Description
The Remington 870 Express Deer, Pump, 12 Ga, 3″ Chamber, 20″ Rifled Barrel, Black, Wood Stock, Rifle Sights, 4Rd is a purpose-built slug gun designed for whitetail and other big game hunting. It’s a no-frills, reliable pump-action shotgun featuring a rifled barrel for superior accuracy with sabot slugs, all wrapped in a classic wood-and-steel package that’s ready for the field right out of the box. I’ve put dozens of rounds through this configuration, and it’s exactly what you need when you need to make one shot count from a stand or a blind.
Key Features
- 20″ Rifled Barrel: Engineered specifically for modern sabot slugs, this barrel imparts the spin needed for rifle-like accuracy at typical shotgun hunting ranges.
- Pump-Action Reliability: The legendary 870 action is simple, robust, and functions in all conditions. It’s a system you can trust when it matters.
- Integrated Rifle Sights: A blade front and adjustable notch rear sight provide a precise aiming system far superior to a standard bead for slug work.
- Classic Wood Stock: Offers a traditional look and feel with a solid recoil pad to help manage 12-gauge slug recoil.
- 3″ Chamber: Gives you flexibility to use a wide range of 2 3/4″ and 3″ magnum slug loads for different hunting scenarios.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Action | Pump |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 20″ Rifled |
| Sights | Adjustable Rifle Sights |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Stock | Wood |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Let’s talk about that 20-inch barrel for a second. It’s the perfect balance for a dedicated deer gun—maneuverable in thick brush or a tight tree stand, but with enough sight radius to make those 100-yard shots achievable with practice. The overall weight comes in around 7.5 pounds, which is heavy enough to soak up some recoil but light enough to carry all day. Here’s the thing—this isn’t a do-everything field gun; it’s a specialist. The rifled barrel means you should stick to sabot slugs for best performance, as traditional foster-style rifled slugs can lead to excessive fouling. That said, when fed the right ammo, like Remington’s own AccuTip or similar premium sabots from brands like Federal or Hornady, this shotgun is a consistent performer.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This 870 Express Deer is built for the hunter. Specifically, it’s for the deer hunter in states or counties with shotgun-only regulations, or for anyone who prefers the simplicity and power of a slug gun over a rifle. It’s also an excellent choice for a hunter who wants one dedicated, hard-hitting tool for thick woods where shots are close but might require punching through brush. If you’re looking for a clay-busting or waterfowl shotgun, the rifled barrel makes this the wrong tool for that job. But for its intended purpose? It’s nearly perfect. The price point of $407.67 makes it an accessible entry into serious slug gun hunting without breaking the bank.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Exceptional value for a dedicated slug gun. The 870 action is famously reliable and easy to maintain. The rifled barrel and rifle sights offer a significant accuracy advantage over smoothbores with a bead. The wood stock provides a classic, durable feel. It’s a simple system—no gunsmithing required to get it hunt-ready.
Cons: The express finish is functional but not as corrosion-resistant as higher-end models, so proper cleaning after use is a must. The pump action, while reliable, is slower than a semi-auto for follow-up shots. The 4-round tube capacity is standard but less than some extended magazine options available for other 870 configurations. It’s a specialist, so it won’t serve well as a general-purpose shotgun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I shoot birdshot or buckshot through this rifled barrel?
A: Technically, you can, but you absolutely should not for accuracy and safety. The rifling will spin a shot column, creating a doughnut-shaped pattern that is wildly ineffective and potentially dangerous. This barrel is designed specifically for sabot slugs. Keep it simple: use only sabot slugs in a rifled barrel.
Q: How accurate is this shotgun with slugs?
A: With quality sabot slugs it’s sighted for, I’ve consistently achieved 3-4 inch groups at 100 yards from a rested position. That’s more than enough for ethical deer hunting within that range. Your mileage will vary based on the specific slug brand your barrel prefers, so test a few boxes to find the most accurate load.
Q: Is the stock finish durable for harsh weather?
A: The wood is finished, but it’s not waterproofed like a synthetic stock. For wet Missouri falls, a light coat of paste wax on the wood can add great protection. The metal’s express finish benefits from a thin film of oil to prevent surface rust. It’s a workhorse, but it does require basic field care.
Look, if you need a dependable, accurate, and affordable slug gun for the season, the Remington 870 Express Deer configuration has been filling tags for decades. It’s a straightforward tool that does one job very well. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. Check availability and get your hunt planned.
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