A History Forged in Steel and Service
The Remington 870. The name itself whispers of a legacy. For decades, this pump-action shotgun has been a cornerstone of law enforcement and a trusted tool for personal protection. Within the 870 family, the 870 Police Magnum stands apart. This isn’t just another shotgun; it’s a purpose-built weapon, designed to withstand the rigors of duty and the demands of high-stakes situations. This 870 Police Magnum review dives deep into its history, features, performance, and suitability for various applications, providing a comprehensive understanding of why this classic remains a relevant choice.
The story of the Remington 870 begins not with a flash of gunfire, but with a need. Remington, a company with a long and storied history in firearms manufacturing, recognized the need for a modern, reliable pump-action shotgun in the years following World War II. The Model 31, while a decent firearm, was proving costly to manufacture. The design process prioritized simplicity, durability, and ease of production. The result, born in 1950, was the Remington 870 Wingmaster.
The Wingmaster quickly gained popularity, particularly amongst hunters. Its smooth action, durable construction, and relatively affordable price point made it an instant success. But Remington recognized the need extended beyond the hunting field. Law enforcement agencies across the United States and beyond began to see the potential of a reliable, easily operated shotgun for patrol duty and tactical situations.
Building on the solid foundation of the Wingmaster, Remington adapted the 870 to meet the specific requirements of police use. This evolution led to the development of the 870 Police Magnum. The modifications included heavier-duty construction, reinforced components, and features designed to enhance its reliability and operational performance in demanding environments. The 870 Police Magnum rapidly became a standard-issue weapon for countless police departments, solidifying its reputation as a reliable, dependable tool that law enforcement could depend on.
The 870 Police Magnum isn’t just a historical artifact. It’s a testament to good design, adaptability, and the enduring need for a robust, effective firearm. Its continued popularity across various applications, from home defense to sports shooting, further validates its status as a modern classic.
Unpacking the Core: Features and Specifications
The 870 Police Magnum is instantly recognizable. Its simple, rugged design speaks of functionality and reliability. It’s built to perform under pressure, and its features reflect this philosophy.
At the heart of the 870 Police Magnum is its receiver, typically machined from solid steel. This choice of material contributes significantly to its overall strength and durability. Steel is inherently resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for a firearm designed to withstand the rigors of repeated use and harsh conditions. The receiver provides a solid and stable platform for the action, ensuring consistent performance.
The barrel of the 870 Police Magnum is another key component. The length varies depending on the specific model, but the shorter barrel lengths are common in law enforcement configurations, providing improved maneuverability in confined spaces. The bore is generally smooth, designed to handle a variety of ammunition types. Choke options, though less common on the Police Magnum, may be available for some models, allowing the shooter to tailor the spread of the shot.
The magazine tube is another important element. The capacity is typically five to seven rounds, depending on the barrel length and any magazine tube extensions. The larger capacity magazine tubes increase the available firepower and are often favored by those who prioritize self-defense or tactical capabilities. The addition of an extension is often a customization many users undertake.
The pump-action mechanism is the defining characteristic of the 870. The action is renowned for its smooth and reliable operation. When the shooter pulls the forend rearward, it extracts the spent shell, and then, as the forend moves forward, it chambers a fresh round. The simple, robust design of the pump-action contributes to the 870’s legendary reliability. Malfunctions are rare, and the system is relatively easy to clear should one occur. The slide’s action feels solid and positive.
The stock and forend are equally important. The stock provides the shooter with a comfortable and stable point of contact for shouldering the weapon. The forend, which houses the pump-action, allows the shooter to operate the action quickly and efficiently. The materials used in the stock and forend can vary, but polymer is common in police models, chosen for its durability and resistance to the elements. The ergonomics are often designed with ease of use in mind.
Sighting systems on the 870 Police Magnum often feature bead sights or rifle-style sights. Bead sights are simple and effective for close-range engagements, while rifle sights offer greater accuracy at longer distances. Some models are also equipped with Picatinny rails, allowing for the attachment of optics such as red dot sights or reflex sights, increasing the versatility and effectiveness of the shotgun.
The trigger on the 870 Police Magnum is generally a straightforward, single-stage trigger. The pull weight is typically in the range of five to eight pounds. While not a competition-grade trigger, it is functional and adequate for its intended purpose.
Finally, the finish and coatings play a crucial role in protecting the 870 Police Magnum from corrosion and wear. Finishes such as parkerizing and matte black are common, providing a durable, low-glare surface that reduces the risk of rust and extends the life of the firearm. The 870 Police Magnum is built to withstand a tough environment.
Putting the Magnum to the Test: Performance and Handling
Any 870 Police Magnum review would be incomplete without a close examination of its performance in real-world scenarios. How does it handle? How does it feel to shoot? And most importantly, how reliable is it?
The shooting experience with the 870 Police Magnum is characterized by its solid feel and manageable recoil. The weight of the shotgun helps to absorb some of the recoil energy, making it more comfortable to shoot than some lighter shotguns. Recoil management is crucial, allowing for faster follow-up shots. Different types of ammunition will, of course, change the felt recoil, but overall, the 870 is relatively easy to control.
The handling of the 870 Police Magnum is another strength. The shorter barrel lengths, common in police configurations, make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The pump-action is smooth and relatively quick, allowing for rapid cycling of rounds. Experienced shooters can achieve impressive rates of fire, while the pump-action mechanism also contributes to safety, as it requires a deliberate action to chamber a round or eject a spent shell.
Reliability is arguably the most critical aspect of the 870 Police Magnum. The pump-action mechanism is known for its dependability. It’s relatively impervious to jams and malfunctions, and the design is straightforward to maintain. While every firearm can experience issues, the 870 Police Magnum consistently demonstrates its ability to function flawlessly under a wide range of conditions. Testing with different ammunition is important, but the 870 has proven itself with various loads.
The ergonomics are also well-considered. The stock and forend are designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip. The controls are generally easy to access and operate, and the shotgun can be easily adapted to suit different shooters. The balance feels good in the hands, promoting natural pointing and aiming. Loading and unloading are also relatively straightforward.
The Good and the Not-So-Good: Pros and Cons
Every firearm has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of the key advantages and disadvantages of the 870 Police Magnum:
The Advantages:
Proven Reliability: The 870 Police Magnum boasts a well-earned reputation for reliability. Its pump-action mechanism is robust and resistant to malfunctions, and it consistently performs under demanding conditions. This is a huge advantage for those who need a firearm that won’t fail.
Durability and Build Quality: The use of high-quality materials, such as steel, contributes to the 870 Police Magnum’s exceptional durability. This is a gun that is built to last, capable of withstanding years of use and abuse.
Ease of Maintenance: The 870 Police Magnum is remarkably simple to maintain. Disassembly and cleaning are straightforward, and the components are easy to access. This ease of maintenance ensures that the shotgun remains in optimal working condition.
Versatility: The 870 can handle a wide variety of ammunition types, from birdshot to buckshot to slugs. This versatility makes it adaptable to a wide range of applications.
Aftermarket Support and Customization: The 870 platform has been around for many years, resulting in a vast aftermarket of accessories and parts. From stocks and forends to sights and magazine extensions, the possibilities for customization are nearly endless.
Cost-Effective: Compared to some other shotguns, the 870 Police Magnum offers excellent value for money. Its combination of reliability, durability, and performance makes it a cost-effective option for both law enforcement and civilian use.
The Disadvantages:
Weight: The 870 Police Magnum can feel heavy, especially when fully loaded. This can be a consideration for those who prioritize maneuverability and long-term carrying.
Pump-Action Learning Curve: Pump-action shotguns require practice to operate smoothly and efficiently. New shooters may need some time to become proficient with the action.
Trigger Feel: While functional, the trigger on the 870 Police Magnum isn’t known for being exceptional. Some shooters may find the pull weight or feel to be less than ideal.
Rust Potential: While the finishes used on the 870 Police Magnum provide good protection, the potential for rust still exists, especially if the shotgun is not properly maintained.
Fields of Application: Where the 870 Shines
The 870 Police Magnum’s versatility extends to its applications:
Law Enforcement: The primary purpose of the 870 Police Magnum is law enforcement. Its dependability, stopping power, and ease of use make it an ideal tool for patrol duty, tactical operations, and crowd control.
Home Defense: For home defense, the 870 Police Magnum offers a potent combination of stopping power and ease of use. It’s a reliable choice for those who want a firearm for self-protection.
Hunting: While some variations may be suited for hunting, the 870 Police Magnum is better known for its tactical attributes. However, shorter barrels and heavier construction could be used for certain types of hunting.
Sports Shooting: The 870 Police Magnum can be used in sports shooting, particularly in practical shooting competitions. The robust design is well suited for this type of use.
Maintenance: Keeping the 870 in Top Condition
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the long-term reliability of the 870 Police Magnum. This involves regular cleaning, lubrication, and storage.
Cleaning should be performed after each use or at regular intervals, even if the shotgun hasn’t been fired. Disassembly is relatively straightforward. The barrel and action should be thoroughly cleaned to remove powder residue, lead fouling, and any other contaminants. A good quality gun cleaning solvent, bore brush, and cleaning patches are essential tools for this task.
Lubrication is equally important. A light coating of gun oil should be applied to the moving parts to reduce friction and prevent wear. Excess oil should be wiped away to prevent attracting dirt and debris.
Storage should be in a clean, dry environment. The shotgun should be stored unloaded, and care should be taken to protect it from the elements. A gun case or safe provides the best protection against damage and theft.
Final Assessments and Recommendations
The 870 Police Magnum is a classic for a reason. Its proven track record, rugged construction, and versatility make it a highly capable and reliable shotgun. It isn’t without its limitations, but its advantages overwhelmingly outweigh the disadvantages.
For those seeking a reliable and effective home defense tool, the 870 Police Magnum is an excellent choice. Its stopping power and ease of use make it a formidable option. Law enforcement agencies will also find it a worthy choice. The shotgun’s dependability is paramount in high-stakes situations.
The 870 Police Magnum isn’t the newest or most advanced shotgun on the market, but its enduring popularity is testament to its effectiveness. It is a trustworthy, no-nonsense firearm.
