Discover the Enduring Legacy of Reliability: The REM Arms Model 870 Express Hardwood 12 Gauge Pump-Action Shotgun

When searching for a truly versatile and unfailingly dependable firearm, particularly a shotgun that excels in a multitude of scenarios, the REM Arms Model 870 Express Hardwood 12 Gauge stands out as a preeminent choice. This iconic pump-action shotgun, meticulously crafted by REM Arms, continues the legendary tradition of the Remington 870, a design revered for its robust construction, intuitive operation, and unparalleled adaptability. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a dedicated sport shooter, or someone prioritizing home and personal defense, this shotgun offers a compelling blend of performance, aesthetics, and time-tested reliability. Available through trusted sources like DEGuns, it represents an investment in a firearm that has consistently proven its worth across generations of users.

Why is the REM Arms Model 870 Express Hardwood 12 Gauge a Top Choice?

The Model 870's reputation isn't accidental; it's the result of decades of real-world performance and user satisfaction. This particular configuration, featuring a classic hardwood stock and forend, marries traditional aesthetics with modern manufacturing precision. It's designed to be a workhorse, capable of enduring harsh conditions while consistently delivering precise and powerful shots.

What sets this specific Model 870 apart?

The REM Arms Model 870 Express Hardwood is engineered with several key features that contribute to its celebrated performance:

• Legendary Pump-Action Reliability: At its core, the 870 is a manual pump-action shotgun, meaning each round is chambered by the shooter's physical action. This mechanism is inherently simpler than semi-automatic systems, making it less prone to malfunctions in adverse conditions. Its "workhorse" reputation is built on this rock-solid reliability, which is crucial whether you're out in the field or in a high-stress defense situation.
• Chambered in 12 Gauge: The 12 gauge is arguably the most versatile shotgun caliber available. It offers a vast array of ammunition types, from light target loads to heavy magnum slugs and buckshot, making the Model 870 suitable for an incredibly broad spectrum of applications.
• Optimal 4+1 Capacity: This model typically features a 4-round magazine tube plus one in the chamber, for a total capacity of five rounds. This capacity strikes an excellent balance, providing sufficient firepower for most hunting and sporting applications, while also being highly effective for home defense scenarios without excessive weight or length.
• Durable Hardwood Stock and Forend: The classic appeal of genuine hardwood isn't just aesthetic; it contributes to the shotgun's overall durability and handling characteristics. Hardwood stocks offer a solid, comfortable grip and can withstand significant wear and tear. They also add a touch of timeless elegance that many firearm enthusiasts appreciate. The natural grain and finish of the wood make each shotgun unique.
• Robust Steel Receiver: The heart of the 870 is its robust steel receiver, milled from a solid billet of steel. This construction provides exceptional strength and longevity, ensuring the shotgun can handle thousands of rounds over its lifetime without compromise.
• Smooth, Positive Action: The famous "slick as glass" action of the 870 allows for rapid follow-up shots. The precision-machined components ensure that loading, cycling, and ejecting shells is a consistent and reliable process, even under pressure.

Real-World Applications: Where Does the REM Arms Model 870 Shine?

One of the most frequent questions potential owners ask is, "What can I use a REM Arms Model 870 Express Hardwood for?" The answer is, almost everything a shotgun is designed to do. Its adaptability makes it an exceptional all-around firearm.

The Ultimate Home Defense Shotgun?

When it comes to protecting your home and family, simplicity, reliability, and decisive stopping power are paramount. The REM Arms Model 870 Express 12 Gauge checks all these boxes, making it one of the most highly recommended firearms for home defense.

• Intuitive Operation: Under stress, a simple manual of arms is critical. The pump-action mechanism is easy to learn and operate, reducing the chance of fumbling or confusion when seconds count.
• Intimidating Presence: The distinctive "shuck-shuck" sound of a pump-action shotgun being cycled is universally recognized and can be a significant deterrent to an intruder.
• Effective Ammunition: A 12 gauge loaded with buckshot offers unparalleled stopping power at close ranges typically encountered in home defense situations, providing multiple projectiles that spread to increase the likelihood of a hit.
• Reliability Under Pressure: Unlike some semi-automatic firearms that can be sensitive to specific ammunition or maintenance, the pump-action 870 is renowned for feeding and ejecting a wide variety of shells reliably, even when fouled or under less-than-ideal conditions.

A Versatile Companion for Hunters

For hunters, the REM Arms Model 870 Express Hardwood is a trusted companion capable of taking a wide array of game.

• Waterfowl Hunting: With the right ammunition and choke tubes, the 870 is perfectly suited for hunting ducks and geese. Its ability to handle various shot sizes and its robust design mean it can stand up to the wet and cold conditions often encountered in a duck blind.
• Upland Game Hunting: Pheasants, quail, and grouse are no match for the 870. The 12 gauge provides ample power for these birds, and the pump action allows for quick follow-up shots if necessary.
• Turkey Hunting: Equipped with specialized turkey loads and an appropriate choke, the 870 transforms into an effective turkey gun. Its precision and power make it capable of cleanly dispatching turkeys at common hunting ranges.
• Deer Hunting with Slugs: In states where shotgun hunting for deer is mandatory or preferred, the 870 with a rifled slug barrel (an easily interchangeable accessory) becomes a highly accurate and powerful deer rifle alternative.

Excelling in Sport Shooting and Recreation

Beyond serious applications, the Model 870 provides immense enjoyment at the range for various sporting disciplines.

• Trap, Skeet, and Sporting Clays: While often associated with over-under shotguns, many shooters learn and excel in these clay target sports with a pump action like the 870. Its consistent point of impact and reliable cycling make it a great tool for honing fundamental shotgunning skills.
• General Range Fun: For casual plinking or introducing new shooters to firearms, the 870 is an excellent choice. Its straightforward operation and manageable recoil (with appropriate loads) make it accessible and enjoyable.

Understanding the REM Arms Model 870's Enduring Design

The core design of the Model 870 has remained largely consistent since its inception, a testament to its effectiveness. The action bars, which connect the forend to the bolt and carrier assembly, provide a smooth and positive cycling experience. The twin action bars prevent twisting or binding during the pump stroke, ensuring consistent operation. The cross-bolt safety, located conveniently at the rear of the trigger guard, is easily manipulated with the shooting hand.

What materials are used in its construction for durability?

The REM Arms Model 870 Express is built to last. The receiver, as mentioned, is machined from a solid billet of steel, providing a foundation of unparalleled strength. The barrel is typically cold hammer-forged, a process that creates a highly durable and accurate barrel. Internal components are designed for thousands of cycles, ensuring long-term reliability. The hardwood stock and forend are chosen not just for their classic aesthetic but also for their resilience and ability to withstand the rigors of field use. This combination of robust materials and precision engineering ensures that the shotgun can withstand demanding use for many years, becoming a multi-generational firearm.

Maintenance and Care for Your Model 870

To ensure your REM Arms Model 870 Express continues to perform flawlessly, proper maintenance is key. Regular cleaning, especially after each use, will prevent the buildup of carbon, lead, and plastic wad residue that can affect performance.

• Barrel Cleaning: Use a bore snake or cleaning rod with appropriate brushes and patches to remove fouling.
• Action Cleaning: Disassemble the action to clean the bolt, carrier, and action bars, removing any grit or grime. Apply a light coat of gun oil to moving parts.
• Exterior Wipe Down: Wipe down all metal surfaces with an oiled cloth to prevent rust, especially after exposure to moisture.
• Stock Care: While hardwood is durable, it benefits from occasional conditioning to prevent drying out and cracking.

Following these simple steps will help maintain the legendary reliability and longevity of your REM Arms Model 870.

Why Choose the REM Arms Model 870 from DEGuns?

When deciding where to acquire such a significant firearm, choosing a reputable retailer is as important as choosing the right model. DEGuns offers a reliable and secure platform for purchasing firearms like the REM Arms Model 870 Express Hardwood. They provide a trusted avenue for responsible gun ownership, ensuring adherence to all federal and local regulations, and often offering competitive pricing and customer support that enhances the buying experience. Investing in a firearm from a trusted source like DEGuns ensures you receive a genuine, high-quality product backed by professional service.

Important Safety Considerations

Owning any firearm, including the REM Arms Model 870 Express, comes with significant responsibility. Always adhere to the fundamental rules of firearm safety:

1. Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
2. Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
3. Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
4. Always be sure of your target and what is beyond it.

Additionally, proper storage of firearms and ammunition is critical to prevent unauthorized access. Use gun safes, trigger locks, or other security measures to ensure safety, particularly in households with children.

The REM Arms Model 870 Express Hardwood 12 Gauge is more than just a shotgun; it's a testament to enduring design, reliability, and versatility. Whether for defense, hunting, or sport, it offers an exceptional experience and a lifetime of dependable service.

Feature	Description	Value
Model	REM Arms Model 870 Express	R81143
Gauge	Versatile and powerful, accepting various shell types	12 Gauge
Capacity	Standard magazine tube plus one in chamber	4+1 Rounds
Stock & Forend	Classic, durable, and aesthetically pleasing	Hardwood
Action	Renowned for reliability and smooth cycling	Pump-Action
Receiver Material	Robust and durable, milled from a solid billet	Steel
Manufacturer	Continues the legacy of an iconic firearm brand	REM Arms Firearms
UPC	Unique Product Code for identification and inventory	047700811431