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10 Reasons Why The Remington 870 Shotgun Is “An Iconic Scatter Gun”

The Remington 870 has earned its reputation as one of the most iconic shotguns ever produced. Loved by hunters, law enforcement, and military personnel alike, the 870 has seen countless iterations and made its mark on pop culture, all while maintaining its place as a go-to tool for a wide range of uses. Here are 10 things you might not know about the legendary Remington 870.

1. A Global Icon

1. A Global Icon
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The reach of the Remington 870 is nothing short of impressive. It’s not just a popular weapon in the United States – it’s a global phenomenon. This shotgun is used in over 28 countries across the world, including places like Canada, Israel, the UK, Germany, and even Thailand. Whether it’s military personnel, law enforcement, or civilian gun enthusiasts, the 870 has found its way into the arsenals of shooters everywhere. Its global popularity speaks to its reliability and versatility, making it a trusted firearm in various professional and personal settings.

2. A Shotgun for Every Need

2. A Shotgun for Every Need
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What makes the Remington 870 so appealing is its sheer variety. Available in several gauges – including 12, 16, 20, 28, and even .410 – there’s a version of the 870 to suit every shooter’s preference. In fact, the 870 was revolutionary when it introduced the 28 gauge and .410 models, which featured a scaled-down receiver. This innovation expanded the shotgun’s appeal and made it accessible to even more shooters. From civilian hunting trips to tactical law enforcement use, the Remington 870 can be customized for any job.

3. A Hollywood Star

3. A Hollywood Star
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The Remington 870 is no stranger to the silver screen. Over the years, it has made appearances in over 180 films, earning its place as a staple in Hollywood action scenes. From classics like The Terminator 2 and Commando to more modern hits like Logan and The Dark Knight, the 870 has graced the big screen in numerous memorable moments. Its role in video games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill further cement its status as a pop culture icon. For those who grew up watching action-packed thrillers, the Remington 870 is likely an instantly recognizable tool of the trade.

4. The Best-Selling Shotgun in History

4. The Best Selling Shotgun in History
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The 870’s legacy isn’t just about its presence in movies and games – it’s also a tale of pure sales success. The 870 has sold over 10 million units, making it the best-selling shotgun of all time. This remarkable feat speaks to its versatility, performance, and ability to evolve with the needs of gun owners. By the time 1983 rolled around, the 870 had already sold 3 million units, and by 2009, that number had swelled to over 10 million. The fact that this shotgun continues to top sales charts decades after its introduction is a testament to its enduring appeal.

5. A Design Evolution

5. A Design Evolution
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When the Remington 870 hit the market in 1950, it was built on decades of pump-action shotgun evolution. The 870’s predecessor, the Remington Model 31, was beloved by many but costly to produce. Remington’s engineers set out to create a more affordable yet equally reliable model, and the 870 was born. In 1969, Remington introduced new versions with smaller, lighter receivers to accommodate the .410 and 28 gauge options. These updates expanded the 870’s potential and established it as a leader in the shotgun world.

6. The ‘Flexi-Tab’ Fix

6. The 'Flexi Tab' Fix
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The 870’s design wasn’t always perfect. For over 30 years, users struggled with a frustrating issue: shells failing to load properly into the magazine. If a shell wasn’t pressed in all the way, the latch wouldn’t engage, and the shell could slip under the bolt, causing the shotgun’s action to become jammed. This issue was a hassle for shooters in the field. However, Remington didn’t sit idle. They introduced the “Flexi-Tab” carrier in the 1980s, which solved this problem by allowing smoother loading and a more reliable action. This fix significantly improved the 870’s reliability and made it even more popular.

7. The Shotgun of Choice for Every Shooter

7. The Shotgun of Choice for Every Shooter
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Whether you’re a competitive sports shooter, a tactical officer, or a weekend hunter, the Remington 870 has something for you. It’s been a staple in law enforcement and military units worldwide for decades, thanks to its versatility and durability. You’ll find the 870 in countless shooting competitions, as it can be easily customized for optimal performance. From high-powered hunting shots to precise target shooting, this shotgun can be tailored for almost any need.

8. Copycats and Clones

8. Copycats and Clones
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Remington’s dominance in the shotgun world has inspired imitation. After the patent for the Remington 870 expired, several manufacturers, including China’s Norinco, began producing unlicensed copies of the 870. These clones, like the Norinco HP91 and M98, share a striking resemblance to the iconic 870, though they were sold under different names in the U.S., such as the Hawk 982. While these copies may be cheaper, they can’t quite match the original’s reputation for quality and reliability.

9. Accessories Galore

9. Accessories Galore
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The 870 is one of the most customizable shotguns on the market today. Its modular design allows for a wide range of accessories, making it easy to modify for any shooting style or personal preference. From precision grips and adjustable stocks to extended magazine tubes and red dot sights, the 870 can be tailored to perfection. Need extra shells? No problem—side saddles are available to keep them within reach. The 870’s flexibility in customization is unmatched, allowing shooters to turn their shotgun into a personalized, high-performing tool.

10. The Legacy Continues

10. The Legacy Continues
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The story of the Remington 870 is far from over. Even as the gun industry evolves and new models hit the market, the 870 remains a key player. With new versions being introduced regularly, such as the Marine Magnum and the TAC-14, Remington continues to innovate and improve its flagship shotgun. Despite new competition, the 870’s status as a household name in the world of shotguns is assured. Whether it’s in the hands of a hunter or a military officer, the Remington 870’s legacy is secure, and its influence is undeniable.

A Cultural Icon

A Cultural Icon
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The Remington 870 is far more than just a shotgun; it’s a cultural icon, a sales juggernaut, and a symbol of American firearm engineering. From its time on the big screen to its role in countless military and civilian arsenals, this scattergun has earned its place in history. If you don’t already know and appreciate the Remington 870, now’s the time to dive deeper into what makes it so special.