The Remington 870 Police Magnum remains a legendary pump-action shotgun, a staple in law enforcement and civilian markets for decades. This review dives deep into its features, performance, and overall value, considering its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it's the right shotgun for you. We'll explore why the Remington 870 Police Magnum remains a popular choice despite newer competitors entering the market.
The Remington 870 Police Magnum: A Timeless Classic
The Remington 870's design is renowned for its rugged simplicity and reliability. The Police Magnum variant builds upon this foundation with features specifically tailored for professional and serious defensive applications. Its durable construction, straightforward operation, and readily available parts contribute to its enduring legacy. This shotgun is more than just a tool; it's a testament to proven engineering and robust design.
Key Features of the Remington 870 Police Magnum
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Reliable Pump-Action Mechanism: The heart of the 870 Police Magnum is its smooth, reliable pump-action. Years of use have proven its effectiveness even under stressful conditions. The action is straightforward and intuitive, requiring minimal training to master.
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Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh environments and heavy use, the 870 features a robust receiver and barrel constructed from high-quality materials. This contributes significantly to its longevity and reliability.
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High-Capacity Magazine: The "Magnum" designation refers to its capacity to handle 12-gauge magnum shells, delivering significant stopping power. While the standard magazine holds 5 rounds, extended magazines are readily available, increasing capacity.
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Versatile Barrel Options: The 870 Police Magnum is often available with various barrel lengths, allowing users to tailor the shotgun for specific purposes. Shorter barrels are ideal for close-quarters combat (CQB), while longer barrels offer improved accuracy at longer ranges.
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Accessory Rails: Many models feature accessory rails (typically Picatinny rails) allowing for the mounting of tactical lights, lasers, or other accessories, enhancing its utility in various situations.
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Bead Sight: While some models offer more sophisticated sighting systems, the standard bead sight is simple, dependable, and perfectly adequate for close-to-medium range engagements. It doesn't require extensive training or practice to utilize effectively.
Performance and Handling
The Remington 870 Police Magnum delivers consistent and reliable performance. The pump action is smooth and easy to operate, even under pressure. The shotgun's weight contributes to its stability during shooting, minimizing recoil. However, the felt recoil from magnum loads is substantial, requiring proper technique and practice to manage effectively.
Recoil Management
The substantial recoil generated by 12-gauge magnum shells demands attention. Proper shooting technique, including a firm grip, a proper stance, and appropriate follow-through, is crucial to manage recoil effectively. Consider using a recoil pad for enhanced comfort and reduced felt recoil.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Reliability: The 870's legendary reliability is a significant advantage. It's a shotgun you can depend on in critical situations.
- Durability: The robust construction ensures the shotgun can handle tough conditions.
- Versatility: Various barrel lengths and accessory options make it adaptable to different needs.
- Affordability: Compared to some newer shotguns, the Remington 870 offers excellent value for its price.
- Availability of Parts and Accessories: Finding replacement parts and accessories is generally straightforward due to the shotgun's popularity and widespread use.
Disadvantages:
- Recoil: Magnum loads generate significant recoil, which can be uncomfortable for some shooters.
- Weight: The shotgun is relatively heavy, which may be tiring for extended use.
- Sights: The standard bead sight is basic and may not be ideal for all shooting scenarios. Upgrading to ghost ring or other sights might be desired for better accuracy at longer ranges.
- Older Design: While this contributes to its reliability, some might find the design less modern compared to some newer pump-action shotguns on the market.
Comparison to Competitors
The Remington 870 Police Magnum faces competition from shotguns like the Mossberg 500 and 590A1. While these competitors offer comparable features, the 870 often stands out due to its proven track record and ease of maintenance. The choice between these shotguns often boils down to personal preference and specific needs.
Conclusion: Is the Remington 870 Police Magnum Right for You?
The Remington 870 Police Magnum remains a strong contender in the pump-action shotgun market. Its reliability, durability, and affordability make it an attractive option for both law enforcement and civilian users. However, the substantial recoil and basic sights should be considered. If you're looking for a reliable, rugged shotgun for home defense, hunting, or tactical applications, and can manage the recoil, the Remington 870 Police Magnum is undoubtedly worth considering. Ultimately, the best shotgun for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Do your research, handle different models if possible, and make an informed decision.