Let's dive deep into the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum 12 Gauge. This shotgun is a workhorse known for its reliability and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a sport shooter, or someone looking for a dependable home defense firearm, the 870 Express Super Magnum is a contender worth considering. In this review, we'll explore its features, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it's the right shotgun for you.

Overview of the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum

The Remington 870 has been a staple in the shotgun world for decades, and the Express Super Magnum variant is built to handle everything from light target loads to heavy 3.5-inch magnum shells. This makes it incredibly adaptable for various shooting applications. The 870's robust design and smooth action have earned it a reputation for dependability, even in harsh conditions. The Express Super Magnum retains these core qualities while offering the added benefit of cycling those larger magnum rounds, providing extra power when you need it. For the longest time, this shotgun has been a go to option for many shotgun enthusiasts and has been the foundation for new shotgun owners.

Key Features and Specifications

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's take a look at some of the key features and specifications of the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum:

• Gauge: 12 Gauge (chambered for 2 3/4", 3", and 3 1/2" shells)
• Action: Pump-action
• Capacity: Typically 4+1 (depending on the magazine plug)
• Barrel Length: Available in various lengths, commonly 26" or 28"
• Choke: Usually comes with a Rem Choke system (interchangeable chokes)
• Stock and Forend: Synthetic or wood options available
• Sights: Bead sight or scope-ready receiver
• Weight: Around 7.5 pounds (depending on the configuration)
• Finish: Matte black or other available finishes

Design and Build Quality

The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum is built with a no-nonsense approach. The receiver is made from solid steel, providing a sturdy foundation for the action. The matte black finish on most models is practical, reducing glare and offering some protection against the elements. While the Express models are often seen as more utilitarian compared to the higher-end 870 variants, they still maintain a decent level of fit and finish. The synthetic stock and forend are durable and weather-resistant, making them a good choice for hunters who frequently encounter challenging conditions. Of course, wood stock options are also available if you prefer a more classic look and feel. The overall design prioritizes function and reliability, which is exactly what you want in a shotgun that's built to last.

Performance and Handling

Shooting Experience

When it comes to shooting, the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum delivers a solid performance. The pump-action is smooth and reliable, allowing for quick follow-up shots. The ability to handle 3.5-inch magnum shells means you can take on waterfowl, turkey, or even larger game with confidence. However, be prepared for some recoil when shooting those heavy loads! The recoil pad does a decent job of absorbing some of the impact, but it's still a stout kick. With lighter target loads, the 870 is much more manageable and enjoyable to shoot for extended periods. Proper shooting form and a good stance are essential to managing recoil effectively, especially with magnum loads. Like all shotguns, different loads will produce different results so testing with your preferred ammunition is highly recommended. The feedback from users is generally positive with most stating the shotgun performed admirably with different loads with minimal issues.

Accuracy and Range

Accuracy with a shotgun depends heavily on the choke and the type of load you're using. The Rem Choke system allows you to easily swap out chokes to optimize your shot pattern for different ranges and applications. A tighter choke, like a full choke, will keep your shot pattern tighter at longer distances, making it ideal for turkey hunting. A more open choke, like a cylinder or improved cylinder, will spread the shot out more quickly, making it better for close-range targets like upland birds or home defense. The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum is capable of delivering accurate and consistent patterns when paired with the right choke and load combination. It’s always a good idea to pattern your shotgun at different distances to see how your chosen load performs with each choke.

Reliability and Maintenance

One of the biggest selling points of the Remington 870 is its reliability. The simple and robust design means there are fewer things that can go wrong. The Express Super Magnum is no exception. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to keep it running smoothly, especially after shooting in wet or dirty conditions. Disassembly is straightforward, making it easy to access the important parts for cleaning. It’s a good practice to clean the barrel, receiver, and trigger group after each use. A thorough cleaning and lubrication every few hundred rounds will help ensure your 870 continues to function flawlessly for years to come. Some users have reported occasional issues with the finish on the Express models, but these are usually cosmetic and don't affect the gun's performance.

Ergonomics and Handling

Stock and Forend

The stock and forend on the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum play a significant role in its overall handling. As mentioned earlier, you can choose between synthetic or wood furniture. The synthetic stock is practical and durable, standing up well to rain, mud, and other harsh conditions. It provides a solid grip, even when wet. The wood stock offers a more traditional look and feel, but it may require more care to protect it from the elements. The forend is comfortable to grip and provides ample surface area for a secure hold while cycling the action. The length of pull is standard, which may be suitable for most shooters, but some may prefer to customize it with aftermarket options to achieve a better fit.

Sights and Optics

The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum typically comes with a simple bead sight, which is adequate for many shooting applications. However, if you plan to use it for turkey hunting or other precision shooting, you may want to consider adding a scope or red dot sight. Many 870 models come with a receiver that is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, making it easy to install aftermarket optics. A red dot sight can significantly improve your speed and accuracy on close-range targets, while a scope can help you make precise shots at longer distances. Choosing the right optic depends on your intended use and personal preferences. There are a wide variety of aftermarket sights that work with the Remington 870 Platform that can quickly increase the value of the shotgun.

Recoil Management

Managing recoil is crucial, especially when shooting heavy magnum loads. The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum comes with a basic recoil pad, which helps to absorb some of the impact. However, if you find the recoil excessive, there are several aftermarket options available to further reduce it. A thicker recoil pad can provide more cushioning, while a recoil-reducing stock can significantly dampen the felt recoil. Proper shooting technique is also essential. Keeping the shotgun tight against your shoulder and using a proper stance will help you absorb the recoil more effectively. Practicing with lighter loads can also help you develop good shooting habits and build your tolerance to recoil before moving on to heavier loads. Its also important to consider any aftermarket options as the recoil can be a turn off for some shooters and finding a way to mitigate that is helpful.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum:

Pros:

• Versatile: Handles a wide range of loads, from light target loads to heavy 3.5-inch magnums.
• Reliable: Proven track record of dependability.
• Durable: Solid steel receiver and durable components.
• Affordable: Generally more budget-friendly than other high-end shotguns.
• Customizable: Wide range of aftermarket accessories available.

Cons:

• Recoil: Can be significant, especially with magnum loads.
• Finish: The finish on the Express models may not be as durable as on higher-end models.
• Bead Sight: The bead sight may not be ideal for all shooting applications.
• Weight: Can be heavy for some shooters, especially after extended use.

Potential Alternatives

If the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum doesn't quite fit your needs, here are a few potential alternatives to consider:

• Mossberg 500: A similarly priced and reliable pump-action shotgun with a strong following.
• Benelli Nova: Known for its smooth action and innovative design.
• Remington 870 Wingmaster: A higher-end version of the 870 with a more refined finish and features.
• Beretta A300 Outlander: A gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun that offers reduced recoil.

Final Verdict

The Remington 870 Express Super Magnum 12 Gauge is a solid and versatile shotgun that offers excellent value for the money. Its ability to handle a wide range of loads, combined with its reliability and durability, makes it a great choice for hunters, sport shooters, and home defenders alike. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end shotguns, it gets the job done without breaking the bank. If you're looking for a dependable pump-action shotgun that can handle just about anything you throw at it, the 870 Express Super Magnum is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for some recoil when shooting those magnum loads! The Remington 870 Platform has been a popular shotgun and continues to be one of the best options for shooters to this day.