Description
The Escort M87 , 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 5 Rd, 3″ Chamber is a no-frills, reliable pump-action shotgun designed for utility and affordability. It’s a workhorse built for hunting, home defense, and recreational shooting, offering a great balance of manageable 20-gauge recoil and a handy 26-inch barrel length. At $215.63, it’s a budget-friendly entry into a dependable scattergun.
Key Features
- 20-Gauge Versatility: Lighter recoil than a 12-gauge makes it excellent for new shooters, smaller-framed individuals, or anyone who wants a softer-shooting experience.
- 26-Inch Barrel: A sweet spot for handling. It’s long enough for smooth swings on clays or birds but still compact enough for home defense scenarios.
- 5+1 Capacity: The 5-round tube magazine gives you solid capacity for most tasks, from a day in the field to a defensive situation.
- 3-Inch Chamber: Handles the full range of 20-gauge shells, from light 2¾-inch target loads to heavier 3-inch magnums for waterfowl or turkey.
- Pump-Action Reliability: Simple, robust mechanics that cycle reliably with proper technique. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of mixed birdshot and buckshot through one with zero hiccups.
Specs & Details
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Action | Pump |
| Choke | Likely Modified (Fixed) or Accepts Standard Invector-style Tubes* |
*Choke system can vary; many of these value-oriented shotguns use a fixed modified choke, which is a great all-purpose constriction. Some may accept common aftermarket choke tubes from brands like Carlson’s or Tru-Choke, but you’d need to verify the specific threading.
Who It’s For
Look, this isn’t a fancy over-under. It’s a tool. The Escort M87 is perfect for the first-time shotgun buyer on a tight budget, the Missouri landowner who needs a reliable varmint and predator gun, or the seasoned shooter looking for a dedicated beater shotgun for the truck or cabin. It’s also a solid choice for introducing a younger shooter or someone recoil-sensitive to shotgunning, thanks to that 20-gauge chambering. The 26-inch barrel provides a 44.5-inch overall length, making it maneuverable without being too short.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The price is the biggest advantage—you get a functional firearm without breaking the bank. The 20-gauge is genuinely pleasant to shoot all day. The 26-inch barrel is a versatile length, and the simple pump action is famously durable. It’s drop-in ready for a basic sling and likely compatible with many standard 20-gauge accessories.
Cons: Fit and finish are utilitarian; expect a basic blued or parked finish and a synthetic stock that feels functional, not premium. The action might be a bit stiff out of the box but will smooth with use. Sights are typically just a simple bead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Escort M87 a good home defense shotgun?
A: It can be. The 20-gauge with proper defensive loads (like buckshot) is very effective and offers faster follow-up shots due to less recoil. The 26-inch barrel is a bit long for tight quarters, but it’s workable. Just remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases is the law.
Q: Can I use it for duck or turkey hunting in Missouri?
A: Absolutely. With 3-inch chamber, you can use steel shot for waterfowl and heavy turkey loads. The 26-inch barrel helps with swing on passing ducks. Always check current Missouri Department of Conservation regulations for specific gauge and ammunition restrictions.
Q: What’s the real-world difference between 12-gauge and 20-gauge?
A: Recoil and payload. A 20-gauge kicks noticeably less, making practice more enjoyable. While a 12-gauge throws more shot, modern 20-gauge shells are incredibly effective for everything up to geese and turkey. For most upland game, clays, and defense, the 20-gauge is more than sufficient.
Final Thoughts
Here’s the thing—the Escort M87 , 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 5 Rd, 3″ Chamber delivers exactly what it promises: a straightforward, reliable shotgun at an accessible price point. It won’t win beauty contests, but it will go bang every time you work the action. It’s a fantastic value for someone who needs a dependable tool without the bells and whistles. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If a simple, affordable 20-gauge pump fits your needs, it’s hard to argue with the logic here.
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