Description
The Remington 870 Express 12 Ga, 28 3 Wood Black is a pump-action shotgun built on the legendary 870 platform. It features a 28-inch vent-rib barrel with a 3″ chamber, a classic American walnut stock and forend, and a matte black metal finish. This is a no-frills, reliable workhorse designed for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense, priced at $379.00.
Key Features
- Proven 870 Action: The time-tested, rugged pump mechanism known for its durability and smooth operation.
- 28″ Vent-Rib Barrel: Provides a long sight plane for improved accuracy on clays and birds. The 3″ chamber handles a wide range of loads.
- Classic Wood Furniture: American walnut stock and forend offer a traditional look and durable feel.
- Matte Black Finish: A practical, non-reflective finish that resists corrosion and wear.
- Cross-Bolt Safety: Simple, positive safety located at the rear of the trigger guard for easy access.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Finish | Matte Black |
This configuration is drop-in ready for a wide array of aftermarket parts. The 870 platform’s ubiquity means you can easily find compatible accessories from brands like Magpul for stocks or Mesa Tactical for side-saddle shell carriers, allowing you to customize it for specific roles without gunsmithing. The 28-inch barrel and wood stock give it a balanced swing weight, making it a natural for field use. When it comes to home defense, this model can be adapted with a shorter barrel—a common and straightforward swap that many owners perform to create a versatile, multi-role firearm. The 7.5-pound weight helps manage recoil with heavier loads, a practical consideration for extended range sessions or hunting days.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is for the first-time buyer seeking a trustworthy, do-it-all shotgun, the hunter needing a reliable partner for waterfowl or turkey, and the practical shooter who values proven mechanics over flashy features. It’s also an ideal foundation for someone who wants to learn firearm maintenance and customization on a simple, forgiving platform. The classic wood and steel build appeals to those who appreciate traditional firearm craftsmanship but demand modern reliability. Look, if your priority is a tool that works every time you work the action, this is your starting point.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Legendary reliability and simple manual of arms. Massive aftermarket support for stocks, barrels, and accessories. The wood furniture provides a solid, classic grip. The 3″ chamber offers versatility from light target loads to heavy magnum shells. Its price point makes it an accessible entry into quality shotgunning.
Cons: The 28″ barrel is long for defensive use—though easily swapped. The factory finish may show wear more quickly than some modern coatings. At nearly 48.5 inches overall, it requires thoughtful storage. The express model uses some cost-saving manufacturing processes compared to higher-end 870 variants, which is reflected in the $379.00 price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this model suitable for home defense with the 28″ barrel?
A: While it can serve in that role, the barrel length is less maneuverable indoors. The great thing about the 870 is you can purchase an 18.5″ barrel separately for a direct swap, making it a highly effective defensive tool. Many choose to own two barrels for one receiver.
Q: What is the shell capacity?
A: The tubular magazine typically holds 4 rounds of 2 3/4″ shells, plus one in the chamber. Capacity can vary slightly with different shell lengths. With a total potential capacity of 5 rounds, it’s a practical setup for most field and sport scenarios. Remember, magazine plugs may be required for migratory bird hunting to comply with federal regulations.
Q: Does it come with any choke tubes?
A: The Remington 870 Express typically comes equipped with a Modified choke tube installed, providing a good middle-ground constriction for a variety of shooting. It uses the common Rem Choke system, so a wide selection of aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson’s or Truloke are available to tailor your pattern.
This Remington 870 Express 12 Ga, 28 3 Wood Black is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the product page for current availability and to start the process.




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