Description
Imagine you’re clearing brush on your property, and a thicket rustles a little too close for comfort. Or maybe you’re securing your home after a long day, wanting something more substantial than a handgun on the nightstand. In those moments of practical need, you don’t want a finicky, expensive safe queen. You want a tool that’s simple, reliable, and ready. That’s where the classic pump-action shotgun earns its keep—and the Remington 870 DM Hardwood model delivers that legendary reliability with a modern, budget-friendly twist: a detachable box magazine.
The Remington 870 DM Hardwood 12 GA, 18.5″ Barrel, Detachable Magazine is a pump-action shotgun that modernizes the iconic 870 platform by replacing the traditional tube magazine with a detachable box magazine system. This allows for faster reloads and easier ammunition management while retaining the proven durability and simple operation of the original design. It’s a workhorse built for real-world use, not a showpiece, and its price point of $456.17 makes it a serious contender for anyone needing dependable firepower without breaking the bank. Here’s the thing—while tactical black shotguns dominate the market, the classic hardwood stock on this model offers a low-profile, traditional look that doesn’t scream “tactical” from the gun safe, which can be a practical advantage in itself.
The core appeal is in that detachable magazine. Swapping a loaded magazine is significantly faster than thumbing shells into a tube, especially under pressure or in low light. It also lets you easily switch between different ammunition types—a magazine of buckshot for defense, followed instantly by a magazine of slugs or birdshot for a different task. The system uses proprietary polymer magazines, but they are robust and the shotgun’s action remains the famously smooth and reliable 870 pump. This is a no-fuss firearm; it’s drop-in ready and requires no gunsmithing to get started. Just perform your standard function check, load up, and it’s good to go. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps the overall length manageable for home defense and vehicle use, with a cylinder bore choke that patterns effectively at short ranges.
Let’s talk trade-offs to understand the value. The detachable magazine system adds a slight bulk to the receiver compared to a standard 870. Some purists might miss the classic lines and the ability to top off the tube. That said, the practical benefit of rapid reloads for a defensive scenario is a compelling counter-argument. You’re getting the proven 870 action—one of the most prolific and trusted shotgun platforms ever made, with parts and aftermarket support everywhere—enhanced with modern convenience. The hardwood stock is durable and provides a solid cheek weld, though it may not be as grippy in all weather as a synthetic option. The total package weighs in at a manageable 7.5 lbs, heavy enough to soak up 12-gauge recoil but not so heavy it’s a burden to carry.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (2 3/4″ and 3″ shells) |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 Inches |
| Overall Length | 38.5 Inches |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | Typically 2+1 or 3+1 rounds (varies by magazine) |
| Stock | American Hardwood |
| Action | Pump Action |
Pros: Legendary Remington 870 reliability and aftermarket support. Detachable magazine enables faster reloads and ammo-type switching. Hardwood stock offers a classic, non-tactical aesthetic. The 18.5″ barrel is ideal for home defense and maneuverability. Excellent value at this price point for a feature-enhanced 870.
Cons: Magazines are proprietary and an extra cost. Slightly bulkier receiver than a tube-fed 870. Hardwood can be slippery compared to textured synthetics. Magazine well may limit some aftermarket stock options designed for standard models.
So who is this shotgun for? It’s for the Missouri landowner who needs a versatile tool for property patrol and pest control. It’s for the home defender who prioritizes simple, robust operation and the tactical advantage of a quick magazine change. It’s for the budget-conscious shooter who wants the 870 reputation but appreciates modern functionality. It’s also a great choice for someone who might want to share a shotgun with less experienced users—pre-loaded magazines simplify the process immensely. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable laws, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many rounds does the magazine hold?
A: The capacity can vary slightly, but these detachable magazine 870 models typically come with a 2 or 3-round box magazine. Combined with a round in the chamber, that gives you a 3+1 or 4+1 capacity. Additional magazines are available for purchase separately.
Q: Is the 870 DM compatible with standard Remington 870 parts and accessories?
A: Mostly, yes. The core receiver and barrel threading are the same, so many standard 870 barrels, stocks, and fore-ends will fit. The key difference is the magazine well, so any accessory that interfaces with or requires the standard tube magazine (like certain side-saddles or magazine tube extensions) will not be compatible.
Q: Can it fire 3-inch magnum shells?
A: Yes. The Remington 870 DM Hardwood is chambered for both 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells, giving you flexibility in your ammunition choice for different applications, from light target loads to powerful buckshot and slug rounds.
If you’re looking for a dependable, no-nonsense shotgun that blends timeless reliability with a practical modern upgrade, the Remington 870 DM Hardwood represents solid value. See the full details on our site.
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