The Remington 870 Express Magnum is a shotgun that has earned a reputation for reliability and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a sport shooter, or someone looking for a dependable home defense firearm, the 870 Express Magnum is a solid choice. Guys, let's dive into what makes this shotgun so popular, its features, how to maintain it, and some common upgrades.

Overview of the Remington 870 Express Magnum

A Brief History

The Remington 870 shotgun series has been around since 1950, quickly becoming one of the most popular and widely used shotguns in the United States. The 870 Express Magnum is a variant designed to handle both 2 3/4" and 3" shells, offering increased versatility for different shooting applications. Its robust design and affordable price point have made it a favorite among shooters of all levels.

Key Features

The Remington 870 Express Magnum comes packed with features that contribute to its reliability and ease of use:

• Durable Construction: Built with a solid steel receiver, the 870 Express Magnum is designed to withstand heavy use and harsh conditions.
• Versatile Chambering: The ability to handle both 2 3/4" and 3" shells means you can use a wide range of ammunition for various purposes.
• Smooth Action: The pump-action mechanism is known for its smooth and reliable cycling, ensuring consistent performance.
• Multiple Choke Options: Many models come with interchangeable choke tubes, allowing you to adjust the shot pattern for different shooting scenarios.
• Simple Design: The straightforward design makes it easy to maintain and repair, even for those with limited gunsmithing experience.

Why Choose the Remington 870 Express Magnum?

Choosing the right shotgun depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Remington 870 Express Magnum stands out for several reasons. First, its reliability is legendary. The robust construction and simple design mean there are fewer things that can go wrong. This makes it a dependable choice for home defense or hunting trips where you can't afford a malfunction. Second, the versatility of the 870 Express Magnum is a major selling point. Whether you're shooting clays, hunting waterfowl, or keeping it handy for home defense, the ability to use different types of shells and chokes makes it adaptable to various situations. Third, the affordability of the 870 Express Magnum makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters. You get a lot of bang for your buck with this shotgun, without sacrificing quality or performance. Finally, the aftermarket support for the 870 is extensive. There are countless accessories and upgrades available, allowing you to customize your shotgun to fit your specific needs. Whether you want to add a new stock, a different forend, or tactical accessories, the possibilities are endless. In summary, the Remington 870 Express Magnum is a reliable, versatile, affordable, and customizable shotgun that is well-suited for a wide range of shooting applications. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and performance. For anyone looking for a dependable shotgun, the 870 Express Magnum is definitely worth considering.

Using the Remington 870 Express Magnum

Ideal Shooting Applications

The Remington 870 Express Magnum is a versatile shotgun suitable for various shooting applications. Let's explore some of the most common uses:

• Hunting: The 870 Express Magnum is a popular choice for hunting various game, including waterfowl, upland birds, and deer. With the right choke and ammunition, it can deliver excellent performance in the field.
• Sport Shooting: Many shooters use the 870 Express Magnum for trap, skeet, and sporting clays. Its smooth action and reliable performance make it a great option for these disciplines.
• Home Defense: The 870 Express Magnum is also a popular choice for home defense. Its intimidating sound and powerful payload can be a deterrent to intruders, and its simple operation makes it easy to use in a high-stress situation.

Ammunition Selection

Choosing the right ammunition is crucial for optimal performance with your Remington 870 Express Magnum. Here are some considerations:

• Shell Size: The 870 Express Magnum can handle both 2 3/4" and 3" shells. 2 3/4" shells are generally used for target shooting and upland bird hunting, while 3" shells offer more power for waterfowl hunting and home defense.
• Shot Size: The appropriate shot size depends on the game you're hunting or the intended use. Smaller shot sizes like #7.5 or #8 are ideal for target shooting and small game, while larger shot sizes like #4 or #2 are better for waterfowl. For home defense, buckshot is a common choice.
• Load Type: Different load types are available for different purposes. Birdshot is used for hunting birds, buckshot is used for home defense, and slugs are used for hunting deer. Choose the load type that is appropriate for your intended use.

Proper Shooting Techniques

To get the most out of your Remington 870 Express Magnum, it's important to use proper shooting techniques. Here are some tips:

• Stance: A good shooting stance provides a stable platform for accurate shooting. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your weight evenly distributed.
• Grip: A firm grip on the forend and stock is essential for controlling recoil. Use your support hand to pull the forend back towards your body, and use your shooting hand to maintain a firm grip on the stock.
• Sight Alignment: Proper sight alignment is crucial for accurate shooting. Align the bead or sights on the barrel with your target.
• Follow Through: After pulling the trigger, continue to hold your sights on the target and maintain your stance. This will help you stay on target and improve your accuracy.

Mastering the Remington 870 Express Magnum involves understanding its diverse applications, carefully selecting ammunition, and employing proper shooting techniques. The shotgun’s adaptability makes it a reliable companion for various scenarios. Whether you're pursuing game in the field, breaking clays at the range, or ensuring home security, this shotgun offers consistent performance when paired with the right ammunition and techniques. Therefore, choosing the appropriate ammunition is essential to optimize your shotgun’s performance. The versatility of the 870 Express Magnum also extends to its use in sport shooting, where its smooth action and dependable performance make it an ideal choice for disciplines like trap, skeet, and sporting clays. By following the tips outlined above, you can maximize your accuracy and overall shooting experience. Remember to practice regularly and seek guidance from experienced shooters to refine your skills further. Whether you're a novice or an experienced shooter, the Remington 870 Express Magnum offers a reliable and versatile platform for various shooting endeavors. Embrace its capabilities, hone your techniques, and enjoy the rewarding experience of mastering this iconic shotgun. Ultimately, the 870 Express Magnum is more than just a firearm; it's a tool that, when wielded with skill and knowledge, can enhance your shooting pursuits.

Maintaining Your Remington 870 Express Magnum

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is essential for keeping your Remington 870 Express Magnum in top condition. A clean shotgun is a reliable shotgun. After each use, follow these steps:

1. Disassemble the Shotgun: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for disassembling your shotgun. Usually, this involves removing the barrel and the trigger group.
2. Clean the Barrel: Use a bore brush and solvent to scrub the inside of the barrel. Follow this with a clean patch to remove any remaining residue.
3. Clean the Receiver and Action: Use a brush and solvent to clean the receiver and action. Pay attention to areas where carbon and powder residue tend to accumulate.
4. Lubricate: Apply a light coat of gun oil to all moving parts. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as this can attract dirt and grime.
5. Reassemble: Reassemble the shotgun according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Seasonal Maintenance

In addition to regular cleaning, seasonal maintenance is also important. Before each hunting season or after extended storage, perform the following:

• Inspect for Wear and Damage: Check all parts for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Replace any worn or damaged parts.
• Deep Clean: Perform a thorough cleaning of all parts, paying attention to hard-to-reach areas.
• Lubricate: Apply a fresh coat of gun oil to all moving parts.
• Check Springs: Inspect the springs in the trigger group and action. Replace any weak or worn springs.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is crucial for protecting your Remington 870 Express Magnum from damage and corrosion. Follow these tips:

• Clean Before Storing: Always clean your shotgun before storing it.
• Store in a Dry Place: Store your shotgun in a dry place, away from moisture and humidity.
• Use a Gun Case: Store your shotgun in a gun case to protect it from dust, dirt, and scratches.
• Consider a Gun Safe: If you have children or unauthorized individuals in your home, consider storing your shotgun in a gun safe.

Maintaining the Remington 870 Express Magnum is critical for ensuring its longevity, reliability, and optimal performance. Regular cleaning, seasonal maintenance, and proper storage are essential components of a comprehensive maintenance routine. By adhering to these practices, you can preserve the condition of your shotgun, ensuring it remains dependable and accurate for years to come. Regularly cleaning your shotgun prevents the accumulation of fouling and corrosion, which can impede its functionality and diminish its lifespan. Seasonal maintenance allows for a more thorough inspection and care, addressing any wear and tear that may have occurred over time. Proper storage safeguards the shotgun from environmental elements that can cause damage. Neglecting maintenance can lead to malfunctions, reduced accuracy, and even safety hazards. A well-maintained shotgun not only performs better but also provides peace of mind, knowing that it will function reliably when needed. Investing time and effort into maintaining your Remington 870 Express Magnum is an investment in its long-term performance and your safety.

Upgrades and Accessories for the Remington 870 Express Magnum

Stocks and Forends

Upgrading the stock and forend can improve the ergonomics and handling of your Remington 870 Express Magnum. Some popular options include:

• Synthetic Stocks: Synthetic stocks are more durable and weather-resistant than wood stocks.
• Pistol Grip Stocks: Pistol grip stocks offer improved control and maneuverability.
• Adjustable Stocks: Adjustable stocks allow you to customize the length of pull for a better fit.
• Tactical Forends: Tactical forends often include Picatinny rails for mounting accessories.

Sights and Optics

Adding sights or optics can improve your accuracy with the Remington 870 Express Magnum. Here are some options:

• Ghost Ring Sights: Ghost ring sights are easy to acquire and provide a clear sight picture.
• Red Dot Sights: Red dot sights offer fast target acquisition and are ideal for close-range shooting.
• Scopes: Scopes provide magnification for longer-range shooting.

Other Accessories

There are many other accessories available for the Remington 870 Express Magnum, including:

• Choke Tubes: Interchangeable choke tubes allow you to adjust the shot pattern for different shooting scenarios.
• Shell Holders: Shell holders provide convenient storage for extra ammunition.
• Slings: Slings make it easier to carry your shotgun in the field.
• Lights: Weapon-mounted lights are essential for home defense.

Upgrading and accessorizing your Remington 870 Express Magnum allows you to tailor it to your specific needs and preferences, enhancing its performance and usability. Whether you're looking to improve ergonomics, accuracy, or functionality, there's a wide array of options available to customize your shotgun. Upgrading the stock and forend can significantly impact the handling and comfort of your shotgun. Synthetic stocks offer increased durability and weather resistance, while pistol grip stocks provide enhanced control and maneuverability. Adjustable stocks allow you to fine-tune the fit for optimal shooting posture. Adding sights or optics can greatly improve your accuracy, especially in different lighting conditions. Ghost ring sights offer a quick and intuitive aiming solution, while red dot sights excel in close-quarters engagements. Scopes provide magnification for longer-range shots, making them suitable for hunting applications. In addition to these upgrades, numerous other accessories can further enhance your Remington 870 Express Magnum. Choke tubes allow you to adjust the shot pattern for various shooting scenarios, while shell holders provide convenient access to extra ammunition. Slings make it easier to carry your shotgun in the field, and weapon-mounted lights are essential for home defense scenarios. By carefully selecting and installing the right upgrades and accessories, you can transform your Remington 870 Express Magnum into a versatile and personalized firearm that meets your unique requirements.

The Remington 870 Express Magnum is more than just a shotgun; it's a platform that can be adapted to fit almost any need. Its reliability, versatility, and the availability of aftermarket parts make it a favorite among shooters worldwide. Whether you're a hunter, a sport shooter, or someone looking for a home defense weapon, the 870 Express Magnum is a solid choice that will serve you well for years to come.