Remington 870 Express

Remington 870 Express shotgun in 12 gauge, 20 gauge, .410 bore: specs, history, ammo and Colorado legal notes from the CO Boots gun library. Want hands-on time with a firearm like the Remington 870 Express? Our certified instructors cover safe handling, operation and marksmanship in every firearms training class.

Library IDGT-337
ManufacturerRemington
TypeShotgun
Caliber12 gauge, 20 gauge, .410 bore
ActionPump-action
Barrel Length18.5 inches (470 mm)
Country of OriginUnited States
Year of Production1950
Production StatusIn production
Typical UsersLaw enforcement, military, civilians
Rating4.5

Remington 870 Express: Technical Specifications

The Remington 870 Express is a pump-action shotgun renowned for its reliability and versatility. It typically fires 12, 20, or .410 bore calibers, accommodating a range of ammunition types. The barrel length varies, commonly available in 18, 20, 26, or 28 inches, allowing for customization based on intended use.

The shotgun weighs approximately 7.5 to 8 pounds, depending on configuration. The receiver is made from steel, ensuring durability, while the stock is often crafted from synthetic materials or hardwood, providing a solid grip and feel.

A key engineering aspect of the 870 Express is its dual-action bars, which enhance reliability by minimizing the chance of binding during operation. Additionally, it features a smooth, consistent pump action and a cross-bolt safety for secure handling. The shotgun's modular design allows for easy upgrades and modifications, making it popular among sports shooters, hunters, and law enforcement. Overall, the Remington 870 Express is a robust and adaptable firearm.

Remington 870 Express: Performance Characteristics

The Remington 870 Express is a pump-action shotgun known for its robust design and versatility.

Accuracy: The 870 Express offers commendable accuracy for a shotgun, especially with slugs, capable of achieving tight groupings at 50 yards. Choke options enhance patterning with birdshot.

Reliability: Renowned for its reliability, the 870 functions well in various conditions, handling various loads without frequent jams or malfunctions. Its simple design facilitates easy maintenance.

Handling: Weighing around 7.5 pounds, the 870 is balanced, with a smooth pump action that allows fast follow-up shots. Its stock options accommodate different shooters.

Rate of Fire: While semi-automatics have a higher rate of fire, the 870 can be cycled quickly, achieving a practical rate of 3-4 shots per minute for skilled users.

Other Metrics: The shotgun features a durable construction, a variety of barrel lengths, and customizable options, making it suitable for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. Overall, the Remington 870 Express is a reliable, versatile choice for var

Remington 870 Express: Design Features

The Remington 870 Express is a pump-action shotgun renowned for its reliability and versatility. Ergonomically, it features a well-contoured synthetic stock and forend, providing a comfortable grip and easy handling. The shotgun typically has a 14-inch length of pull, accommodating various shooters.

Safety mechanisms include a cross-bolt safety located behind the trigger, ensuring easy access for right- or left-handed shooters. The action is designed for smooth cycling, with a solid steel receiver and dual action bars that enhance reliability.

Aesthetically, the 870 Express has a matte black finish that minimizes glare, paired with a streamlined profile. The barrel often features a vent rib for improved sighting and accuracy.

Innovative features include the ability to easily customize with various accessories, such as different barrel lengths and sight options. The modular nature of the platform allows for personal modifications, making it a favorite among hunters and sport shooters alike.

Remington 870 Express: Historical Context

The Remington 870 Express, introduced in 1950, is a pump-action shotgun designed by the Remington Arms Company. It emerged as a versatile firearm for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. Its development was driven by the need for a reliable, affordable shotgun that could be mass-produced.

Key milestones include its initial release, which quickly gained popularity due to its smooth action and durability. By the 1960s, the 870 became a staple in law enforcement and military use, especially noted for its reliability in various conditions.

The 870 has seen extensive use in significant events, such as the Vietnam War and various domestic law enforcement operations, cementing its reputation. Its design influenced many subsequent shotguns, promoting features like the interchangeable choke system and modular accessories, setting a standard for pump-action firearms.

The Remington 870 Express remains one of the best-selling shotguns in history, renowned for its adaptability and robustness, influencing firearm design for decades.

Remington 870 Express: User Experience

The Remington 870 Express is widely praised for its reliability and versatility as a pump-action shotgun. Users appreciate its comfortable design, featuring a traditional stock that fits well for most shooters. The shotgun's weight provides stability, making it manageable for extended use.

Ease of use is a significant highlight; the action is smooth, and the controls are intuitive, allowing for quick handling, especially in high-pressure situations. Many users find the 870 Express suitable for various applications, from home defense to hunting.

Durability is another strong point, as the 870 is built with robust materials, often enduring harsh conditions without significant wear. However, some users report issues with the finish, which can wear off over time, and occasional concerns about the loading mechanism being stiff.

Overall, the Remington 870 Express receives high marks for comfort, ease of use, and durability, with minor complaints primarily about cosmetic wear and specific mechanical quirks.

Remington 870 Express: Ammunition Information

The Remington 870 Express is a versatile pump-action shotgun primarily chambered for 12-gauge shells, but also available in 20-gauge and .410 bore variants. The most common ammunition for the 12-gauge includes 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells, accommodating a wide range of loads from birdshot to buckshot and slugs.

The 870 Express is compatible with various brands, including Federal, Winchester, and Hornady, allowing users to select from standard target loads, high-velocity hunting loads, and specialty rounds. For optimal performance, many shooters recommend using high-quality buckshot (e.g., 00 or 000) for home defense and heavy-duty slugs for hunting larger game.

Additionally, the Remington 870 can handle specialty ammunition like reduced recoil loads for improved control and faster follow-up shots. Always ensure that the chosen ammunition matches the specific chambering of the shotgun to ensure safe and effective operation.

Remington 870 Express: Usage Tips and Best Practices

The Remington 870 Express is a versatile shotgun known for its reliability. Here are some usage tips and best practices:

Cleaning and Maintenance:
1. Regular Cleaning: After each use, clean the barrel, action, and magazine. Use a cleaning rod and solvent to remove fouling.
2. Lubrication: Apply a light coat of gun oil to the action and moving parts. Avoid over-lubrication as it can attract dirt.
3. Check Components: Periodically inspect the barrel, stock, and trigger assembly for wear or damage.

Shooting Tips:
1. Stance and Grip: Use a stable shooting stance with your feet shoulder-width apart. Grip the shotgun firmly but not overly tight.
2. Aiming: Focus on the front bead sight, aligning it with your target. Practice aiming to improve accuracy.
3. Recoil Management: Lean slightly forward to absorb recoil; practice with lighter loads to build confidence.

Common Mistakes:
1. Neglecting Maintenance: Failing to clean regularly can lead to jams.
2. Poor Mounting: Ensure the shotgun is properly mounted to your shoulder for consistent aim.
3. Ignoring Safety: Always treat the firearm as

Legal Considerations in Colorado

The Remington 870 Express is a pump-action shotgun widely used for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. Its legal status varies by jurisdiction. In the U.S., it is generally legal for civilian ownership, but state laws differ significantly.

In states like California and New York, restrictions may apply, such as limitations on magazine capacity. Conversely, states like Texas have fewer restrictions. The model is not classified as an "assault weapon," making it more widely accessible.

Military use of the Remington 870 occurs in law enforcement and combat roles, primarily in the form of modified versions.

Notable legal cases involving shotguns, including the 870, often focus on self-defense claims or challenges related to state regulations, such as the Supreme Court's decision in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), which affirmed an individual's right to bear arms. Always check local laws for the most current regulations.

Remington 870 Express: Reviews and Ratings

User reviews for the Remington 870 Express generally highlight its reliability and durability, with many users praising it as a dependable shotgun for various purposes, including home defense and hunting. Accuracy is often noted as solid, with reviewers appreciating its ease of use and handling, particularly for beginners.

However, some users have reported issues with quality control, mentioning inconsistent finish and occasional mechanical problems, which can affect overall satisfaction. Customer service experiences vary; while some users report positive interactions and prompt resolutions, others express frustration with slow responses and inadequate support.

Overall, the Remington 870 Express garners high satisfaction ratings, with many users recommending it for its versatility and performance, despite some concerns regarding quality and customer service. Recurring themes include strong reliability, decent accuracy, mixed experiences with customer support, and a general recommendation for its value in the shotgun market.

Remington 870 Express: Appearances in Media

The Remington 870 Express is a popular shotgun that has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and video games. Here's a brief list of some notable appearances:

Movies
1. The Departed (2006) - Used by several characters in pivotal scenes.
2. Die Hard (1988) - Featured prominently in the hands of police officers.
3. The Punisher (2004) - Used by the main character in various action sequences.
4. The Boondock Saints (1999) - Used by the protagonists throughout the film.

TV Shows
1. The Walking Dead - Characters are often seen using the Remington 870 in various survival situations.
2. Justified - The shotgun is used by law enforcement and criminals alike in this crime drama.
3. Brooklyn Nine-Nine - Occasionally appears in police-related scenes.

Video Games
1. Call of Duty Series - Featured in several installments, including "Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare."
2. Battlefield Series - Appears in multiple games, often as a weapon option for players.
3. Halo Series - The Remington 870 is represented in various forms in some adaptations and mods.
4. Rainbow Six Siege - The shotgun appears as one of the weapons available to operators.

This list is not exhaustive, but it highlights some of the most notable appearances of the Remington 870 Express across different media.

Remington 870 Express: Related Models

Here are firearm models related to the Remington 870 Express:

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