Choosing between the Mossberg 500 and the Remington 870 is a classic debate among shotgun enthusiasts. Both are legendary pump-action shotguns with a rich history and proven reliability, but they cater to slightly different preferences. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which one is the right fit for your needs and budget.
Key Differences: Design and Features
The Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 share the pump-action mechanism, but their designs differ significantly. These differences impact how they feel in your hands, how easily they're disassembled, and even their overall reliability.
Ease of Disassembly:
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Mossberg 500: Known for its incredibly simple takedown process. You can field strip a Mossberg 500 in seconds with minimal tools, making cleaning and maintenance a breeze. This is a major advantage for many shooters.
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Remington 870: The Remington 870 requires slightly more steps for disassembly, although it's still relatively straightforward. It's not overly complex, but the Mossberg definitely wins in this category for ease and speed.
Safety:
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Mossberg 500: Features a cross-bolt safety located on the tang (rear of the receiver). This is a simple and easily accessible safety, although some find it less intuitive than the Remington's design.
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Remington 870: Utilizes a slide-mounted safety located on the top of the receiver. This allows for ambidextrous operation and is considered by many to be more instinctive to use.
Action:
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Mossberg 500: Mossberg's action is generally smoother and easier to operate, especially for those with smaller hands or less upper body strength.
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Remington 870: While reliable, the Remington 870's action can feel slightly stiffer, especially when new. This can improve with use and break-in.
Internals:
Both shotguns are robust and reliable, but there are subtle differences in their internal mechanisms. Mossberg uses simpler, often more easily replaceable parts, while Remington's parts are slightly more intricate. This can impact repair costs and availability of parts, although both brands have extensive aftermarket support.
Performance and Reliability: A Neck-and-Neck Race
Both the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 are known for their legendary reliability. They’ve proven themselves time and again in various conditions, from hunting fields to law enforcement duty. You'll be hard-pressed to find significant performance differences in terms of accuracy, range, or cycling reliability with standard ammunition.
Cost and Availability: A Matter of the Market
Pricing for both shotguns can vary based on model, features, and retailer. Generally, the Mossberg 500 is often slightly more affordable than the Remington 870, particularly in entry-level models. However, both shotguns have a wide range of options available, from basic models to highly customized versions. Availability depends heavily on current market conditions and retailer stock.
Choosing the Right Shotgun for You
Ultimately, the best shotgun for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Mossberg 500 if:
- Easy disassembly is a priority: The Mossberg’s simpler takedown is a huge benefit for cleaning and maintenance.
- You prefer a smoother, easier-to-operate action: The Mossberg is generally considered to have a lighter, smoother pump action.
- Budget is a concern: The Mossberg 500 often comes in at a lower price point.
Choose the Remington 870 if:
- You prefer a slide safety: The Remington's top-mounted safety is preferred by many shooters.
- You value a strong brand reputation: Remington 870 has a long and storied history among law enforcement and hunters.
Conclusion: Two Legends, Different Approaches
The Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 are both excellent pump-action shotguns. There's no clear "winner" – the best choice depends entirely on your personal preferences and intended use. Careful consideration of the points discussed above will help you make an informed decision and select the shotgun that best suits your needs. Consider handling both shotguns if possible before making your final decision.
