Ithaca Shotgun vs. M870 Shotgun

Attribute	Ithaca Shotgun	M870 Shotgun
Manufacturer	Ithaca Gun Company	Remington Arms Company
Action	Pump-action	Pump-action
Caliber	12 gauge	12 gauge
Capacity	4+1 rounds	4+1 rounds
Barrel Length	18.5 inches	18.5 inches

Introduction

Shotguns are popular firearms for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. Two well-known shotgun models are the Ithaca Shotgun and the M870 Shotgun. Both of these shotguns have their own unique attributes that make them popular choices among gun enthusiasts. In this article, we will compare the features of the Ithaca Shotgun and the M870 Shotgun to help you decide which one may be the best fit for your needs.

Design

The Ithaca Shotgun is known for its classic and timeless design. It has a sleek and elegant appearance with a traditional walnut stock and blued steel barrel. The M870 Shotgun, on the other hand, has a more modern and tactical design. It features a synthetic stock and forend, as well as a matte black finish. Both shotguns are well-built and durable, but the design aesthetic is where they differ the most.

Action

When it comes to action, the Ithaca Shotgun is a pump-action shotgun. This means that the shooter must manually pump the forend to chamber a new round after firing. The M870 Shotgun is also a pump-action shotgun, so both firearms require the same action to cycle rounds. Pump-action shotguns are known for their reliability and simplicity, making them popular choices for both hunting and home defense.

Capacity

The capacity of a shotgun refers to the number of rounds it can hold. The Ithaca Shotgun typically has a lower capacity compared to the M870 Shotgun. The Ithaca Shotgun usually holds around 4-6 rounds, depending on the model and barrel length. In contrast, the M870 Shotgun can hold up to 7-8 rounds, giving it a slight advantage in terms of capacity. This may be a factor to consider depending on your intended use for the shotgun.

Accuracy

Both the Ithaca Shotgun and the M870 Shotgun are known for their accuracy. The smooth bore barrels on these shotguns allow for consistent and precise shooting. However, some shooters may find that the Ithaca Shotgun has a slight edge in accuracy due to its tighter tolerances and smoother action. That being said, both shotguns are more than capable of hitting targets at various distances with the right ammunition and shooting technique.

Price

Price is often a significant factor when choosing a shotgun. The Ithaca Shotgun tends to be on the higher end of the price spectrum due to its craftsmanship and quality materials. On the other hand, the M870 Shotgun is more budget-friendly and offers a great value for the money. If you are on a tight budget, the M870 Shotgun may be the better option. However, if you are willing to invest in a higher-quality shotgun, the Ithaca Shotgun may be worth the extra cost.

Conclusion

Both the Ithaca Shotgun and the M870 Shotgun are excellent firearms with their own unique attributes. The Ithaca Shotgun is known for its classic design and superior craftsmanship, while the M870 Shotgun offers a more modern and tactical approach. Ultimately, the best shotgun for you will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and intended use. We hope this comparison has helped you make an informed decision on which shotgun may be the right choice for you.