Bought my first shotgun: Remington 870 Magnum Marine

[Savago]

Gentlemen

It is being a while, work has kept me pretty busy (so no posts).


Just wanted to share that I've ordered my first shotgun: a Remington 870 Magnum Marine.

I considered other manufacturers (e.g. Benelli, Mossberg, Winchester, etc) and models (870 Police, Wingmaster, etc) but decided to go with the Remington 870 Marine Master for the following reasons:

a) Proven design.
b) Whole ecosystem of parts/upgrades for the Remington 870.
c) Should be rust free.
d) Proudly made in the USA!!!

Specs: https://www.remington.com/shotguns/pump-action/model-870/model-870-special-purpose-marine-magnum

A nice video review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2fb1VIiRYg

Now I got wait the mandatory 10 days to be able to start shooting it.



Mandatory photo:

[Chrisj CMA]

870 is my favorite shotgun. Stainless is a great choice. 

[Crackerborn]

As much as I like my old 870, I am looking at the new version (not sure of the #) that has a box magazine. Since the 870 is my truck box gun all through hunting season and I may hunt a variety of game from small birds to large mammals over the course of the season, the box magazine just makes sense for the ease of changing shells to the appropriate size for the game being pursued. If you are planning on trap or skeet, the 870 is a good beginning that won't break the bank like an Ithaca. For home protection, I recommend turkey loads rather than buckshot.

[Jess from VA]

It's not stainless, it's nickel plate.  Not really necessary for the added expense unless in a salt air (or other corrosive) environment, but a very nice durable finish nonetheless.  And you can't go wrong with an 870.

Couple things.  First, most of the experts write that a sling is not a great idea on a riot gun (18.5" bbl) kept mainly for home defense, as it can hang up on doorknobs or other things if you are defending yourself moving through the home (in the dark).  But, you can get a nice nylon sling that has the quick disconnect little posts that fit through the small holes on the 870's stock and bbl, that are quick on and off, so you can have a way to lug it over the shoulder if you want to.  You don't want a big fat one with shoulder padding (like for a hunting rifle), just a 1 or 1 1/4" nylon sling.  

Like these attachment points:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I0EWU5K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_dp_nkqfBbJ38W2SW?tag=manngun-20      

And I really don't like a sling that carries a whole row of extra shells, as it adds several clunky swinging pounds to the shotgun.  If you want a shell bandoleer, get one for around the waist or over the shoulder, or to hang near the shotgun.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=12+gauge+bandolier&i=sporting&crid=1R9AUMIW1LXL0&sprefix=12+gauge+bandoleer%2Csporting%2C204&ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_1_18

I do like to add a side saddle shell holder to the receiver (made for the 870, and easy on).  6 in the gun, and 6 on the sidesaddle. Wilson Combat (Scattergun Technologies) makes good stuff.  https://shopwilsoncombat.com/Side-Saddle-6-Round-Rem-870_1100_1187-Left-Side/productinfo/SGSS-U-6/

Most folks keep the shotgun in cruiser ready; meaning six in the gun tube (6 on the sidesaddle), no shell in the chamber, gun not cocked, safety on.  To go to work, you rack a shell and safety off.

If you want a light, I don't like the big expensive fat ones that are built into (and replaces) the for-end hand grip, you just get a lightweight clamp for the outer barrel that fits your chosen light. G G & G also makes good stuff.  Side saddles and light clamps.  https://www.gggaz.com/remington-870-1100-1187-accessories.html

Defense shotguns don't need fancy sights, but I do like the XS Big Dot tritium 2-part epoxy on night sight for 870 (for plain bead like yours)  https://www.xssights.com/Products.aspx?CAT=8269

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F98A0x1GnyM&feature=emb_title

Buy a pile of OO buckshot (for defense).  2 3/4" shells are what you want, not 3" magnums.
https://www.ableammo.com/catalog/winchester-buckshot-ww12c-gauge-pellets-1325-buckshot-rdscan-p-157836.html?utm_source=ammoseek&utm_medium=feed&utm_term=shotshells&utm_campaign=ammoseek

I also keep some #4 shells for a little less power (it's a bit easier on the furniture indoors), and a couple boxes of slugs.  

1 3/4" mini shells do not work in an 870 without modifications (which may then not let you use std 2 3/4" shells)
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/2506162922

If the solid butt stock on your shotgun is too long (probably not), you can get a bit shorter ones in replacement.

I have this Chote pistol grip stock on one of my 870s, and think the pistol grip gives better control of the shotgun, and you take up a decent portion of the recoil in your hand, and off the shoulder.  It makes handling the shotgun one handed much easier, like if you're using the other hand to call 911 while holding someone under arms. (and has the same sling attachment the Remington stock does)
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1006763528
 

[DGS65]

It's a great choice like old reliable!
The marine version is just the icing on the cake and if you happen to own a boat even better.
I own a few shotguns my favorite is a Mossberg 930 JM Pro semi automatic 9 plus 1 in the chamber. It is really meant for three gun competition but just an all around solid gun!

[Savago]

@Chris: me too! Love its simplicity and efficiency. One minor detail is that it is not stainless (that would be awesome!), but has some 'electroless nickel plating' whatever that is.

@Crackerboom: are you talking about the Remington 870 DM (Detached Magazine)? I came *this* close to buy it instead, but read some reports of it being prone to rust. But the idea of a magazine + pump action is quite awesome!

@Jess: all good advice, thanks! I was thinking about getting a Magpul stock (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_axVVswF78) have you used one of those before? The stock as it is now is short for the length of my arms.

@DGS65: I've been considering 3-guns (seems really fun!), but in California is not legal to buy a real AR-15, only an abomination that is either featureless or that behaves like a break-action rifle.

[Bighead]

@DGS65: I've been considering 3-guns (seem really fun!), but in California is not legal to buy a real AR-15, only an abomination that is either featureless or that behaves like a break-action rifle.

Once again MOVE!!!!!

[Jess from VA]

I was thinking about getting a Magpul stock, have you used one of those before? The stock as it is now is short for the length of my arms.

I have not.  But I like most all Magpul stuff, and that looks like a good functional unit with better than average pistol grip, and you can make it longer.  It's probably lighter than the original too.

You may want the matching M-lock fore end to go with it.  A light will mount right up to it. (Though I'd rather have a tritium front bead than a light.  Most of us know our house better than an intruder, and lights give away your position.  I think lights are better for duty hunting outdoors.  And loaded with 6 in the tube and 6 on a side saddle, keeping the weight down is a plus.)





And in shotguns, I greatly prefer tube to box magazine feeds.

[DGS65]

@DGS65: I've been considering 3-guns (seem really fun!), but in California is not legal to buy a real AR-15, only an abomination that is either featureless or that behaves like a break-action rifle.

Once again MOVE!!!!!
[/quote

Not like I live in the land of the free here in NY but I have done a couple of three gun matches and they are a ton of fun!
A good friend and shooting buddy moved away and I haven't even considered attending another event.  I still shoot tactical matches about once a month just to stay sharp!

[Chrisj CMA]

@Chris: me too! Love its simplicity and efficiency. One minor detail is that it is not stainless (that would be awesome!), but has some 'electroless nickel plating' whatever that is.

@Crackerboom: are you talking about the Remington 870 DM (Detached Magazine)? I came *this* close to buy it instead, but read some reports of it being prone to rust. But the idea of a magazine + pump action is quite awesome!

@Jess: all good advice, thanks! I was thinking about getting a Magpul stock (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_axVVswF78) have you used one of those before? The stock as it is now is short for the length of my arms.

@DGS65: I've been considering 3-guns (seems really fun!), but in California is not legal to buy a real AR-15, only an abomination that is either featureless or that behaves like a break-action rifle.

Learn something every day. I'd choose blued over nickel plated but it's still a great shotgun

[Crackerborn]

And in shotguns, I greatly prefer tube to box magazine feeds.   

If you only carry one gun for a variety of game (dove, duck, pheasant, turkey, goose, etc) then a box magazine makes more sense. Also at the end of the day, before the gun is put in it's case and stored for the trip home, the gun must be unloaded. A box magazine is easy to remove and store whereas with a tube one must work the action to eject the shells, then pick them up from where they land. I am not trying to convert any who prefer the tube over the box, just explaining my reasoning. During the proper season, if I come across an area that looks like it might have a certain type of game available on it, I will stop to explore the possibilities. Just like in the riding months, when a new road is an adventure waiting to happen. Now it's motorcycle related.

[Jess from VA]

And in shotguns, I greatly prefer tube to box magazine feeds.   

If you only carry one gun for a variety of game (dove, duck, pheasant, turkey, goose, etc) then a box magazine makes more sense. Also at the end of the day, before the gun is put in it's case and stored for the trip home, the gun must be unloaded. A box magazine is easy to remove and store whereas with a tube one must work the action to eject the shells, then pick them up from where they land. I am not trying to convert any who prefer the tube over the box, just explaining my reasoning. During the proper season, if I come across an area that looks like it might have a certain type of game available on it, I will stop to explore the possibilities. Just like in the riding months, when a new road is an adventure waiting to happen. Now it's motorcycle related.

I understand your reasoning completely.  I don't hunt, only defend.  If I'm moving around corners, using cover, going prone, yada, I don't want a mag to impede movement or hit things.  I especially wouldn't want a mag feed for one of the new 14" shotgun/handguns.

Now if I was defending any kind of large numbers of zombies, I'd be right on the mag bandwagon.  But then, I probably wouldn't be using a shotgun.

[Savago]

Gentlemen

An update: picked up the shotgun last Friday, had it partially apart for cleaning/lubing yesterday.

Planning to visit the range tomorrow to check how it shoots.

One question though: is the barrel supposed to sit flush in the receiver? It seems to have a small gap, please check the red arrows.

I must confess that I didn't notice how it was before taking the gun apart...

[Bronxboy]

My Dad bought me my 870 Wingmaster back in 1974. I have used it to hunt just about everything from Quail & Pheasants to Deer & Black Bear, also got real good at Skeet Shooting with it as well. I eventually bought the shorter slug barrel for it years later. I have many guns since then, but this one will always be a treasure to me. Congrats on the Purchase.

[Gavin_Sons]

Gentlemen

An update: picked up the shotgun last Friday, had it partially apart for cleaning/lubing yesterday.

Planning to visit the range tomorrow to check how it shoots.

One question though: is the barrel supposed to sit flush in the receiver? It seems to have a small gap, please check the red arrows.

I must confess that I didn't notice how it was before taking the gun apart...

Looks correct to me, I'll go get one of mine out and look.

[Gavin_Sons]

First picture is 12 gauge, second is 20
Don't mind how dirty they are. They are well used 
The 20 has lost almost all of its blueing. Thinking about having it stripped and ceracoated. Had my 11-87 special purpose done in OD green years ago and it has held up great.

[Jess from VA]

It really should go together only one way.... correctly.

[Savago]

@Gavins: thanks a lot for sharing photos of your Remingtons.


If all looks good on mine, I'm visiting the range next and will post an update!

[Gavin_Sons]

Another trick is to pull the pump back just a hair and push down on the barrel while you tighten the nut.

[Savago]

Gentlemen

Back from the range and got say... Damn! This thing is fun to shoot!

When I bought the shotgun, I asked for a 'soft charge' as I'm learning my way with shotguns and got a few boxes of Federal Top Gun i.e. 2 3/4 in, 1145 fps, 1 1/8 ounce, 2 3/4 dram.

Shot a box today, with shells colored after the flag (i.e. white/red/blue). I known for a fact that the colors *do* help with my feelings towards the flag!



Everything worked as expected: no failures to feed or to eject, gun cycled cleanly.

I guess next I should start experimenting with buck shot and slugs?

Thanks all for the suggestions and helping addressing my beginner's questions.

[Gavin_Sons]

Get you some 3 1/2" heavy shot if you really want to feel like an American.  don't come crying back here though. That is what I use for turkey hunting out of a super full custom choke. Holds a pattern the size of a soccer ball at 50 yards. Has taken a turkey down at 73 yards. And yes you really feel it when you pull the trigger. Especially out of a 870.

[Pappy!]

I am like Jess on this one.
Will have #4 shot as a starter followed up by self defense rounds or good old 00 Buckshot.
Also am a fan of the stainless or nickel as it makes for a great boat gun.