The Remington 870 Fieldmaster has long held a legendary status among shotguns. Its reputation precedes it: a rugged, reliable pump-action shotgun capable of handling a wide variety of tasks, from hunting waterfowl to home defense. But how does this classic hold up against modern shotguns? This in-depth review dives into the features, performance, and overall value of the Remington 870 Fieldmaster, helping you decide if it's the right shotgun for you.
What Makes the Remington 870 Fieldmaster Stand Out?
The Remington 870 Fieldmaster's enduring popularity stems from several key factors:
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Robust Construction: Built with a durable steel receiver and a robust action, the Fieldmaster is known for its resilience. It can withstand harsh conditions and heavy use without significant issues. This is crucial for hunters who frequently navigate challenging terrain.
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Reliable Operation: The pump-action mechanism is simple and effective, rarely jamming even under pressure. This reliability is paramount in hunting situations where a malfunction could be costly.
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Versatility: The Fieldmaster's versatility is one of its greatest strengths. It can be easily customized with various barrels and chokes, allowing you to adapt it to different hunting scenarios, from upland bird hunting to turkey hunting.
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Affordable Price Point: Compared to some of its competitors, the Remington 870 Fieldmaster offers excellent value for its price. It's a high-quality shotgun that doesn't break the bank, making it accessible to a wider range of shooters.
A Deep Dive into Performance and Features
The Fieldmaster excels in several key areas:
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Shooting Experience: The recoil is manageable for most shooters, even with heavier loads. The smooth pump action contributes to a comfortable shooting experience, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
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Accuracy: With the right choke, the Fieldmaster delivers impressive accuracy at hunting ranges. It's a reliable tool for making clean, ethical shots.
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Ease of Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining the 870 Fieldmaster is straightforward. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean thoroughly, ensuring longevity.
Areas for Potential Improvement:
While the Remington 870 Fieldmaster offers much to admire, there are a few areas where it could be improved:
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Stock and Forend: Some users find the standard stock and forend to be somewhat basic and lacking in ergonomics. Aftermarket options are readily available, but it would be beneficial to see improvements in the factory stock.
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Finish: The blued finish, while durable, can show wear and tear more readily than some newer coatings.
Remington 870 Fieldmaster vs. the Competition
The Remington 870 Fieldmaster faces stiff competition from other pump-action shotguns like the Mossberg 500 and the Winchester 1300. However, the Fieldmaster’s reputation for reliability, coupled with its affordable price, often makes it the preferred choice for many hunters. The choice often comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
Final Verdict: Is the Remington 870 Fieldmaster Right for You?
The Remington 870 Fieldmaster is a classic for a reason. It’s a reliable, versatile, and affordable pump-action shotgun perfect for a wide array of applications. While it may not possess some of the bells and whistles found in more modern shotguns, its proven reliability and ease of use make it a strong contender. If you’re looking for a dependable workhorse that won't let you down, the Remington 870 Fieldmaster is an excellent choice. Consider your budget, hunting style, and personal preferences when making your decision. For many, the Fieldmaster remains a timeless classic, a testament to its enduring quality and performance.
