Description
I was chasing turkeys in the Missouri River bottoms last spring when the weather turned sideways—rain one minute, sleet the next. My fancy over/under felt slick and cold, but the synthetic-stocked workhorse in my buddy’s hands? It just kept cycling. That’s the essence of the Remington 870 Express Pump 20 Ga, 21″, 3″, Synthetic Stock, Realtree. It’s a no-fuss, all-weather shotgun built to work when you need it, not to sit pretty in the safe. At $400.99, it’s a serious value for a proven platform.
Look, the 870 action is legendary for a reason. I’ve put hundreds of target, dove, and turkey loads through various 870s, and the Express model delivers that same rugged reliability without the frills. The 20-gauge chambered for 3″ shells is a sweet spot—enough power for most game, but with noticeably less recoil than a 12-gauge, which is a godsend for newer shooters or a long day in the field. The 21″ barrel keeps it maneuverable in a blind or thick brush, and the synthetic stock shrugs off moisture and hard knocks that would make a walnut stock weep.
Key Features That Matter
The Realtree camo finish isn’t just for show. It’s a durable coating that breaks up your outline perfectly in timber or field edges, and it protects the metal from the elements. This gun is drop-in ready; you can take it from the box, give it a basic cleaning, and head to the range or field with confidence. The pump action is smooth out of the gate and only gets better with use. The twin action bars prevent binding, a feature you’ll appreciate when you’re working the slide with cold, gloved hands.
Weighing in at around 6.5 pounds, it carries easily all day. The synthetic stock has a solid feel, not hollow or cheap, and the textured grip panels give you positive control. The 3″ chamber gives you flexibility, allowing you to run everything from light 2.75″ target loads for clays up to heavy 3″ magnum loads for turkey or waterfowl (with non-toxic shot, of course). It’s a versatile system. The bead sight is simple and fast, exactly what you want on a utility shotgun like this.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 21 Inches |
| Overall Length | 41.5 Inches (Approx.) |
| Stock | Synthetic, Realtree Camo |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Choke | Modified (Rem Choke System) |
Pros, Cons, and Who It’s For
The Good: Legendary 870 reliability. The synthetic stock and camo finish are incredibly durable and low-maintenance. The 20-gauge platform is manageable for almost any shooter. Fantastic aftermarket support for stocks, sights, and magazine extensions. It’s a proven design that just works.
The Consideration: The Express finish isn’t as corrosion-resistant as Remington’s higher-end models, so a light oiling after use in wet conditions is smart. The stock forend is basic, but that also means it’s a blank slate for upgrades if you want.
So who is this for? It’s the ideal first shotgun for a Missouri hunter, a perfect truck gun for farmstead pest control, or a dedicated foul-weather companion for waterfowlers and turkey hunters who don’t want to baby their gear. It’s also a great choice for home defense in a 20-gauge configuration, where reduced recoil and noise can be major advantages. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What chokes does it come with, and are they interchangeable?
A: It uses the standard Rem Choke system (threaded) and typically comes with a Modified choke tube installed. You can easily swap in any aftermarket Rem Choke, like those from Carlson’s or Trulock, for different patterns, from Cylinder for defense to Full for turkey.
Q: Is the 20-gauge enough for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: Absolutely, with the right ammunition. Using a 20-gauge slug (rifled or sabot, depending on your barrel) is perfectly effective within reasonable distances for Missouri whitetail. Always check current regulations, but the power is there.
Q: Can I add a magazine extension?
A: Yes. The 870 platform has huge support. Companies like Nordic Components and TacStar make +1 or +2 extensions that are compatible, though you may need a longer magazine spring and a gunsmith’s help for perfect installation to ensure reliable feeding.
If you need a dependable, versatile shotgun that won’t let you down in the field and won’t break the bank, the Remington 870 Express in 20-gauge is a hard option to beat. See if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.