Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a true workhorse of the shotgun world: the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum 12 Gauge. This shotgun has earned its stripes through decades of reliable service, and we're going to explore what makes it such a popular choice for hunters, sport shooters, and home defenders alike. We'll cover everything from its features and specifications to its performance in the field, so you can decide if it's the right shotgun for you.

Overview of the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum

The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, known for its ruggedness, versatility, and affordability. The Express Super Magnum variant takes that reputation a step further by offering the capability to chamber 2 3/4", 3", and the powerful 3 1/2" 12-gauge shells. This added versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from upland bird hunting to waterfowl hunting and even big game hunting with the right slugs. The 870 Express Super Magnum is built on a solid steel receiver, ensuring durability and longevity. Its simple and reliable pump-action design makes it easy to operate and maintain, even in harsh conditions. It typically comes with a black synthetic stock and forend, which are resistant to the elements and offer a comfortable grip. The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum is a shotgun that you can depend on, no matter what you throw at it. Whether you're wading through a swamp in search of ducks or defending your home, this shotgun will be ready to perform. Its versatility and reliability make it a true do-it-all shotgun for the modern shooter. The availability of aftermarket parts and accessories is another major advantage of the 870 platform. You can easily customize your shotgun to fit your specific needs and preferences, whether you want to add a scope mount, change the stock, or install a different choke tube. The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum is more than just a shotgun; it's a platform for customization and improvement, allowing you to create the perfect firearm for your individual needs. This shotgun is a testament to Remington's commitment to quality and innovation. It's a firearm that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among shooters of all levels. With its rugged construction, versatile chambering, and ease of use, the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum is a shotgun that will serve you well for years to come.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features that make the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum stand out:

• Chambering: As we've mentioned, the ability to chamber 2 3/4", 3", and 3 1/2" 12-gauge shells is a huge advantage. This allows you to use a wide variety of loads, from light target loads to heavy magnum loads for waterfowl or turkey hunting. This adaptability is a game-changer, allowing you to tailor your shotgun to the specific task at hand. Whether you're practicing at the range or pursuing game in the field, the 870 Express Super Magnum can handle it all.
• Action: The smooth and reliable pump-action is a hallmark of the 870 design. It's easy to operate, even under stress, and provides consistent cycling. The pump-action design is also inherently reliable, with fewer moving parts than semi-automatic shotguns, making it less prone to malfunctions. This reliability is crucial in situations where your life may depend on your firearm. The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum's pump-action is a testament to its simple yet effective design.
• Barrel Length: The 870 Express Super Magnum is typically available with a 26" or 28" barrel. These lengths are ideal for a variety of applications, providing a good balance between maneuverability and accuracy. The longer barrel also helps to reduce recoil and muzzle rise, making it easier to stay on target for follow-up shots. Whether you're swinging on fast-flying birds or engaging in tactical scenarios, the barrel length of the 870 Express Super Magnum is well-suited for the task.
• Stock and Forend: The black synthetic stock and forend are durable and weather-resistant. They provide a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet or cold conditions. The synthetic material is also easy to clean and maintain, making it ideal for use in the field. The stock and forend are also designed to absorb recoil, reducing fatigue and improving accuracy. The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum's stock and forend are built to withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting.
• Sights: The 870 Express Super Magnum typically comes with a single bead sight on the front of the barrel. While simple, this sight is effective for quick target acquisition. For more precise aiming, you can easily add aftermarket sights or optics to the receiver. The versatility of the 870 platform allows you to customize your sighting system to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a traditional bead sight or a modern red dot optic, the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum can accommodate your choice.

Performance and Handling

In terms of performance, the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum delivers consistent and reliable results. The pump-action is smooth and easy to cycle, even with heavy magnum loads. Recoil can be significant with 3 1/2" shells, but the weight of the shotgun and the recoil-absorbing stock help to mitigate it. Handling is generally good, although the shotgun can feel a bit heavy compared to some other 12-gauge models. The balance is well-centered, making it easy to swing on targets and maintain a consistent point of aim. The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum is a shotgun that inspires confidence, whether you're shooting clays or hunting game. Its reliability and accuracy make it a trusted companion in the field. The pump-action design ensures that you have complete control over the cycling of the action, allowing you to adjust your timing and technique to suit the situation. The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum is a shotgun that rewards practice and skill.

Pros and Cons

Let's weigh the pros and cons of the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum:

Pros:

• Versatile Chambering: The ability to shoot 2 3/4", 3", and 3 1/2" shells is a major advantage.
• Reliable Action: The pump-action is simple, durable, and easy to maintain.
• Affordable Price: The 870 Express Super Magnum is one of the most affordable 12-gauge shotguns on the market.
• Easy to Customize: A wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories are available.
• Durable Construction: The steel receiver and synthetic stock are built to last.

Cons:

• Recoil: Recoil can be significant with heavy magnum loads.
• Weight: The shotgun can feel a bit heavy compared to some other models.
• Finish: The Express model's finish is known to be less durable than higher-end 870 models.

Who is This Shotgun For?

The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum is a great choice for:

• Hunters: Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of game, from birds to big game.
• Sport Shooters: It's a reliable and affordable option for trap, skeet, and sporting clays.
• Home Defenders: The 12-gauge is a formidable defensive weapon, and the 870 Express Super Magnum is a reliable and easy-to-use choice.
• Budget-Conscious Shooters: It offers excellent value for the money.

Alternatives to the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum

If you're considering other options, here are a few alternatives to the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum:

• Mossberg 500: The Mossberg 500 is another popular pump-action shotgun that offers similar features and performance.
• Benelli Nova: The Benelli Nova is a more modern pump-action shotgun with a rotating bolt design.
• Stoeger M3000: The Stoeger M3000 is an affordable semi-automatic shotgun that offers faster follow-up shots.

Final Thoughts

The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum 12 Gauge is a reliable, versatile, and affordable shotgun that has earned its place as a classic. While it may not be the fanciest or most refined shotgun on the market, it gets the job done, and it does it well. If you're looking for a dependable workhorse that can handle a wide range of tasks, the 870 Express Super Magnum is definitely worth considering. So, if you're in the market for a new shotgun, be sure to give the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum a look. It might just be the perfect fit for your needs.