The Ultimate Guide to the Remington 870 Magnum: Specs, Reviews & Customization
For generations, the Remington 870 has been a cornerstone of American firearms ownership. But beyond the standard models, lies a powerful and versatile variant: the Remington 870 Magnum. I’ve spent years working with and around shotguns, from guiding upland bird hunts to advising on home defense setups, and the 870 Magnum consistently proves its worth. This guide will delve into the specifics of the 870 Magnum, covering its various iterations – the 870 Express Magnum, 870 Super Magnum, and tactical models – providing in-depth Remington 870 Magnum reviews, and exploring customization options to tailor it to your specific needs. We’ll also cover the 870 Express 12 gauge barrel options and what makes this shotgun so enduringly popular.
Understanding the Remington 870 Magnum Family
The “Magnum” designation isn’t just marketing hype. The Remington 870 Magnum (and its 870 Super Magnum sibling) are designed to handle higher pressure shells – specifically, 3 ½ inch 12-gauge loads. This opens up a wider range of ammunition choices, offering increased payload and effective range compared to standard 2 ¾ inch shells. The standard 870 is incredibly reliable, but the Magnum variants offer a significant performance boost for certain applications.
Key Differences: 870 Magnum vs. 870 Super Magnum
While often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences. The original Remington 870 Magnum (often referred to as the 870 Express Magnum) is chambered for 2 ¾ and 3 ½ inch shells. The 870 Super Magnum, introduced later, features a lengthened forcing cone and improved cylinder bore to better handle the recoil and patterns of heavier loads. According to Remington, the Super Magnum is optimized for slugs and buckshot, providing tighter groupings and reduced felt recoil. This makes the Remington 870 Super Mag a popular choice for law enforcement and those prioritizing slug performance.
870 Express Magnum 12 Gauge Specs: A Detailed Look
Let's break down the core specifications of the 870 Express Magnum 12 gauge:
- Action: Pump-action
- Gauge: 12 gauge
- Chamber: 2 ¾ inch and 3 ½ inch
- Barrel Length: Typically 18.5, 20, or 26 inches (but many aftermarket options exist)
- Capacity: 4+1 rounds
- Receiver: Machined from solid steel
- Stock: Typically synthetic or hardwood
- Weight: Approximately 7.5 - 8.5 pounds (depending on configuration)
These 870 Express Magnum specs represent a solid foundation, but the true versatility comes from the extensive customization options available.
Remington 870 Express Tactical Review & Variations
The 870 Express Tactical review landscape is overwhelmingly positive, particularly for its reliability and affordability. The 870 Express Tactical models often feature shorter barrels (18.5 inches is common), pistol grips, and adjustable stocks, making them ideal for close-quarters applications. I’ve seen these used extensively in 3-gun competitions and as dedicated home defense shotguns.
Popular Tactical Configurations
- Remington 870 Tactical Express: A factory-built tactical model with a synthetic stock and forend.
- Shorty Shotgun Remington: Often refers to 870s with 14-18 inch barrels, popular for their maneuverability.
- Remington 870 Police Magnum: Built to withstand the rigors of law enforcement use, featuring a reinforced action and durable finish. The Remington 870 Police Magnum specs are similar to the Express Magnum, but with added durability features.
When considering a tactical 870, think about your intended use. A short barrel Remington 870 is great for CQB, but may sacrifice some range and accuracy.
Home Defense with the Remington 870: A Practical Approach
The Remington 870 is a frequent recommendation for home defense shotgun applications, and for good reason. Its reliability, stopping power, and relatively low cost make it an excellent choice. The Remington 870 hardwood home defense models offer a classic look and feel, while synthetic stocks are more resistant to the elements. I always recommend pairing it with a light and a proper sling for quick deployment. Consider a USCCA-approved home defense course to learn proper techniques.
Choosing the Right Ammunition for Home Defense
Buckshot is the most common choice for home defense, offering multiple projectiles to increase the probability of a hit. However, slugs provide greater penetration and are effective at longer ranges within a home. The Remington 870 Express shell size is compatible with both 2 ¾ and 3 ½ inch shells, giving you flexibility in ammunition selection. Always practice with your chosen ammunition to understand its recoil and point of impact.
Hunting Applications: Remington 870 Express Hunter & Beyond
The Remington Express Hunter is a classic hunting configuration, typically featuring a longer barrel and a walnut stock. The Remington 870 Magnum is well-suited for hunting larger game, such as deer, with slugs. The ability to chamber 3 ½ inch shells provides a significant advantage in terms of payload and effective range. I’ve personally used an 870 Magnum for turkey hunting with great success.
Best Remington 870 Slug Barrel Review
If you plan to use your 870 Magnum for slug shooting, investing in a dedicated slug barrel is highly recommended. Rifled slug barrels significantly improve accuracy and range. Many aftermarket options are available, such as those from MidwayUSA and Brownells. Look for barrels made from high-quality steel with a tight choke for optimal performance. A Remington 870 express slug barrel review will often highlight the improved accuracy and tighter groupings achieved with a dedicated slug barrel.
Customization & Building Your Ideal 870
One of the biggest appeals of the Remington 870 is its incredible customization potential. From stocks and forends to triggers and sights, you can tailor it to your exact preferences. A Remington 870 build can be a rewarding project, allowing you to create a truly unique firearm.
Popular Upgrades
- Stocks & Forends: Upgrade to a more comfortable or ergonomic stock. Consider a pistol grip for improved control. The best Remington 870 pistol grip stock depends on your hand size and shooting style.
- Triggers: A lighter, more crisp trigger can improve accuracy.
- Sights: Ghost ring sights or a red dot optic can enhance target acquisition.
- Barrel: Swap out the factory barrel for a different length or configuration.
Resources like Remington870.com are excellent for finding parts and information on Remington 870 tactical build projects.
The Remington 870: A Legacy of Reliability
The Remington 870, in all its variations, including the Remington 870 Magnum, has earned its reputation as a reliable and versatile firearm. From its historical use in the Remington 870 Vietnam era to its continued popularity today, it remains a staple for hunters, home defenders, and law enforcement professionals alike. Whether you’re looking for a rugged hunting companion, a dependable home defense shotgun, or a platform for customization, the Remington 870 Express Magnum 12ga is a solid choice. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations. The Remington 870 super mag price varies depending on configuration, but its value proposition remains strong.
Disclaimer: I am an outdoor industry professional and firearms enthusiast. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional training or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified firearms instructor and adhere to all local, state, and federal laws.