The Remington 870 Fieldmaster is a legendary pump-action shotgun, a stalwart in the world of firearms for decades. This review dives deep into its features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right shotgun for you. We'll cover everything from its history and design to its strengths and weaknesses in various applications. This in-depth look at the Remington 870 Fieldmaster will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed purchasing decision.
The Remington 870 Fieldmaster: A Legacy of Reliability
The Remington 870's history is intertwined with American history itself. Introduced in 1950, it quickly gained popularity for its rugged reliability and straightforward design. The Fieldmaster model, specifically, is known for its versatility. Its robust construction makes it suitable for everything from hunting to home defense, solidifying its place as a classic shotgun. The pump-action mechanism is simple, yet incredibly effective, ensuring reliable cycling even under adverse conditions. This simplicity has also made it incredibly easy to maintain and repair.
Design and Features: A Workhorse Built to Last
The Remington 870 Fieldmaster boasts a simple, yet effective design. Key features include:
- Pump-action mechanism: This reliable system ensures consistent cycling and ease of use.
- Durable construction: The receiver and barrel are typically constructed from steel, providing excellent durability.
- Interchangeable chokes: This allows for customization of the shot pattern to suit different hunting situations or target shooting.
- Simple controls: The safety and shell release are intuitively placed and easy to operate.
- Variety of barrel lengths: The Fieldmaster is available with different barrel lengths, allowing for versatility in various applications.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Action Type | Pump-action |
| Gauge | 12 gauge (most common), also available in 20 gauge |
| Barrel Length | Varies (26", 28", etc.) |
| Receiver Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Typically wood, but synthetic options available |
| Finish | Blued (most common), but other finishes may be available |
| Choke System | Interchangeable chokes (typically Rem Choke) |
Performance on the Range and in the Field
The Remington 870 Fieldmaster's performance consistently delivers. Its reliability is legendary; it's known for its ability to cycle a wide range of ammunition reliably. The simplicity of the design translates to smooth operation and ease of use, even for novice shooters.
However, it's worth noting that the Fieldmaster, while reliable, may not offer the same level of finesse found in some higher-end shotguns. The recoil can be noticeably stronger than in semi-automatics, particularly with heavier loads.
Example Scenarios:
- Hunting: The Fieldmaster excels in upland bird hunting and waterfowl hunting due to its versatility and ability to handle various shot sizes.
- Home Defense: Its reliability and stopping power make it a suitable choice for home defense, although proper training is crucial for safe and effective use.
- Sporting Clays: While not its primary intended use, the Fieldmaster can be adapted for sporting clays, but may not be the optimal choice due to recoil and cycling speed compared to dedicated sporting shotguns.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Reliability: The Fieldmaster's reputation for reliability is well-deserved.
- Versatility: Its suitability for various applications makes it a valuable all-around shotgun.
- Durability: The robust construction ensures the Fieldmaster can withstand rigorous use.
- Affordability: Compared to some high-end shotguns, the Fieldmaster offers excellent value.
- Simplicity: Its straightforward design makes it easy to maintain and repair.
Disadvantages:
- Recoil: The recoil can be substantial, especially with heavier loads.
- Weight: The Fieldmaster can be heavy, which can impact handling and fatigue during extended use.
- Not ideal for all applications: It's not the best choice for some specialized applications, such as high-speed sporting clays.
Remington 870 Fieldmaster vs. Competitors
Comparing the Fieldmaster to other shotguns in its class requires considering the specific needs of the user. While the Mossberg 500 is a strong competitor, often debated as the better option, the Remington 870 boasts a slightly more refined action and possibly higher perceived quality. The differences are often subtle. However, both shotguns offer similar reliability and performance. Choosing between them usually boils down to personal preference and feel. Other high-end options offer smoother actions and lighter weights, but at a significantly higher price point.
Conclusion: Is the Remington 870 Fieldmaster Right for You?
The Remington 870 Fieldmaster is a classic shotgun with a long-standing reputation for reliability and versatility. Its durability, ease of use, and relatively affordable price make it an attractive option for a wide range of users. While it might not be the ideal choice for every shooting scenario, its strengths in reliability and adaptability make it a worthy consideration for anyone looking for a workhorse shotgun capable of handling diverse applications. Consider your specific needs and budget before making a purchase, and always prioritize safe handling and proper training.