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Remington 870 Fieldmaster Review: A Timeless Classic Still Worth Considering

The Remington 870 Fieldmaster. The name itself conjures images of crisp autumn mornings, dove soaring against a clear sky, and the satisfying *clack-clack* of a pump-action shotgun being readied. For decades, the Remington 870 has been a mainstay in American hunting and shooting culture. But in a market saturated with modern shotguns boasting advanced features and synthetic materials, does the 870 Fieldmaster still hold its own? This review will delve into the specifics of the Remington 870 Fieldmaster, examining its features, performance, reliability, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right shotgun for your needs.

A Legacy of Reliability: The Remington 870’s Enduring Appeal

The Remington 870’s popularity isn’t accidental; it’s earned through decades of proven performance. First introduced in 1950, the 870 quickly gained a reputation for its robust construction, smooth action, and inherent accuracy. This reputation has cemented its place as one of the best-selling shotguns of all time. The Fieldmaster variant, specifically, is designed as a versatile all-around shotgun suitable for various hunting applications and recreational shooting.

Key Features of the Remington 870 Fieldmaster

The Remington 870 Fieldmaster boasts a number of features that contribute to its enduring appeal:

Solid Steel Receiver: The heart of the 870 is its robust steel receiver. This provides exceptional strength and durability, ensuring the shotgun can withstand years of use and abuse.
Smooth Pump Action: The 870’s pump action is renowned for its smoothness and reliability. This allows for fast and consistent cycling of shells, crucial in hunting situations.
Versatile Chambering: The Fieldmaster is typically chambered in 12-gauge or 20-gauge, offering versatility for different game and shooting preferences. Some models are also available in smaller gauges.
Wood Stock and Forend: The Fieldmaster features a traditional wood stock and forend, providing a classic look and feel. While synthetic options exist, the wood furniture offers a comfortable and secure grip.
Rem Choke System: The 870 Fieldmaster utilizes the Rem Choke system, allowing you to easily change chokes to optimize your pattern for different shooting scenarios. This is especially useful for hunting different types of game or engaging in clay shooting.
Cross-Bolt Safety: A simple and reliable cross-bolt safety is located at the front of the trigger guard for easy access.

Performance on the Range and in the Field

The true test of any shotgun is its performance in the field. The Remington 870 Fieldmaster consistently delivers reliable and accurate performance. The smooth pump action allows for quick follow-up shots, essential for hunting fast-moving game. The well-balanced design makes the shotgun comfortable to carry and easy to swing, contributing to improved accuracy.

The Rem Choke system allows you to tailor your shot pattern to the specific game you’re hunting. For example, using an improved cylinder choke for close-range upland bird hunting or a modified choke for longer-range waterfowl hunting. This versatility makes the 870 Fieldmaster a true all-around shotgun. Recoil can be significant, especially with heavier loads in the 12-gauge model, but a good recoil pad can help mitigate this. The Remington 870 Fieldmaster is a workhorse in the field.

Reliability and Maintenance of the Remington 870 Fieldmaster

One of the key reasons for the Remington 870’s enduring popularity is its renowned reliability. The simple and robust design minimizes the number of potential failure points. With proper care and maintenance, an 870 Fieldmaster can last for generations. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to ensure smooth operation. Pay particular attention to cleaning the bore, receiver, and action after each use. A detailed cleaning guide is usually included in the owner’s manual. Spare parts are readily available, making repairs relatively easy and affordable. The Remington 870 Fieldmaster is a shotgun you can depend on.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While the Remington 870 Fieldmaster has many strengths, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks:

Weight: The steel receiver and wood furniture contribute to a relatively heavy shotgun. This can be a factor to consider for those who prioritize lightweight firearms, especially for long days in the field.
Finish Quality: In recent years, some users have reported inconsistencies in the finish quality of Remington firearms. It’s advisable to carefully inspect the shotgun before purchasing to ensure the finish is free from blemishes or imperfections.
Wood Furniture Variability: The appearance of the wood stock and forend can vary significantly from one shotgun to another. This is due to natural variations in the wood grain and color. While this doesn’t affect performance, it’s something to be aware of if you’re particular about aesthetics.
Aftermarket Accessories: While a plethora of aftermarket accessories exist for the Remington 870, finding parts that fit perfectly and function flawlessly might require some research and potentially some fitting.

Alternatives to the Remington 870 Fieldmaster

If the Remington 870 Fieldmaster doesn’t quite meet your needs, there are several alternatives to consider:

Mossberg 500: The Mossberg 500 is another popular pump-action shotgun known for its reliability and affordability. It’s a direct competitor to the 870 and offers similar features and performance.
Benelli Nova: The Benelli Nova is a more modern pump-action shotgun with a polymer stock and forend. It’s known for its smooth action and weather resistance.
Beretta A300 Outlander: If you’re willing to spend more, the Beretta A300 Outlander is a semi-automatic shotgun that offers reduced recoil and faster follow-up shots.

Is the Remington 870 Fieldmaster Right for You?

The decision of whether or not to purchase a Remington 870 Fieldmaster ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile, and affordable pump-action shotgun with a classic look and feel, the 870 Fieldmaster is an excellent choice. Its proven track record, smooth action, and Rem Choke system make it well-suited for a variety of hunting and shooting applications. However, if you prioritize lightweight firearms or are concerned about potential finish quality issues, you may want to consider alternative options. The Remington 870 Fieldmaster remains a solid choice for both seasoned shooters and those new to the sport.

Final Thoughts on the Remington 870 Fieldmaster

The Remington 870 Fieldmaster has earned its place as an iconic American shotgun. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its reliability, versatility, and affordability. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of modern shotguns, the 870 Fieldmaster offers a classic shooting experience that is hard to beat. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a recreational shooter, the Remington 870 Fieldmaster is a shotgun that is well worth considering. The Remington 870 Fieldmaster continues to be a relevant and capable firearm in today’s market.

[See also: Best Shotguns for Beginners]

[See also: Remington 870 vs Mossberg 500: Which is Better?]

[See also: Shotgun Choke Guide: Understanding Your Options]