The Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 are two of the most popular and widely used shotguns in the world. Both shotguns have a long history and have been trusted by hunters, law enforcement agencies, and sports shooters for decades. When it comes to choosing a shotgun, it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences, as each shotgun has its own unique features and advantages.
Choosing the right shotgun is crucial because it can greatly impact your shooting experience. Whether you are using it for hunting, home defense, or sport shooting, you want a shotgun that is reliable, accurate, and comfortable to use. The Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 are both known for their durability and versatility, but they do have some key differences that may make one more suitable for your needs than the other.
History and development of the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500
The Remington 870 was first introduced in 1950 and quickly became one of the most popular pump-action shotguns on the market. It was designed by L. Ray Crittendon, Phillip Haskell, Ellis Hailston, and G.E. Pinckney, who aimed to create a reliable and versatile shotgun that could be used for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. Over the years, the Remington 870 has undergone several improvements and variations to meet the changing needs of shooters.
The Mossberg 500 was introduced in 1961 by O.F. Mossberg & Sons. It was designed as a lightweight and affordable alternative to other pump-action shotguns on the market. The Mossberg 500 quickly gained popularity among hunters and sport shooters due to its reliability and affordability. Like the Remington 870, the Mossberg 500 has undergone several improvements over the years to enhance its performance and versatility.
Design and features of the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 shotguns
The Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 are both pump-action shotguns, which means they require manual operation to cycle the action and load a new round. The Remington 870 features a solid steel receiver and a smooth pump action, making it known for its reliability and durability. It has a traditional design with a wooden stock and forend, although synthetic options are also available. The Remington 870 is available in various barrel lengths and configurations to suit different shooting needs.
The Mossberg 500 also features a solid steel receiver and a smooth pump action. It has a more modern design with a synthetic stock and forend, although wooden options are also available. The Mossberg 500 is known for its lightweight and ergonomic design, making it comfortable to handle and shoot for extended periods of time. Like the Remington 870, the Mossberg 500 is available in various barrel lengths and configurations.
Comparison of the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 in terms of accuracy and range
Both the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 are capable of delivering accurate shots at close to medium ranges. The accuracy of a shotgun is influenced by factors such as barrel length, choke selection, and ammunition choice. Both shotguns offer interchangeable choke tubes, allowing shooters to customize their shot pattern for different shooting situations.
In terms of range, the Remington 870 has a slight advantage due to its longer barrel options. Longer barrels generally provide better range and tighter shot patterns. However, the difference in range between the two shotguns is minimal and may not be noticeable in practical shooting scenarios.
Comparison of the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 in terms of recoil and ergonomics
Recoil is an important factor to consider when choosing a shotgun, as excessive recoil can affect accuracy and shooter comfort. Both the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 have recoil-reducing features, such as recoil pads and gas-operated systems.
In terms of ergonomics, the Mossberg 500 has a slight advantage due to its lighter weight and more ergonomic design. The synthetic stock and forend of the Mossberg 500 provide a comfortable grip and better control during shooting. However, the Remington 870 is still considered to be comfortable to shoot, especially with the addition of aftermarket accessories such as recoil pads and pistol grips.
Comparison of the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 in terms of customization options
Both the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 offer a wide range of customization options, allowing shooters to personalize their shotguns to their specific needs and preferences. There are numerous aftermarket accessories available for both shotguns, including stocks, forends, barrels, sights, and magazine extensions.
The Remington 870 has been on the market for a longer time and therefore has a larger selection of aftermarket parts available. It is also known for its ease of disassembly and reassembly, making it easier to install aftermarket accessories. However, the Mossberg 500 is not far behind in terms of customization options and has gained popularity among shooters who prefer a more modern and tactical look.
Comparison of the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 in terms of reliability and durability
Both the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 are known for their reliability and durability. They are built to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use, making them suitable for hunting, self-defense, and sport shooting.
The Remington 870 has a reputation for being one of the most reliable pump-action shotguns on the market. It has been tested and proven by law enforcement agencies around the world. The Mossberg 500 is also highly regarded for its reliability, with many shooters reporting thousands of trouble-free rounds.
Comparison of the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 in terms of price and value
The Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 are both available at a wide range of price points, depending on the specific model and configuration. Generally, the Mossberg 500 is considered to be more affordable than the Remington 870, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious shooters.
However, it is important to consider the overall value of the shotgun, taking into account factors such as reliability, durability, and customization options. While the Remington 870 may have a higher initial cost, it offers a proven track record and a wider range of aftermarket parts, which may provide better long-term value for some shooters.
Pros and cons of the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 shotguns
The Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 both have their own set of pros and cons. The Remington 870 is known for its reliability, durability, and wide range of aftermarket parts. It has a traditional design and is favored by hunters and law enforcement agencies. However, it may be slightly heavier and more expensive than the Mossberg 500.
The Mossberg 500 is known for its lightweight design, affordability, and ergonomic features. It has gained popularity among sport shooters and those who prefer a more modern look. However, it may have a slightly shorter range compared to the Remington 870.
Which shotgun is the best choice for you?
Choosing between the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize reliability, durability, and a wide range of customization options, the Remington 870 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize affordability, lightweight design, and ergonomic features, the Mossberg 500 may be more suitable.
It is important to consider factors such as accuracy, range, recoil, ergonomics, customization options, reliability, durability, price, and value when making your decision. It may also be helpful to handle and shoot both shotguns before making a final decision. Ultimately, the best shotgun for you is the one that feels comfortable and suits your shooting needs and preferences.
