Introduction
The Remington 870 is one of the world’s most famous shotguns. Manufactured by the American company Remington Arms, it was first introduced in 1950. This shotgun revolutionized the firearms industry thanks to its rugged design, exceptional reliability and great versatility. Since then, over 11 million have been produced, making it one of the world’s best-selling shotguns. This article delves into the history, features, variants and performance of this legendary weapon.
History and design
The genesis of the Remington 870 dates back to the late 1940s. The aim was to create a reliable and affordable pump-action shotgun, while eliminating the problems encountered with earlier models. The Remington 870 was conceived as a successor to the Model 31 and Sportsman, which, although renowned for their quality, were more expensive to produce.
One of the key innovations of the Remington 870 was the use of a solid steel case, offering unrivalled strength compared to its competitors at the time. At the same time, modern production techniques were introduced to reduce manufacturing costs, making it possible to offer a high-performance weapon at a competitive price.
From its launch in 1950, the Remington 870 was an instant success. It quickly won over hunters, law enforcement officers, military personnel and sport-shooting enthusiasts. The weapon’s modularity and customizability have reinforced its appeal over the decades.
Technical data
The Remington 870 is famous for its simple, effective design. Here are its main technical specifications:
Main specifications
Calibre: Available in a wide range of calibres, including 12, 20, 28 and .410.
Mechanism: Pump-action rifle with manual reloading, operated by a slide located under the barrel.
Capacity: 4 to 8 cartridges, depending on model and magazine tube configuration.
Weight: Approx. 3 to 3.6 kg, depending on barrel length and materials.
Barrel length: Available in several lengths, from 18 inches (46 cm) to 30 inches (76 cm), depending on the intended use.
Materials: Solid steel case, wood (walnut) or durable polymer stock and barrel.
Reliability and durability
The Remington 870 is designed for extreme conditions. Whether in wet, dusty or cold environments, it delivers consistent performance. Its robust construction minimizes wear, even after thousands of shots.
Versions and variants
The Remington 870 is one of the most versatile shotguns around, thanks to a wide range of models to suit different needs.
Emblematic models
Remington 870 Express: An affordable and durable version, ideal for hunters and hobby shooters.
Remington 870 Wingmaster: A top-of-the-range model with an elegant finish and premium materials, perfect for hunting enthusiasts.
Remington 870 Tactical: Designed for personal defense and law enforcement, it features short barrels, tactical rails and modern accessories.
Remington 870 Police: A reinforced version for intensive use by law enforcement officers.
Remington 870 Marine Magnum: Built with corrosion-resistant materials, it is ideal for marine environments.
Accessories and customization
One of the strengths of the Remington 870 is its compatibility with a wide range of accessories:
Tube magazine extensions to increase capacity.
Optical or holographic viewfinders.
Ergonomic front handles and crossbars.
Mufflers and muzzle brakes.
Various uses
The Remington 870 is suitable for a wide variety of contexts:
Hunting
The Remington 870 is the preferred choice of many hunters for its reliability and ability to fire cartridges of different types (lead, buckshot, slug). It is used for small game, migratory birds and big game.
Personal defense
Its simple design, maneuverability and power make it an excellent weapon for home protection. Tactical versions with short barrels and adjustable stocks are particularly popular.
Law enforcement and military
The Remington 870 is widely adopted by police forces and military units for its ruggedness and ability to adapt to a variety of situations, such as law enforcement or special missions.
Sport shooting
It is also popular for skeet, trap and practical shooting competitions.
Comparison with other shotguns
The Remington 870 goes head-to-head with competitors such as the Mossberg 500 and Winchester SXP. While each model has its strong points, the Remington 870 stands out for :
Sturdiness: A solid steel case offers superior durability.
Its history: With over 70 years of production, it has become a legend.
Modularity: an extensive range of accessories and variants means it can be adapted to any use.
Impact and legacy
Since its launch, the Remington 870 has left an indelible mark on the firearms industry. It redefined expectations of shotguns and inspired many other models. Even today, it remains an essential choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
The Remington 870 is much more than a firearm: it’s an institution. Its reliability, durability and versatility have made it a favorite of hunters, law enforcement officers and shooters the world over. With millions in service and a rich history, it continues to reign supreme in the world of shotguns.
