Description
The Remington 870 Express 12 Ga, 26 3 Wood Black is a classic, budget-friendly pump-action shotgun built for reliability. It features a 26-inch vent-rib barrel with a 3-inch chamber, a hardwood stock, and a durable matte black finish. This is the workhorse shotgun that defines value, offering proven performance for hunting, home defense, and recreational shooting without a premium price tag. At $379.00, it’s a foundational firearm that prioritizes function over flash.
Key Features
- Proven Pump Action: The legendary 870 action is known for its smooth, reliable cycling under all conditions.
- Versatile 26″ Barrel: The vent-rib barrel with a bead sight is ideal for swinging on clays or upland birds.
- 3″ Chamber: Handles a wide range of 12-gauge loads, from light target loads to powerful magnum shells.
- Classic Wood Stock: Durable hardwood provides a traditional look and feel that many shooters prefer.
- Budget-Friendly Price: Offers the core 870 experience at a price point that’s hard to beat.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 26″ Vent Rib |
| Overall Length | Approx. 46.5″ |
| Stock | Hardwood |
| Finish | Matte Black Metal / Wood |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, a feature not always found on entry-level shotguns. This shotgun weighs in at a manageable 7.5 pounds, providing a good balance between stability for shooting and carry-ability in the field. It’s a simple tool, but that simplicity is its greatest strength—there are fewer parts to fail and a design that’s been refined over decades.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the shotgun for the first-time buyer, the budget-conscious hunter, or the homeowner seeking a dependable defensive tool. It’s for the shooter who values reliability above all else and understands that a classic design doesn’t need to be fancy to be effective. If you’re looking for a single, versatile shotgun to handle multiple roles without breaking the bank, this is a top contender. It’s also a fantastic platform for customization; a huge aftermarket exists for stocks, forends, magazine extensions, and sights, allowing you to build it out over time. Look, you can spend twice as much on a shotgun with a fancy coating, but will it be more reliable than an 870? Probably not.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: Unmatched reputation for durability and reliability. Straightforward operation with no gunsmithing required for basic use. Massive aftermarket support for parts and accessories from brands like Magpul, Mesa Tactical, and Nordic Components. Excellent value for the money—you’re paying for the proven action, not marketing fluff. The wood stock offers a classic aesthetic that synthetic stocks can’t match.
Cons: The Express finish is functional but not as corrosion-resistant as more expensive models—basic maintenance is key. The stock may have a less refined finish compared to higher-grade 870s. It comes with a basic bead sight, which is fine for most but may limit precision. Some users note the action can feel a bit stiff initially, but it smooths out with use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun be used for home defense?
A: Absolutely. While the 26″ barrel is longer than ideal for tight quarters, the 870 platform is a proven defensive tool. Many owners choose to add a shorter, 18.5″ barrel (sold separately) for dedicated home defense, which is a simple swap. The 4+1 capacity with 2.75″ shells is a solid start.
Q: How does it compare to the Mossberg 500?
A: This is the classic rivalry. Both are excellent, budget pump-actions. The 870 often has a slightly smoother action out of the box and a more traditional steel receiver. The Mossberg 500 uses an aluminum receiver and has a tang safety. The best answer is to handle both—the fit and feel are personal preferences, but you can’t go wrong with either for the price.
Q: What kind of choke does it use?
A: The Remington 870 Express typically comes with a Modified choke tube installed, which is a great all-around choice for hunting and clays. It uses the standard Rem Choke system, so you can easily and affordably swap in other chokes (like Improved Cylinder or Full) for different applications.
Ready to own a piece of American firearms history? The Remington 870 Express 12 Ga, 26 3 Wood Black is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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