Examining the Arsenal: Features and Build
At first glance, the Remington 887 Nitro Mag distinguishes itself through a distinctive design and construction. Its visual cues immediately signal a focus on resilience. The overall design philosophy centers on creating a shotgun that can withstand the rigors of use in various environments.
Taking a look at its specifications, you’ll find the standard offerings. This is typically a twelve-gauge shotgun. The chamber, a crucial element, is often designed to accommodate 3.5-inch magnum shells, a feature that extends its versatility to handle a wider range of loads for hunting. The barrel length varies, but common lengths include 26 inches. The overall length naturally follows the barrel’s dimension, offering a manageable package. The weight is an essential factor to assess for comfort, impacting how easily the gun can be shouldered and swung. The magazine capacity is another significant consideration; it’s usually standard for a pump-action shotgun. Finally, the action type is straightforward—a reliable pump-action, a time-tested design that offers consistent function.
The construction is where the Remington 887 Nitro Mag truly sets itself apart. The most notable feature is the ArmorLokt coating. This proprietary process encapsulates the barrel and receiver, providing a robust layer of protection against corrosion and wear. The ArmorLokt coating is designed to resist the harsh elements encountered during hunting or outdoor use. This feature is a key selling point, contributing to the shotgun’s reputation for durability. Materials are intelligently selected to enhance the gun’s longevity. Synthetic stocks, known for their resilience to weather and impact, are standard. Steel barrels provide the necessary strength and durability to handle the pressures of firing. The selection of these materials is a deliberate move to ensure the shotgun can endure the demands of frequent use. The overall feel and build quality inspire confidence, suggesting a firearm built to last. The solidity in the hand is evident, reassuring the shooter of its ability to withstand rigorous conditions.
The design elements further contribute to the shotgun’s utility. The receiver design, carefully crafted, is intended to house the action and provide a solid platform for operation. The stock and forend are typically made of synthetic materials, emphasizing ergonomic design for comfort and control during handling. Sights play a vital role in aiming accuracy, with bead sights being the most common configuration for quick target acquisition. Adjustable sights, if included, provide the shooter with more precision. The choke system, a crucial element in shot pattern control, uses the Rem Choke system allowing shooters to modify the spread of their shot pattern based on the target distance. The trigger mechanism is a core element for the shooter; the feel of the trigger is a personal preference, but the consistency of the trigger pull is a key element in achieving accuracy.
Performance and the Shooting Experience
When it comes to performance, the Remington 887 Nitro Mag offers a rewarding shooting experience. The recoil is often a primary point of discussion, particularly with the use of the 3.5-inch magnum chamber. Understanding the recoil is crucial for user comfort and control. It’s a trade-off with this gun; the power comes at a price of greater felt recoil. The shotgun’s ability to handle these powerful loads is a testament to its design.
Accuracy is assessed by patterning the shot at different distances, using various chokes and loads. The ability to consistently hit the target is essential for successful hunting or any shooting activity. The trigger pull feel and consistency are key to accurate shooting; a clean break and predictable pull weight enhance shot placement. The ease of operation, including the loading, unloading, and cycling of the action, contribute to the overall user experience. The Remington 887 Nitro Mag generally performs well in these areas, providing a smooth and reliable action.
Handling is a critical element of a shotgun’s performance. The balance and weight distribution of the 887 Nitro Mag is designed for a comfortable feel, which is key to accurate shooting. Shouldering the gun and acquiring the target are crucial. The forend design will have an impact on your swing. The shotgun’s maneuverability is tested in various scenarios, assessing its ability to be quickly brought to bear in tight spaces or during dynamic movements. This is important for both hunting and home defense applications. The design seems to be focused on all of the above elements.
The versatility of a shotgun is often defined by the types of ammunition it can handle. The Remington 887 Nitro Mag readily accepts a range of shell sizes, including 2 3/4″, 3″, and the powerful 3.5″ shells. It is designed to be compatible with a variety of chokes. The design of the choke allows the shooter to adjust the shot pattern for optimal performance.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
A thorough review needs to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of a product. The Remington 887 Nitro Mag has certain areas where it shines and others where it could improve.
The benefits include its remarkable durability, stemming from its ArmorLokt coating and rugged construction. The coating provides excellent protection against corrosion, making it a suitable choice for use in diverse weather conditions. The cost-effectiveness is a key appeal. The Remington 887 Nitro Mag offers good value for its features and performance, making it an affordable option. The reliability is generally very good. The pump-action mechanism is known for its dependability, offering consistent operation in various conditions. The shotgun’s versatility is another strong point. Its ability to handle different shell sizes and its suitability for both hunting and home defense tasks make it appealing.
However, the Remington 887 Nitro Mag has some weaknesses. The felt recoil can be significant, especially with magnum loads. This can affect the comfort of the shooter during extended use. The limited aftermarket options are something to consider. Compared to other popular shotguns, the availability of accessories and customization options for the 887 Nitro Mag may be limited. Aesthetics are subjective. While some users appreciate the rugged appearance, others might find it less visually appealing than other shotguns.
Comparison with Other Contenders
Understanding how the Remington 887 Nitro Mag compares to competitors helps to gauge its place in the market. Consider other pump-action shotguns available. This will usually include the Mossberg 500. The Mossberg 500 is a highly popular shotgun, known for its reliability and wide range of configurations. The Benelli Nova is another example of a pump-action shotgun with a reputation for ruggedness and good performance. In the arena of shotguns, there is a variety of models.
By comparing the Remington 887 Nitro Mag to these competitors, the key differences are immediately evident. Feature sets, performance characteristics, and price points often set these shotguns apart. These insights help prospective buyers to make an informed decision about which shotgun best meets their needs.
Understanding the Intended Users and Tasks
The ideal audience for the Remington 887 Nitro Mag varies. This shotgun is suited for a diverse range of users. Hunters will find it a reliable option for a wide array of game. It is also popular with those interested in home defense; the shotgun can deliver powerful firepower. Novice users appreciate its simplicity and straightforward operation, making it an accessible choice for those new to shotguns.
The most suitable applications for this shotgun are several. Waterfowl hunting, due to the ability to handle magnum loads, is a popular one. Turkey hunting is another, where its range and power come into play. Upland game hunting is also a possible use case, with the shotgun offering a versatile platform. The versatility of the 887 Nitro Mag makes it a practical solution for many different shooting applications.
For each application, the advantages and disadvantages should be considered. For hunting, the ruggedness and reliable operation are significant benefits. In home defense, its stopping power and ease of use are key.
Wrapping Up: Final Verdict
In conclusion, the Remington 887 Nitro Mag presents itself as a rugged and capable pump-action shotgun. The robust design, featuring the ArmorLokt coating, is a clear advantage. The ability to handle various ammunition types, including the potent 3.5-inch shells, adds to its appeal. The value for the price makes it a popular choice among shooters looking for a reliable firearm.
Is it a wise choice? The answer depends on the shooter’s needs. This shotgun is highly recommended for those who prioritize durability, value, and dependable performance. This is a great choice for hunters and those who are seeking a reliable tool.
Consider the Remington 887 Nitro Mag if you are seeking a pump-action shotgun that delivers on its promises of ruggedness and reliability. It is a solid option to consider when looking at shotguns.
