Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870

Attribute	Mossberg 500	Remington 870
Manufacturer	Mossberg	Remington
Model	500	870
Action	Pump-action	Pump-action
Capacity	Varies (4, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 rounds)	Varies (4, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 rounds)
Barrel Length	Varies (18.5", 20", 22", 24", 26", or 28")	Varies (18.5", 20", 21", 23", 26", or 28")
Overall Length	Varies (39.5" - 50.5")	Varies (38.5" - 48.5")
Weight	Varies (5.5 lbs - 7.5 lbs)	Varies (7 lbs - 8 lbs)
Stock	Various options (synthetic, wood, pistol grip, etc.)	Various options (synthetic, wood, pistol grip, etc.)
Sights	Varies (bead, ghost ring, rifle, etc.)	Varies (bead, ghost ring, rifle, etc.)
Finish	Various options (blued, parkerized, camo, etc.)	Various options (blued, parkerized, camo, etc.)
Price	Varies	Varies

Introduction

The Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 are two of the most popular pump-action shotguns on the market. Both firearms have been trusted by hunters, law enforcement agencies, and sport shooters for decades. While they share many similarities, they also have distinct differences that make each shotgun unique. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870, exploring their design, features, performance, and overall reputation.

Design and Construction

When it comes to design, both the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 follow a traditional pump-action shotgun layout. They feature a tubular magazine located under the barrel, a sliding forend, and a shoulder stock. However, there are some notable differences in their construction.

The Mossberg 500 has an aluminum receiver, which makes it lighter than the Remington 870. This can be advantageous for those who prefer a more maneuverable shotgun, especially in situations where quick target acquisition is crucial. On the other hand, the Remington 870 has a steel receiver, providing it with a reputation for durability and ruggedness.

Both shotguns offer a variety of stock options, including fixed and adjustable stocks, as well as different barrel lengths to suit various shooting preferences and applications. The Mossberg 500 is known for its tang-mounted safety, which some shooters find more intuitive to operate, while the Remington 870 features a crossbolt safety located at the rear of the trigger guard.

Features and Accessories

When it comes to features and accessories, both the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 offer a wide range of options to cater to different needs and preferences.

The Mossberg 500 is known for its versatility, with a vast selection of interchangeable barrels, allowing shooters to switch between different lengths and choke options. It also features the Accu-Choke system, which enables quick and easy choke changes without the need for additional tools. Additionally, the Mossberg 500 has a dual extractors system, ensuring reliable shell extraction under various conditions.

On the other hand, the Remington 870 offers a unique feature called the "Remington ShurShot synthetic stock." This stock is designed with an ergonomic pistol grip and a contoured forend, providing enhanced comfort and control during shooting. The Remington 870 also offers a wide range of accessories, including extended magazine tubes, tactical stocks, and various sight options, making it a popular choice for those seeking customization.

Both shotguns have options for different finishes, such as blued, parkerized, or camo patterns, allowing shooters to select a style that suits their preferences and intended use.

Performance and Reliability

When it comes to performance and reliability, both the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 have proven themselves in the field.

The Mossberg 500 is known for its smooth pump action, making it easy to cycle rounds quickly. It has a reputation for reliability, even in adverse conditions, thanks to its robust design and dual extractors. The tang-mounted safety of the Mossberg 500 is also favored by many shooters, as it allows for ambidextrous operation.

Similarly, the Remington 870 is renowned for its reliability and durability. Its steel receiver provides a solid platform for consistent performance, even after prolonged use. The crossbolt safety of the Remington 870 is simple and easy to operate, making it a popular choice for beginners and experienced shooters alike.

Both shotguns have proven track records in terms of reliability, with countless users relying on them for hunting, home defense, and competitive shooting. Ultimately, the choice between the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 may come down to personal preference and specific requirements.

Reputation and Popularity

Both the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 have established themselves as iconic shotguns, enjoying immense popularity among firearm enthusiasts.

The Mossberg 500 has gained a reputation for being a reliable and affordable shotgun, making it a popular choice for those on a budget. Its versatility and wide range of available configurations have contributed to its widespread use in various shooting disciplines.

On the other hand, the Remington 870 has earned a reputation for being a workhorse shotgun, known for its ruggedness and durability. It has been the preferred choice of many law enforcement agencies and military units around the world, further solidifying its reputation as a reliable and battle-tested firearm.

Both shotguns have a dedicated following, with passionate supporters on each side of the Mossberg vs. Remington debate. Ultimately, the reputation and popularity of these shotguns speak to their quality and performance in the field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 are both exceptional pump-action shotguns with their own unique attributes. The Mossberg 500 offers a lightweight design, interchangeable barrels, and a tang-mounted safety, while the Remington 870 boasts a steel receiver, a wide range of accessories, and the renowned ShurShot synthetic stock.

Both shotguns have proven themselves in terms of performance, reliability, and popularity, making them reliable choices for hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement professionals. Ultimately, the decision between the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 will depend on individual preferences, shooting requirements, and budget constraints.

Regardless of which shotgun you choose, both the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 have stood the test of time and continue to be trusted firearms in the world of shotguns.