Sport Shooters. Calibers, Price, Reviews. The Remington 870 Express is one of the most iconic and best-selling pump-action shotguns in history. Introduced in 1987 as a budget-friendly alternative to the Wingmaster, the 870 Express quickly earned a reputation for rugged reliability, versatility, and affordable performance. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a trap shooter, or someone looking for a dependable home-defense firearm, the 870 Express delivers consistent results across the board. 🔧 Overview and Design The Remington 870 Express is built on the same legendary platform as the original 870, which has been in production since 1950. Its receiver is milled from a solid block of steel, ensuring durability and smooth operation. The shotgun features dual action bars, which prevent binding and twisting during cycling — a hallmark of its reliability. Key Features Remington 870: • Action Type: Pump-action • Receiver Material: Solid steel • Finish: Matte black oxide (blued on older models) • Stock Options: Hardwood or synthetic • Safety: Cross-bolt trigger safety • Sights: Single bead or vent rib (depending on model) ⛓️💥 Available Calibers and Barrel Lengths The Remington 870 Express is available in multiple gauges and configurations to suit different hunting and shooting needs: Caliber Options: • 12 gauge (most popular) • 20 gauge • .410 bore Barrel Lengths: • 18.5” (home defense/tactical) • 21” (turkey hunting) • 26” and 28” (upland game, waterfowl, trap/skeet) Chamber Sizes: • 2¾” and 3” shells (standard) • 3½” shells (Super Magnum models) 🧩 Modifications and Variants Remington 870 Remington offers several factory variants of the 870 Express, and the platform supports extensive aftermarket customization: Factory Variants: • Express Synthetic: Lightweight and weather-resistant • Express Super Magnum: Handles 3½” shells for large game and waterfowl • Express Tactical: Short barrel, extended magazine, and synthetic furniture • Express ShurShot Turkey: Camo finish, pistol grip stock, and extra-full choke Popular Upgrades: • Extended magazine tubes • Recoil-reducing stocks • Ghost ring or fiber optic sights • Picatinny rails for optics • Side saddles for extra shells 🎯 Performance and Effective Range The 870 Express is known for its tight shot patterns, smooth cycling, and consistent accuracy. With the right choke and load, it performs well across various hunting scenarios. Effective Range by Load Type: • Birdshot: 25–40 yards • Buckshot: 30–50 yards • Slugs: Up to 100 yards (with rifled barrel) Choke System: Remington’s RemChoke system allows shooters to swap choke tubes for different patterns — from cylinder to full choke. 🦌 Hunting Applications The Remington 870 Express is suitable for a wide range of game: Upland Birds: Pheasant, quail, grouse Waterfowl: Duck, goose (with steel shot and appropriate choke) Turkey: With extra-full choke and camo variant Small Game: Rabbit, squirrel Big Game: Deer (with rifled barrel and slugs) Its adaptability makes it a favorite among hunters who pursue multiple species throughout the year. 💬 User Reviews Remington 870: Pros and Cons Pros: • Legendary reliability — proven in field and tactical use • Affordable price — typically $400–$600 depending on configuration • Wide availability of parts and accessories • Smooth pump action with dual bars • Durable steel receiver — built to last Cons: • Basic finish — prone to rust if not maintained • Hard recoil pad — may require upgrade for comfort • Limited factory choke options — only one included with Express • Plastic trigger guard on newer models (older ones had metal) 💰 Price and Market Position The Remington 870 Express is positioned as a mid-range shotgun that offers premium performance at a budget price. It competes directly with the Mossberg 500 and Winchester SXP, but many shooters prefer the 870’s steel receiver and smoother action. Typical Retail Price: • Standard Express: $400–$500 • Tactical/Super Magnum: $550–$700 • Used Models: $300–$450 (depending on condition) 🏁 Why Shooters Choose the 870 Express • Proven Track Record: Over 11 million 870s sold worldwide • Versatility: One shotgun for birds, deer, and defense • Customization: Endless aftermarket options • Ease of Use: Simple takedown and maintenance • Community Support: Massive user base and online resources 📌 Conclusion The Remington 870 Express remains a top choice for hunters, sport shooters, and home defenders alike. Its robust construction, modular design, and field-proven reliability make it a timeless classic. Whether you’re breaking clays or stalking game in the woods, the 870 Express is a shotgun that won’t let you down. Looking for a shotgun that does it all? The Remington 870 Express might just be the last pump-action you’ll ever need.