells, its defining characteristic is its ability to accommodate the three and a half inch shell. This extended chamber capacity offers increased ballistic performance, making it ideal for a variety of hunting applications.
The barrel lengths and choke options available for the Remington 870 Super Magnum add to its versatility. Common barrel lengths range from shorter barrels intended for home defense and tactical use, to longer barrels ideal for hunting. The choke plays a crucial role in controlling the spread of the shot pattern. Chokes are interchangeable, allowing shooters to tailor the pattern to the target distance and game being pursued. A tighter choke, like a full choke, concentrates the shot for longer ranges, while a more open choke, like a cylinder choke, spreads the shot for closer targets.
The magazine capacity typically holds several shells, providing ample firepower. The magazine tube can be extended to hold additional rounds, making it suitable for various applications.
The receiver and construction are central to the Remington 870 Super Magnum’s reputation for durability. The receiver, usually made from steel, is built to withstand the stresses of repeated firing and the rigors of field use. This robust construction contributes significantly to the shotgun’s longevity.
The stock and fore-end options allow for customization and comfortable handling. Stocks can be made from wood or synthetic materials, with variations in style to suit individual preferences. The fore-end, which is the part of the gun that is moved back and forth to chamber the next round, is also available in various designs to provide a secure grip and ease of operation.
Sights can range from a simple bead sight, ideal for quick target acquisition, to the option of mounting a rail for optics.
A variety of finish options are offered, each with its own aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. From blued steel to matte black finishes, and camouflage patterns, the choice of finish can impact the shotgun’s appearance, as well as its resistance to wear and weather.
The Super Magnum’s Strengths: Advantages of the 870 Super Magnum
The Remington 870 Super Magnum distinguishes itself through several key advantages. These factors contribute to its widespread popularity and versatility.
The versatility of the Super Magnum is undoubtedly one of its strongest points. The ability to accommodate shells of different lengths makes it a very adaptable shotgun. This flexibility allows shooters to choose the appropriate shell for various hunting situations, from close-range upland game to long-range waterfowl. This adaptability enhances the Super Magnum’s appeal across multiple hunting scenarios.
The performance of the three and a half inch shell is a significant benefit. The larger shell contains a greater payload of shot and can generate higher velocities, offering extended range and increased stopping power. This performance enhancement is especially advantageous for waterfowl hunting, where shots can often be taken at longer distances.
The reliability of the Remington 870 platform is legendary. The pump-action mechanism is inherently dependable, making it less likely to fail under adverse conditions. This reliability is a significant advantage in the field, providing peace of mind and ensuring consistent performance.
The affordability of the Remington 870 Super Magnum contributes to its appeal. The price point is generally very accessible compared to other high-end shotguns, making it an excellent value for the money. This affordability opens up the world of shotgun shooting to a wider audience.
The parts and customization options available for the Remington 870 Super Magnum are almost endless. The aftermarket offers a wide array of accessories, from stocks and fore-ends to magazine extensions and optics, allowing shooters to tailor their shotgun to their specific needs and preferences.
Finding Its Place: Common Applications of the Remington 870 Super Magnum
The Remington 870 Super Magnum excels in several distinct applications. Its versatility makes it well-suited for a range of purposes.
Hunting is the primary application for the Remington 870 Super Magnum. It is particularly popular for waterfowl hunting. The ability to shoot a 3.5-inch shell allows for increased range and shot density, resulting in cleaner kills at greater distances for ducks and geese. The Super Magnum is also a preferred choice for turkey hunting, again, because of its ability to deliver a large payload of shot at extended ranges. Hunters appreciate the power and effectiveness of the Remington 870 Super Magnum when pursuing these types of game.
While not its primary purpose, the Remington 870 Super Magnum can also be employed in home defense. With the right shell choice, such as a defensive round, it can provide formidable stopping power. However, it’s essential to consider recoil, maneuverability, and the potential for over-penetration when using a shotgun for home defense.
Although less prevalent than with some other shotgun models, the Remington 870 Super Magnum is sometimes used for sport shooting disciplines like trap, skeet, and sporting clays. However, the three and a half inch shell is rarely needed in those events.
Important Considerations: Points to Ponder When Choosing the 870 Super Magnum
Before committing to a Remington 870 Super Magnum, it is necessary to consider a few aspects.
The recoil from the three and a half inch shells can be significant. Shooters should be prepared for a greater level of recoil than what is experienced with shorter shells. Proper technique and practice are vital to control the shotgun effectively.
Shell selection is an important decision that affects both performance and safety. Choosing the appropriate shell for the intended purpose ensures optimal results and avoids any issues. Careful consideration should be given to shot size, payload, and the type of game being hunted.
Proper maintenance is crucial for the long-term performance and reliability of any firearm. Regularly cleaning the shotgun, lubricating moving parts, and inspecting for wear and tear ensures it remains in top condition and ready for action.
Training is essential for all firearm owners. Practice with the Remington 870 Super Magnum, developing proficiency with the pump-action mechanism, learning to handle it safely, and becoming familiar with its characteristics, is necessary for its effective use.
Comparing to the Competition: Similar Shotguns
While the Remington 870 Super Magnum stands out in the market, its attributes need to be considered in comparison with other shotguns.
In comparison to the standard 870, the Super Magnum offers the added advantage of the three and a half inch shell capability. This is especially relevant if you’re primarily interested in hunting waterfowl or turkey.
Compared to other pump-action shotguns, the Remington 870 Super Magnum boasts a well-deserved reputation for reliability and a wide selection of aftermarket parts. Many other pump-action designs are similar in function, but the 870’s extensive popularity means there is a bigger pool of available parts, accessories, and resources for this platform.
The Remington 870 Super Magnum can also be compared to semi-automatic shotguns. Semi-automatics offer the advantage of rapid follow-up shots, but they can be more expensive and potentially less reliable than the simple pump-action design.
Accessories and Customization: Personalizing Your Shotgun
The Remington 870 Super Magnum offers a wide variety of customization options. Numerous accessories are available to tailor the shotgun to meet your needs.
Popular aftermarket accessories include extended magazines, offering increased capacity for the shell. Different stocks and fore-ends can enhance comfort and appearance. Mounting rails allow for the attachment of optics, improving accuracy at longer ranges.
Customization options abound for different applications. For hunting, you can choose camouflage patterns and specialized choke tubes. For home defense, you can add weapon lights and red-dot sights.
Practical accessories include slings for easy carrying, and shell holders to keep additional ammunition at the ready.
Maintaining Your Investment: Care and Upkeep
Proper maintenance ensures the long-term reliability and performance of the Remington 870 Super Magnum. Regular care keeps the shotgun functioning correctly.
Cleaning procedures involve disassembling the shotgun, removing any dirt, debris, and powder residue, and thoroughly cleaning the barrel and other components.
Lubrication is another critical step. Applying a quality gun oil to the moving parts helps to reduce friction and prevent wear.
Be on the lookout for common issues, such as failure to eject or feed. Routine inspections can help identify problems before they become serious.
Conclusion: Embracing the Versatility of the Remington 870 Super Magnum
In the world of shotguns, the Remington 870 Super Magnum holds a deserved position of respect. Its blend of reliability, versatility, and affordability makes it an outstanding choice for hunters, sport shooters, and those seeking a reliable defensive firearm.
This is not just a shotgun, it’s a proven system. The Remington 870 Super Magnum’s ability to handle a variety of shell lengths, combined with its robust construction and the availability of extensive customization options, ensures its continued relevance.
If you’re in the market for a versatile and reliable shotgun, the Remington 870 Super Magnum deserves your attention. Its proven track record and extensive features make it a compelling option for any shooter. Consider the needs and preferences of the applications you will be using the shotgun for, and explore the features that make the Remington 870 Super Magnum a dependable tool for anyone.
