Imagine a shotgun so reliable, it’s been a trusted friend to hunters and law enforcement for over 60 years. That’s the legend of the Remington 870. But with so many different models and features, picking the perfect one can feel like navigating a maze. Do you need it for hunting waterfowl, defending your home, or something else entirely? The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming, and you want to make sure you get the right tool for the job without wasting time or money.
This post is your compass. We’re going to break down what makes the Remington 870 so special and guide you through the important decisions you’ll face. By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the key differences between the various 870 models, from the classic Wingmaster to the tactical Express. You’ll know which features matter most for your specific needs and feel confident in choosing the shotgun that’s right for you.
So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect Remington 870 for your adventures.
Our Top 5 Remington 870 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Remington 870 Detailed Reviews
1. Magpul MOE M-LOK Remington 870 Front Barrel Mount
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your Remington 870 shotgun with the Magpul MOE M-LOK Front Barrel Mount in Black. This cool part replaces the original mount. It makes your shotgun easier to handle and adds lots of new ways to attach accessories.
What We Like:
- Easy Installation: It’s a simple swap for your old part. An installation wrench comes with it.
- More Attachment Options: The M-LOK slots let you add lights, grips, and other cool stuff.
- Better Handling: The longer size helps you pump the shotgun more easily.
- Tough and Slim: Made of strong plastic, it’s built to last. Its slim design won’t get caught on things.
- Versatile Use: Great for hunting, protecting your home, or for police work.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not for Super Mag: It won’t fit the Remington 870 Super Mag model.
This Magpul mount makes your Remington 870 more useful and easier to use. It’s a smart upgrade for any owner.
2. Streamlight 69601 TL-Racker 1000 Lumen Forend Light for Remington Selected 870 Models with CR123A Lithium Batteries
Rating: 9.2/10
The Streamlight 69601 TL-Racker is a powerful 1000 lumen forend light made for specific Remington 870 shotguns. It fits models chambered for 2 3/4″ or 3″ shells, and also works with the Remington Tac 14. This light is designed to give you a bright beam to see clearly in the dark. It replaces your shotgun’s original forend, making it an easy upgrade.
What We Like:
- It is very bright, with 1000 lumens.
- The beam can reach 283 meters, which is far.
- The design is comfortable to hold and easy to use.
- The switch works for both left and right-handed people.
- It has both a quick on and a steady on option.
- It’s simple to swap out your old forend for this new light.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only works with certain Remington 870 models and the Tac 14.
- It is not compatible with Remington 870 Super Magnum models.
- The battery life on high is 1.5 hours, which might be short for some users.
This light is a solid choice for improving your Remington 870’s usefulness in low light. It offers great brightness and an easy-to-use design.
3. Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder
Rating: 8.6/10
The Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder is a handy accessory for Remington shotgun owners. It attaches right to the side of your shotgun, holding up to six extra shells. This makes it super easy to reload quickly when you need it most. It’s designed specifically for Remington 870, TAC-14, and 1100 series shotguns.
What We Like:
- It’s easy to install; you don’t need any special tools or a gunsmith.
- It holds six extra 12 gauge shells, giving you more firepower readily available.
- It fits popular Remington shotgun models like the 870, TAC-14, and 1100.
- Monstrum backs it with a lifetime warranty, meaning they stand behind their product.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only works with specific Remington shotgun models, so it’s not universal.
This side saddle is a solid addition for anyone wanting faster reloads on their Remington shotgun. Its simple installation and sturdy build make it a reliable choice for your shooting needs.
4. UTG 870 Optic Mount
Rating: 9.1/10
The UTG 870 Optic Mount is a great way to add a scope or red dot sight to your Remington 870 shotgun. It’s made of strong aluminum and has a full-length rail for lots of mounting options. This mount also comes with a handy shell carrier, so you can keep extra shells close by. It’s designed to fit your shotgun without needing any permanent changes.
What We Like:
- Built tough with 6061-T6 aluminum.
- The matte black finish looks good and is durable.
- It includes a removable 4-round shell carrier for quick reloads.
- The full-length Picatinny rail lets you attach many different optics.
- You can still use the bead sight on your shotgun.
- It installs easily on Remington 870 and 870DM shotguns without permanent modifications.
- It works with shotguns that have 3.5-inch chambers or smaller.
What Could Be Improved:
- The shell carrier might not fit all types of shotgun shells perfectly.
- Some users have noted that the mount can add a bit of weight to the shotgun.
This optic mount makes your Remington 870 more versatile. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their shotgun’s sighting system.
5. TOUGHSOUL Tactical Mag Tube Cap Flashlight 500 Lumen Max for Remington 870 with Strobe Function
Rating: 9.0/10
The TOUGHSOUL Tactical Mag Tube Cap Flashlight TF-9049R is designed specifically for the Remington 870 shotgun. It attaches right to the end of your magazine tube, giving you a powerful light source. This flashlight offers 500 lumens, which is bright enough to see things up to 120 meters away. It’s built tough, made from aircraft aluminum, and can handle drops and rain. Plus, it has a cool strobe function for disorienting targets.
What We Like:
- Bright 500-lumen beam reaches up to 120 meters.
- Durable aircraft aluminum body is shockproof and waterproof (IPX6).
- Strobe function adds tactical versatility.
- Easy to install on compatible Remington 870 models.
- Includes a replaceable CR123A battery.
What Could Be Improved:
- Strictly for Remington 870 shotguns; does not fit other models.
- Won’t fit Remington 870s with non-flat magazine tubes.
- Battery is not rechargeable.
This flashlight is a solid addition for Remington 870 owners who need a reliable, bright light. Its rugged design makes it ready for various conditions.
The Remington 870: Your Guide to Owning an American Classic
The Remington 870 is a shotgun that’s been around for a long time. It’s a pump-action shotgun, meaning you have to work the pump to load the next shell. People love it because it’s tough, reliable, and can be used for many different things. This guide will help you understand what to look for when buying one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re thinking about getting a Remington 870, there are a few things that make it a great shotgun.
- Action Type: All Remington 870s are pump-action. This is a simple and dependable system. It’s easy to learn how to use.
- Barrel Length: Barrels come in different lengths. Shorter barrels (like 18 or 20 inches) are good for tight spaces, like home defense or close-quarters shooting. Longer barrels (like 26 or 28 inches) are better for hunting or sports shooting, where you need more accuracy at a distance.
- Choke Tubes: Many newer 870s have interchangeable choke tubes. These are special inserts that go at the end of the barrel. They help control how the shot spreads out. Different chokes are good for different kinds of shooting. For example, a tighter choke is good for hunting small game, while a more open choke is better for clay shooting.
- Sights: Some 870s have simple bead sights. Others have rifle sights, which are like the sights on a rifle. Rifle sights can help you aim more precisely.
- Magazine Capacity: This is how many shells the shotgun can hold. Most 870s hold 4 or 5 shells in the magazine tube, plus one in the chamber. Some models have extended magazines that hold more.
Important Materials
The Remington 870 is built to last.
- Receiver: The main part of the shotgun is usually made of steel. Steel is strong and durable. It can handle a lot of use.
- Barrel: The barrel is also made of steel. It’s drilled and rifled (though most 870 barrels aren’t rifled, which is important to note for accuracy with slugs). The steel needs to be high quality to withstand the pressure of firing.
- Stock and Fore-end: These are the parts you hold. They are often made of wood or a strong synthetic material like polymer. Wood can look nice, but it can be damaged by moisture. Synthetic materials are usually tougher and don’t mind the weather as much.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one 870 better than another?
- Fit and Finish: A well-made 870 will have smooth metal parts and a nice finish. The wood or synthetic parts will fit snugly. Poor fit and finish can mean a shotgun that doesn’t work as well.
- Smooth Action: When you work the pump, it should move smoothly. It shouldn’t feel stiff or sticky. A smooth action is a sign of good craftsmanship.
- Reliability: The best 870s are known for being super reliable. They fire every time you pull the trigger and every time you pump. This is the most important factor for many buyers.
- Maintenance: Like any tool, an 870 needs to be cleaned and cared for. Neglecting to clean it can lead to rust and parts not working right. This reduces its quality and lifespan.
User Experience and Use Cases
People use the Remington 870 for many reasons.
- Home Defense: Many people choose the 870 for protection at home. Its reliability and the ability to load different kinds of shells make it a good choice. A shorter barrel is often preferred for this.
- Hunting: Hunters use the 870 for birds and small game. The ability to change choke tubes and barrel lengths makes it versatile for different hunting situations.
- Sport Shooting: The 870 is also popular for sports like trap and skeet shooting. These sports involve shooting at clay targets.
- Law Enforcement and Military: For many years, the 870 was a standard shotgun for police and military. Its toughness and dependability made it a favorite.
The Remington 870 is a shotgun that has earned its reputation. It’s a solid choice for many different needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Remington 870
Q: What makes the Remington 870 so popular?
A: The Remington 870 is popular because it is very reliable, tough, and can be used for many different things like hunting or home defense.
Q: Can I change the barrel on a Remington 870?
A: Yes, you can often change the barrel on a Remington 870. This lets you use different barrel lengths for different purposes.
Q: What is a choke tube and why is it important?
A: A choke tube is a part that screws onto the end of the barrel. It helps control how the shot spreads out, which is important for accuracy at different distances.
Q: Is the Remington 870 easy to clean?
A: Yes, the Remington 870 is generally considered easy to clean. Regular cleaning keeps it working well.
Q: What is the difference between a wood stock and a synthetic stock on an 870?
A: Wood stocks look nice but can be damaged by water. Synthetic stocks are usually tougher and can handle rougher conditions.
Q: Is the Remington 870 good for beginners?
A: Yes, the Remington 870 is often recommended for beginners because it is simple to operate and very reliable.
Q: What kind of shells can I use in a Remington 870?
A: Remington 870s are typically chambered for 12-gauge or 20-gauge shells. You can use different types of shells, like birdshot or buckshot, depending on what you are doing.
Q: How do I know if a used Remington 870 is in good condition?
A: Look for smooth operation of the pump, no rust on metal parts, and a tight fit of the stock and fore-end. Check the barrel for any damage inside.
Q: Can I customize a Remington 870?
A: Yes, the Remington 870 is very customizable. You can find many aftermarket parts like stocks, sights, and magazine extensions.
Q: Is the Remington 870 still being made?
A: Yes, Remington continues to make the 870, offering many different models for various uses.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
William has over three years of experience in building gazebos. He started AskGazebo.com to assist his clients.