Imagine a shotgun so tough it’s been trusted by law enforcement, hunters, and sport shooters for over 60 years. That’s the Remington 870. For many, this iconic pump-action shotgun is the ultimate choice. But with so many different models and features, picking the perfect one can feel like a maze. You want a shotgun that fits your needs, whether for hunting that elusive deer or hitting targets at the range, and you don’t want to end up with something that’s not quite right.
This is where we come in. We understand the confusion that comes with trying to find your ideal Remington 870. That’s why we’ve put together this detailed guide. By reading on, you’ll discover what makes the 870 so special, how to understand the different versions available, and what features truly matter for your specific purpose. We’ll break down the jargon and help you see clearly through the choices.
Get ready to learn everything you need to know to confidently choose the Remington 870 that’s right for you. Let’s dive in and explore what makes this legendary shotgun a legend, and how you can find your perfect match.
Our Top 5 Remington 870 Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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UTG 870 Optic Mount | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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Magpul MOE M-LOK Remington 870 Front Barrel Mount | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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TacStar 1081157 Side Saddle | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Streamlight 69601 TL-Racker 1 | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Remington 870 Detailed Reviews
1. UTG 870 Optic Mount
Rating: 8.8/10
The UTG 870 Optic Mount is a great upgrade for your Remington 870 shotgun. It lets you add a scope or red dot sight to your shotgun. This mount is made of strong aluminum. It also comes with a handy shell carrier. You can install it without making any permanent changes to your shotgun.
What We Like:
- It’s made from tough 6061-T6 aluminum. This makes it strong and it won’t rust.
- The matte black finish looks really good on your shotgun.
- It includes a 4-round shell carrier. This keeps extra shells right where you need them.
- The full-length Picatinny rail gives you lots of space for different sights.
- You can still use your shotgun’s bead sight. This is helpful for quick shots.
- It fits Remington 870 and 870DM shotguns.
- Installation is simple. You don’t need to drill or cut your shotgun.
What Could Be Improved:
- The shell carrier is removable, but it might feel a little less sturdy than a permanently attached one.
- While it fits many 870 models, it’s always good to double-check compatibility.
This UTG optic mount is a solid choice for any Remington 870 owner wanting to improve their shotgun’s versatility. It offers a durable and easy way to add optics without harming your firearm.
2. Magpul MOE M-LOK Remington 870 Front Barrel Mount
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your Remington 870 shotgun with the Magpul MOE M-LOK Front Barrel Mount in black. This part easily replaces your old one. It gives you more room to work the pump action. It also has M-LOK slots. This means you can add all sorts of cool accessories.
What We Like:
- It’s a simple upgrade for your Remington 870 shotgun.
- The longer design makes it easier to handle your shotgun.
- M-LOK slots let you add lights, grips, and other gear.
- It makes your reliable Remington 870 even more useful for hunting, home protection, or work.
- The strong polymer build lasts a long time.
- The slim shape helps prevent it from catching on things.
- Everything you need to put it on is included.
What Could Be Improved:
- It does not work with the Remington 870 Super Mag model.
This barrel mount adds great flexibility to your Remington 870. It’s a smart choice for making your shotgun more capable.
3. Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2
Rating: 9.3/10
The Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 is a handy addition for Remington 870, TAC-14, and 1100 series shotgun owners. It easily attaches to your shotgun, giving you quick access to extra shells when you need them most. This holder is made to fit these specific Remington models, making it a secure and convenient accessory.
What We Like:
- It installs directly into the pin holes on the side of your shotgun’s receiver.
- No special tools or gunsmithing are needed for installation.
- It holds up to six 12-gauge shotgun shells, so you have plenty of backup.
- Monstrum backs this product with a lifetime warranty, which is fantastic.
What Could Be Improved:
- This side saddle is only compatible with specific Remington shotgun models (870, TAC-14, 1100 series).
- It will not fit other shotgun brands or models.
If you own a compatible Remington shotgun, this side saddle offers a straightforward way to carry extra shells. Its easy installation and sturdy design make it a practical choice for any shooter.
4. TacStar 1081157 Side Saddle
Rating: 9.1/10
The TacStar 1081157 Side Saddle is a handy accessory for your Remington 12 gauge shotgun. It puts extra shells right where you can grab them quickly. This makes reloading much faster when you need it most. The shell holder is made of tough polymer that won’t break and resists rust. A strong aluminum plate backs it up. You can install it yourself without needing a gun expert.
What We Like:
- Places extra shells within easy reach for fast reloads.
- Made from unbreakable, corrosion-resistant polymer.
- Features a sturdy aluminum backing plate.
- Easy to install without special tools or gunsmith help.
What Could Be Improved:
- May not work with all factory forends. If your shotgun has a field grade forend that extends to the sides of the receiver, it might prevent the shotgun from cycling properly. You would need to shorten the forend or get a different one, like a TacStar or Pachmayr forend. (Note: TacStar 4-shell side saddles work with all forend types without any changes.)
This side saddle is a great way to keep your shotgun ready for action. It offers quick access to extra shells and is built to last.
5. Streamlight 69601 TL-Racker 1
Rating: 9.0/10
The Streamlight 69601 TL-Racker is a powerful weapon light made just for the Remington 870 shotgun. It fits right onto the shotgun’s forend, replacing the original one. This light gives you a bright beam to see clearly, whether you are at home or on duty. It’s built tough to handle the recoil of a 12-gauge shotgun.
What We Like:
- It shines a very bright light with 1,000 lumens.
- The beam reaches far, up to 283 meters.
- It’s built right into the shotgun’s forend for a good grip.
- You can turn it on and off easily with buttons on both sides.
- It is very strong and can handle getting wet and being bumped.
- It is made to survive the strong kick of a 12-gauge shotgun.
What Could Be Improved:
- This light only works with a specific Remington 870 model (7 3/4″ action slide).
- It does not work with other Remington models or Mossberg FLEX models.
- It uses batteries that you can’t recharge.
This light is a solid choice for Remington 870 owners who need a reliable and bright weapon light. Its tough build and easy-to-use controls make it a great addition for home defense or tactical use.
Your Guide to the Legendary Remington 870 Shotgun
The Remington 870 is a true icon. It’s been around for a long time, and for good reason. People love it because it’s tough, reliable, and can do many jobs. If you’re thinking about getting one, this guide will help you understand what makes the 870 special and what to look for.
Why the Remington 870 is a Top Choice
The 870 isn’t just any shotgun. It’s a pump-action shotgun. This means you pull a pump handle back and forth to load a new shell. This action is simple and dependable. It’s been used by hunters, sport shooters, and even law enforcement for decades. Its reputation for being tough is well-earned.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking at Remington 870 shotguns, keep these features in mind:
- Action Type: It’s a pump-action. This is the most common and reliable type.
- Gauge: The most popular gauges are 12-gauge and 20-gauge. 12-gauge is the most common and has a wider variety of shells. 20-gauge is lighter and has less recoil, making it good for smaller shooters or some bird hunting.
- Barrel Length: Barrels come in different lengths. Shorter barrels (like 18 or 20 inches) are good for home defense or tactical use. Longer barrels (26 or 28 inches) are better for hunting, especially for birds.
- Stock and Forend Material: These parts can be made of wood or synthetic materials (like polymer). Wood looks classic and feels nice. Synthetic materials are tougher and resist weather better.
- Sights: Some 870s have simple bead sights. Others have rifle sights or ghost ring sights, which are more accurate for aiming.
- Choke Tubes: Many modern 870s use interchangeable choke tubes. These let you change how the shot pattern spreads. You can use different chokes for different types of shooting.
Important Materials
The Remington 870 is built with strong materials.
- Receiver: The main part of the shotgun is usually made of solid steel. This makes it very durable and able to handle a lot of use.
- Barrel: The barrel is also made of steel. It needs to be strong to withstand the pressure of firing a shotgun shell.
- Stock and Forend: As mentioned, these can be walnut wood or synthetic polymers. Both are chosen for their strength and ability to withstand recoil.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Build Quality: A well-made Remington 870 feels solid. The pump action should move smoothly without sticking. The fit and finish should be good, meaning the parts line up nicely.
- Maintenance: Like any tool, an 870 needs care. Regular cleaning and oiling will keep it working perfectly for years. Neglecting it can lead to rust or jamming.
- Upgrades: Many people customize their 870s. Adding different stocks, sights, or magazine extensions can improve its performance for specific tasks.
- Older vs. Newer Models: Some shooters believe older Remington 870s were built with even tighter tolerances and better steel. However, modern 870s are still very reliable and well-made.
User Experience and Use Cases
The Remington 870 is known for its versatility.
- Hunting: It’s a popular choice for hunting small game like rabbits and squirrels, as well as larger game like deer (with slugs) and waterfowl. Different barrel lengths and choke tubes help with various hunting situations.
- Sport Shooting: Trap, skeet, and sporting clays are popular sports where the 870 shines. Its reliability makes it a good choice for repeated firing.
- Home Defense: The 870 is a common sight in homes for protection. Its simple operation and stopping power make it effective. Shorter barrels are often preferred for this use.
- Tactical Use: Law enforcement and military units have used various versions of the 870 for their durability and adaptability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Remington 870
Q: What makes the Remington 870 so popular?
A: The Remington 870 is popular because it’s very reliable, tough, and can be used for many different things like hunting, sport shooting, and home defense.
Q: Is the Remington 870 easy to use?
A: Yes, it’s a pump-action shotgun, which is a simple and straightforward mechanism that most people can learn to operate easily.
Q: What’s the difference between a 12-gauge and a 20-gauge 870?
A: A 12-gauge shoots a bigger shell and has more power, but also more recoil. A 20-gauge shoots a smaller shell, has less recoil, and is lighter, making it easier to handle for some people.
Q: Can I change the barrel on a Remington 870?
A: Yes, many Remington 870 models allow you to swap out barrels to suit different purposes, like using a shorter barrel for defense and a longer one for hunting.
Q: What is a “choke” on a shotgun?
A: A choke is a device at the end of the barrel that controls how the shot spreads out. Different chokes are used for different shooting distances and types of targets.
Q: Are older Remington 870s better than new ones?
A: Some people think older ones were made with slightly better materials, but modern Remington 870s are still very well-made and reliable.
Q: How do I clean my Remington 870?
A: You should clean it regularly by taking it apart, wiping down the parts with a cleaning solvent, and then oiling them to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Q: Can a Remington 870 be used for self-defense?
A: Yes, the Remington 870 is a very common and effective choice for home defense due to its reliability and stopping power.
Q: What kind of ammunition can I use in a Remington 870?
A: You can use various types of shotgun shells, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs, depending on what you are using the shotgun for. Always check your shotgun’s manual for recommended ammunition types.
Q: Where can I buy a Remington 870?
A: You can buy them at most licensed firearm dealers, gun stores, and some sporting goods stores. You must follow all local and federal laws for purchasing firearms.
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.
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