A Look Back at History
The Remington 870: A Legacy of Excellence
The history of Remington Arms Company stretches back to the early 19th century, a lineage built on innovation and a commitment to quality. The Remington 870, born from this rich heritage, first appeared on the market in the early fifties. This gun was intended to replace the older models and to offer a modern pump-action shotgun. Its introduction was a watershed moment. From the outset, the 870 was designed to be rugged, reliable, and relatively simple to manufacture. This focus on practical performance immediately resonated with law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters. The Remington 870 quickly became synonymous with pump-action shotguns, its sleek lines and smooth action a hallmark of quality. Its popularity soared, solidifying its place as a workhorse for various applications. The 870 gained prominence in various roles, from hunting waterfowl to serving as a defensive weapon. This versatility has fueled its long-lasting popularity and earned its place in the history of firearms.
The Mossberg 500: A Versatile Champion
O.F. Mossberg & Sons, another well-respected name in the firearms industry, also has a significant place in American gun culture. The Mossberg 500 series emerged as a direct competitor to the Remington 870. It was designed with a strong emphasis on affordability and adaptability. Introduced in the late fifties, the Mossberg 500 quickly established itself as a reliable and budget-friendly alternative. The Mossberg 500 was engineered with a focus on user-friendliness and easy maintenance, making it a popular choice for beginners and experienced shooters alike. Mossberg’s approach was to offer a versatile platform, readily adaptable to various needs. It could be customized for hunting, home defense, and even tactical applications. The Mossberg 500’s enduring legacy is its adaptability and its continued role in diverse applications, making it a true rival to the Remington 870.
Design and Feature Highlights
Remington 870 Design: Craftsmanship and Quality
The Remington 870 is often lauded for its robust construction, featuring a receiver typically milled from a solid piece of steel, although later models used steel alloys. This method of construction is known for its durability and longevity. The barrel is typically made of steel. The classic design often has a wooden stock and forend, giving it a distinctive and pleasing aesthetic. The 870 features a crossbolt safety located near the trigger guard. The smooth pump action is a hallmark of the 870, and many shooters find it comfortable and intuitive to operate. Magazine capacity varies depending on the model, but the standard is between four and seven rounds in the magazine tube. The overall ergonomics of the 870 are generally considered to be excellent, with the design of the pistol grip and forend contributing to comfortable handling.
Mossberg 500 Design: Practical and User-Friendly
The Mossberg 500, though still robust, often features a receiver made from a lighter-weight aluminum alloy. The barrel is made of steel. The Mossberg 500 employs a tang safety, a sliding button located on the top of the receiver. This safety design is often preferred by shooters who find it quick and easy to manipulate. The 500 has a magazine capacity that also depends on the particular model, with options similar to the Remington 870. The action is also reliable, but often described as feeling a little different compared to its competitor. The Mossberg 500 is generally seen as ergonomic, and it benefits from easy handling and operation.
Key Differences: Dissecting the Details
The differences in design are not merely aesthetic; they affect how the shotguns function and how they feel in the hands of the shooter. The 870 often has a tighter lockup, which contributes to its reputation for accuracy. The Mossberg 500’s tang safety is considered by some to be more natural and easier to manipulate. The 870 is often praised for its slick action, while the 500’s action is still smooth, but some shooters perceive a slight difference in smoothness. Both shotguns offer solid construction, but the materials used have implications for weight and cost. The 870, often constructed using steel, can feel more substantial than the 500, which uses aluminum for the receiver.
Performance and the Test of Reliability
Remington 870: Reliability, Accuracy, and Handling
The Remington 870 is widely known for its inherent reliability. Its robust construction and smooth action contribute to its consistent performance. The 870 has a well-earned reputation for operating flawlessly, even in harsh environments. The trigger pull of the 870 is typically crisp and clean. Recoil management is an area where the 870 excels. The weight of the gun, combined with its design, makes it manageable and comfortable to shoot, even with heavy loads. The 870’s balance and weight distribution contribute to positive handling.
Mossberg 500: Performance and Practicality
The Mossberg 500 is a reliable shotgun, and it has gained a favorable reputation. The design is robust and can withstand heavy use. The trigger pull of the 500 is generally considered to be functional, and it doesn’t typically match the refined feel of some higher-end shotguns. Recoil management is adequate, and the 500 is relatively easy to handle, though some shooters report that the lighter weight of the aluminum receiver can lead to a more noticeable kick than with the heavier 870. The 500’s design features contribute to its ease of operation.
Comparing the Two: What Sets Them Apart in Performance
Both shotguns are reliable, but small differences exist. The 870 might have a slight edge in overall smoothness due to its steel construction and refined design. Trigger quality is often a personal preference, and while both guns have triggers that work, some shooters may find a difference in the feel of the 870. Recoil is managed well by both, but the additional weight of the 870 can provide a slightly softer shooting experience.
Versatility and the Aftermarket
Remington 870: Customization Options
The Remington 870 has a wide range of aftermarket parts and accessories available. From tactical stocks and forends to specialized barrels and sights, the 870 can be configured for any purpose. A variety of models are available. This means that owners of the 870 have access to many ways to adapt the gun to fit their shooting needs.
Mossberg 500: Adaptability and the Aftermarket
The Mossberg 500 has a large aftermarket following. This means that a wide variety of parts and accessories are available for customization. Many models are available, further widening the options for shooters who want to personalize their shotgun.
Comparing the Options: Customization and Choices
Both shotguns are well-supported by the aftermarket, but the Remington 870 is often seen as having a slight edge in this regard. This is largely because the 870 has been around for longer, and there have been more aftermarket companies creating parts for it. The Mossberg 500 still offers a vast array of options, so the choice comes down to personal preference and the exact accessories the shooter is looking for.
Price, Value, and the Practical Considerations
What Can You Expect to Pay?
The price of the Remington 870 will depend on the specific model and its condition. The Mossberg 500 is often positioned as a more budget-friendly option. The 870 can be found at competitive prices. Both guns offer a good return on investment, but they each have strengths and weaknesses that you should consider.
Considering the Value Proposition
Both shotguns deliver excellent value for the money. The 870 often has a higher price tag. The Mossberg 500 can be attractive to shooters on a budget. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual needs and preferences.
The Pros and Cons of Each Option
The Remington 870: Weighing the Advantages
The Remington 870 offers robust construction, proven reliability, a smooth action, a wide selection of aftermarket parts, and excellent ergonomics. The cons of the 870 may include a higher price point and, depending on the model and materials used, a heavier overall weight.
The Mossberg 500: The Advantages and Disadvantages
The Mossberg 500 benefits from its affordability, its easy-to-use tang safety, its modular design, and its versatility. The potential downsides include a slightly less refined action, a lighter overall weight (which can increase perceived recoil), and, for some shooters, a slightly less refined trigger feel.
Which Shotgun Should You Choose? A Guide
The choice between the Remington 870 and the Mossberg 500 depends on your individual needs and priorities.
For Hunters:
Both shotguns are well-suited for hunting. The 870, with its smooth action, can be a good choice. The 500 is also a reliable option.
For Home Defense:
Both shotguns can provide effective home defense. Consider the ergonomics of each gun, the location of the safety, and the ease of operation.
For Sport Shooting:
For sport shooting, both shotguns are suitable.
The Conclusion: A Final Consideration
Ultimately, the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 are both excellent pump-action shotguns, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The 870’s reputation for ruggedness, smooth action, and wide array of aftermarket support makes it a favorite. The 500’s affordability and versatility make it a popular choice for many shooters. The “best” option depends on the individual shooter’s needs and preferences. Carefully consider the factors discussed in this article, and you will be able to make an informed decision about which shotgun is right for you. Whether you choose the Remington 870 or the Mossberg 500, you will be armed with a reliable and effective firearm.
