Unleashing Performance: The REM Arms Model 870 SPS Compact 20 Gauge Shotgun

Are you searching for a versatile, reliable, and comfortable shotgun that caters to a wide range of shooting needs, from precise turkey hunting in dense woods to introducing a new generation to the joys of sporting clays? Do you wonder which shotgun offers a perfect balance of manageable recoil, superb maneuverability, and legendary durability? Look no further than the REM Arms Model 870 SPS Compact 20 Gauge shotgun, a firearm engineered to excel in diverse scenarios while prioritizing user comfort and performance.

This comprehensive guide is designed for hunters seeking an edge in camouflage and portability, sport shooters desiring a lighter kick without sacrificing effectiveness, and guardians considering a dependable option for home defense. We'll delve into why the REM Arms 870 SPS Compact stands out as a premier choice, exploring its features, ideal applications, and the distinct advantages it offers to shooters of all experience levels.

Who Benefits Most from the REM Arms Model 870 SPS Compact?

The REM Arms Model 870 SPS Compact is meticulously designed to solve several common challenges faced by shotgun enthusiasts. It is an exceptional solution for:

• Youth and New Shooters: Its 20-gauge chambering significantly reduces felt recoil compared to a 12-gauge, making it an ideal "first shotgun" that builds confidence and positive shooting habits. The compact dimensions ensure a proper fit, eliminating the discomfort and poor form often associated with oversized firearms.
• Smaller-Statured Individuals: For women or anyone with a smaller frame, the shorter length of pull and lighter overall weight translate into superior handling, improved accuracy, and a more enjoyable shooting experience. No more struggling with unwieldy firearms; this shotgun fits like a glove.
• Hunters in Dense Cover: Whether you're navigating thick brush for wild turkey, pursuing upland birds through challenging terrain, or setting up in a confined ground blind, the 21-inch barrel offers unparalleled maneuverability. Its Realtree Edge camouflage finish provides superior concealment across various environments, from timber to open fields.
• Recoil-Sensitive Shooters: If you've found 12-gauge shotguns too punishing, the 20-gauge Model 870 SPS Compact delivers ample power for most hunting and sporting applications with a noticeably gentler kick, allowing for extended shooting sessions without fatigue.
• Home Defense Enthusiasts: The compact size makes it highly effective in close quarters, providing potent stopping power with ease of movement within a home environment. Its legendary reliability offers peace of mind when it matters most.

Unpacking the Core Features: Why the 870 SPS Compact Excels

At the heart of this firearm's appeal are its meticulously crafted features, each contributing to its reputation as a reliable and high-performing shotgun:

The Legendary Remington 870 Platform

The Model 870 is arguably the most trusted and best-selling pump-action shotgun in history, with millions produced and a legacy spanning decades. The REM Arms 870 SPS Compact continues this tradition, inheriting the robust engineering, smooth action, and unparalleled reliability that have made the 870 a true American icon. Its twin action bars prevent binding and ensure consistent, trouble-free cycling, shot after shot. This is the shotgun hunters and competitive shooters turn to when failure is not an option.

Optimized 20-Gauge Chambering for Versatility and Comfort

While the 12-gauge often steals the spotlight, the 20-gauge is a powerhouse in its own right, offering significant advantages, particularly in a compact platform. The 20-gauge delivers sufficient energy for turkey, deer (with slugs), upland birds, and waterfowl (with appropriate steel shot loads). Its primary benefit, however, is reduced recoil, which directly translates to:

• Faster Follow-Up Shots: Less muzzle rise means you can get back on target quicker, a critical advantage in wing shooting or defensive scenarios.
• Improved Accuracy: Shooters are less likely to flinch or anticipate recoil, leading to more consistent and accurate shot placement.
• Extended Training Sessions: Enjoy more time at the range or in the field without the discomfort often associated with higher-recoil firearms.

Agile 21-Inch Barrel with Fixed Choke

The 21-inch barrel is a deliberate choice, striking an optimal balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. For hunters, this means easier navigation through dense undergrowth, quicker target acquisition on flushing birds, and a less cumbersome feel in a blind. For home defense, it allows for swift movement within confined spaces. The 870 SPS Compact comes with a modified choke, providing a versatile pattern suitable for a wide array of hunting and shooting applications, including turkey, pheasant, and general clay shooting. This factory-optimized choke simplifies decision-making for new shooters while delivering excellent performance.

Reliable 4+1 Round Capacity

With a capacity of four rounds in the magazine tube and one in the chamber, the 870 SPS Compact provides a practical and legal capacity for most hunting situations. This standard configuration ensures you have sufficient firepower for typical hunting scenarios without excessive weight or bulk, while also being well-suited for sporting clays or personal defense.

Stealthy Realtree Edge Camouflage Finish

Beyond its striking aesthetic appeal, the Realtree Edge camouflage pattern is a highly functional feature for hunters. This pattern is designed to disrupt the human outline at any distance, blending into the environment whether you're in a tree stand overlooking an open field or tucked into a dense thicket. It incorporates realistic limbs, leaves, and open areas to create a multi-dimensional effect, enhancing your ability to remain undetected by wary game. This durable finish also protects the firearm from the elements, ensuring its longevity in harsh outdoor conditions.

Ergonomic Right-Hand Configuration

Crafted for right-handed shooters, the firearm features standard controls and an ergonomic design that ensures comfortable and intuitive operation. The safety is conveniently located on the trigger guard, and the pump action is smooth and responsive, allowing for rapid cycling of rounds.

Real-World Applications: Where Does the 870 SPS Compact Shine?

Understanding the shotgun's features is one thing; knowing how it translates to real-world performance is another. The REM Arms Model 870 SPS Compact is a multi-talented firearm, excelling in a variety of disciplines:

Turkey Hunting Excellence

Many experienced turkey hunters prefer a 20-gauge for its lighter weight and maneuverability in the woods. The 21-inch barrel makes it easy to handle in tight situations, while the Realtree Edge pattern ensures you're practically invisible to keen-eyed gobblers. When paired with modern 20-gauge turkey loads, this shotgun delivers devastating patterns at effective ranges, making it a formidable tool for chasing spring thunder.

Upland Game and Waterfowl Hunting

For pheasants flushing from tall grass, quail bursting from cover, or ducks decoying over water, the 870 SPS Compact offers quick handling and a lively swing. The 20-gauge is more than capable for these birds, and the reduced recoil means less fatigue during a long day in the field, allowing you to stay focused on the hunt. (Always check local regulations regarding minimum gauge and shot type for waterfowl.)

Ideal for Deer Hunting (with Slugs)

In many shotgun-only zones, the 20-gauge Model 870 SPS Compact can be transformed into an effective deer harvesting tool by simply swapping to a rifled barrel (if available for this model, an aftermarket accessory) and employing modern sabot slugs. The inherent accuracy of the 870 platform, combined with the power of a 20-gauge slug, makes it a viable option for medium-range deer hunting.

Sporting Clays, Skeet, and Trap Shooting

For competitive shooters or those enjoying a casual day at the range, the 20-gauge offers a more forgiving experience. It's an excellent choice for introducing new shooters to clay sports, allowing them to focus on technique rather than bracing for recoil. Its compact size also makes it easy to shoulder and swing through various presentations on a sporting clays course. Many experienced shooters also opt for a 20-gauge for a lighter, faster feel.

Dependable Home and Personal Defense

When considering a firearm for home protection, reliability, ease of use, and manageable recoil are paramount. The REM Arms 870 SPS Compact ticks all these boxes. Its pump-action mechanism is inherently reliable, cycling even in adverse conditions. The 20-gauge provides significant defensive power, and the compact dimensions allow for effective use in tight indoor environments, making it a responsible choice for household security.

The DEGuns Advantage: Your Trusted Source for REM Arms Firearms

When investing in a quality firearm like the REM Arms Model 870 SPS Compact, choosing a reputable dealer is crucial. DEGuns is a leading online retailer known for its extensive selection of firearms, competitive pricing, and commitment to customer satisfaction. As a trusted source for the REM Arms 870 SPS Compact, DEGuns ensures you receive a genuine, factory-fresh firearm with all manufacturer warranties.

At deguns.com, you can explore the full specifications of this model, compare it with other options, and benefit from their knowledgeable customer service. They provide a seamless purchasing experience, ensuring your new shotgun arrives safely and legally. When you're ready to make this versatile and reliable firearm yours, deguns.com is the clear choice for a confident purchase.

Maintenance and Care for Your REM Arms 870 SPS Compact

To ensure your REM Arms Model 870 SPS Compact continues to perform flawlessly for years to come, regular maintenance is essential. Simple cleaning and lubrication after each use, especially after exposure to harsh environments, will preserve its mechanical integrity and finish. Always refer to the owner's manual for specific cleaning instructions, but general best practices include:

• Bore Cleaning: Use a bore snake or cleaning rod with appropriate brushes and patches to remove carbon and lead fouling.
• Action Cleaning: Lightly lubricate the twin action bars and bolt carrier group to ensure smooth operation.
• External Wipe-Down: Wipe down all external surfaces, especially the Realtree Edge finish, with a lightly oiled cloth to protect against moisture and corrosion.
• Storage: Store your shotgun in a dry, secure location, ideally in a gun safe.

Comparing the 20 Gauge vs. 12 Gauge for the 870 SPS Compact

While the 12-gauge 870 is iconic, the 20-gauge SPS Compact offers distinct advantages, especially for its target audience. The 20-gauge's smaller hull and less powder result in lower recoil, making it significantly more comfortable for extended shooting sessions or for smaller-framed individuals. Yet, with modern ammunition, the 20-gauge is incredibly effective for nearly all small to medium game, providing patterns and energy sufficient for ethical harvesting. Its lighter weight contributes to the "compact" designation, enhancing maneuverability without compromising performance. For many, the 20-gauge REM Arms 870 SPS Compact represents the optimal balance of power, comfort, and handling.

In conclusion, the REM Arms Model 870 SPS Compact 20 Gauge shotgun stands as a testament to Remington's enduring legacy of producing dependable, high-quality firearms. Its thoughtful design, incorporating a compact frame, reduced recoil 20-gauge chambering, and practical Realtree Edge camouflage, makes it an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a versatile, comfortable, and highly effective pump-action shotgun. Whether you're hitting the fields for hunting season, honing your skills at the range, or ensuring the safety of your home, this shotgun is built to perform, delivering confidence with every shot.

Product Specifications: REM Arms Model 870 SPS Compact 20 Gauge

Feature	Detail
Model	870 SPS Compact
Gauge	20 Gauge
Barrel Length	21 Inches
Capacity	4+1 Rounds
Finish	Realtree Edge Camo
Hand	Right Hand
Manufacturer	REM Arms
Part Number	R81174
UPC	810070681533