The Remington 870 Fieldmaster is a legendary pump-action shotgun, and its 20-gauge variant offers a compelling blend of power, versatility, and reliability. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and suitability for various applications, helping you decide if the Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge is the right shotgun for you.
What Makes the Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge Stand Out?
The Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge inherits the robust design and reliability of its larger-bore siblings. Its reputation is built on decades of proven performance in diverse conditions, from hunting fields to home defense scenarios. Key features contributing to its popularity include:
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Durable Construction: The receiver is typically made from durable steel, offering excellent resistance to wear and tear. This ensures long-term reliability even with extensive use. The robust design also helps withstand the recoil of 20-gauge shells.
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Smooth Action: The pump-action mechanism is renowned for its smooth operation. The action is typically easy to cycle, even with heavier loads. This is crucial for rapid follow-up shots, whether you're hunting or in a self-defense situation.
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Versatility: The Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge is highly adaptable. It's compatible with a wide range of chokes, allowing you to customize the shot pattern for various hunting situations (e.g., bird hunting, turkey hunting, etc.) or target shooting. This flexibility makes it a truly versatile firearm.
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Reliability: Pump-action shotguns like the 870 Fieldmaster are known for their reliability. They are less susceptible to malfunctions compared to some semi-automatic shotguns, making them a dependable choice in critical situations. The simplicity of the design minimizes potential points of failure.
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Affordable Price: Compared to some other shotguns offering similar features, the Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge generally offers excellent value for its price. This makes it an accessible option for both seasoned shotgunners and those new to the sport.
Performance and Handling: On the Range and in the Field
The 20-gauge Fieldmaster delivers a manageable recoil, making it a comfortable option for many shooters, especially those with less experience or smaller stature. The reduced recoil compared to 12-gauge shotguns allows for quicker target acquisition and follow-up shots.
Its handling is generally praised for its balance and maneuverability. The weight is appropriately distributed, allowing for quick target acquisition and smooth swings. This makes it well-suited to various hunting styles and shooting disciplines.
Accuracy: The inherent accuracy of the Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge is good, but it is crucial to note that accuracy ultimately depends on the shooter, ammunition selection, and the choke used. Proper sighting and practice are essential to maximize accuracy with any firearm, including this one.
Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge: Ideal Applications
The versatile design of the Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge makes it suitable for a wide range of applications:
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Hunting: It excels in upland bird hunting, waterfowl hunting (with appropriate waterfowl loads and choke), and small game hunting. The 20-gauge offers a good balance between power and manageable recoil, perfect for many hunting situations.
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Home Defense: Its reliability and stopping power make it a viable option for home defense, though other considerations like training and legal aspects are vital.
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Target Shooting: With the right choke and ammunition, the Fieldmaster performs well in various target shooting disciplines. It's a popular choice for trap, skeet, and sporting clays.
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Tactical Applications (with modifications): While not inherently designed for tactical use, certain modifications (such as adding a tactical stock and accessories) can adapt it for some tactical situations. However, dedicated tactical shotguns often offer superior features for this purpose.
Common Questions and Considerations
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Ammunition: The 20-gauge offers a wide variety of ammunition options, but choosing the right load for the intended purpose is crucial. High-velocity rounds may be needed for hunting larger game, while lighter loads might be preferable for bird hunting or target shooting.
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Chokes: The ability to change chokes is a significant advantage. Experimenting with different chokes allows for optimization of the shot pattern for different situations. Ensure compatibility with your chosen chokes before purchasing.
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Maintenance: Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the smooth operation and longevity of the shotgun. Consult the owner's manual for proper cleaning procedures.
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Alternatives: Several other 20-gauge pump-action shotguns are available on the market. Comparing features, prices, and user reviews can help you decide which shotgun best suits your needs and budget.
Conclusion: The Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge - A Solid Choice
The Remington 870 Fieldmaster 20 Gauge remains a solid and reliable pump-action shotgun. Its durable construction, smooth action, versatility, and relatively affordable price make it an attractive option for a wide range of shooters. While not without its potential drawbacks (some minor criticisms regarding fit and finish are sometimes reported), its proven track record and overall performance solidify its position as a strong contender in the 20-gauge shotgun market. However, remember to always handle firearms safely and responsibly, and to thoroughly research your specific needs and preferences before purchasing any firearm.