The Remington 870 Express in 20 gauge is a legendary shotgun, renowned for its reliability, versatility, and affordability. This guide delves into its features, performance, common uses, and considerations for potential buyers. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a home defender, or simply a firearms enthusiast, understanding the nuances of this classic shotgun is crucial.
Understanding the Remington 870 Express 20 Gauge
The Remington 870 Express 20 gauge offers a compelling blend of power and maneuverability, making it a popular choice for various applications. Its pump-action mechanism is known for its simplicity and rugged dependability, even in harsh conditions. This makes it a favorite among hunters, law enforcement, and home defense enthusiasts alike.
Key Features and Specifications:
- Gauge: 20 Gauge
- Action: Pump-action
- Capacity: Varies depending on the model and local regulations (typically 4+1)
- Barrel Length: Available in various lengths, impacting both accuracy and maneuverability.
- Stock: Typically features a synthetic stock, offering durability and weather resistance. Wood stocks are also available on certain models.
- Finish: Usually features a durable matte black finish, though variations exist.
Performance and Handling
The 20 gauge offers a lighter recoil compared to its 12 gauge counterpart, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions and ideal for smaller-framed shooters. While the reduced recoil is advantageous, it also means slightly less stopping power compared to a 12 gauge. This trade-off should be carefully considered depending on the intended purpose.
The Remington 870 Express's pump-action is smooth and reliable, allowing for quick follow-up shots. Its simple design minimizes the risk of malfunctions, a critical feature in high-stress situations.
Common Uses and Applications
The Remington 870 Express 20 gauge excels in a variety of situations:
Hunting:
- Small Game Hunting: Ideal for hunting rabbits, squirrels, and other small game, providing sufficient stopping power without excessive recoil.
- Upland Bird Hunting: The 20 gauge is a popular choice for hunting pheasants, quail, and other upland birds, offering a good balance between power and manageable recoil.
- Waterfowl Hunting: While possibly less powerful than a 12 gauge for larger waterfowl, the 20 gauge remains a viable option, particularly for smaller ducks and geese.
Home Defense:
Its reliability and ease of use make the Remington 870 Express a popular home defense shotgun. The shorter barrel lengths often seen in home defense models enhance maneuverability in close quarters.
Law Enforcement (Certain Models):
Some specialized models of the Remington 870 are used by law enforcement agencies for various purposes, though this usually involves heavier-gauge versions.
Considerations for Potential Buyers
Before purchasing a Remington 870 Express 20 gauge, consider the following:
- Intended Use: Your intended use (hunting, home defense, etc.) will influence your choice of barrel length, stock type, and other features.
- Recoil Sensitivity: The 20 gauge is less powerful than a 12 gauge, but recoil should still be considered.
- Ammunition Availability and Cost: 20 gauge ammunition is widely available, but the cost might vary depending on the type and manufacturer.
- Budget: The Remington 870 Express is relatively affordable, but prices vary based on the model and features.
Conclusion
The Remington 870 Express 20 gauge is a versatile and reliable shotgun suitable for a range of applications. Its ease of use, rugged design, and widespread availability make it a popular choice for both novice and experienced shooters. By carefully considering your specific needs and requirements, you can determine if the Remington 870 Express 20 gauge is the right shotgun for you. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and adhere to all applicable laws and regulations.
