Introduction
The Remington 870. The name itself evokes a sense of reliability, power, and a long-standing reputation for excellence in the world of shotguns. A true American icon, the Remington 870 has served in countless roles, from home defense to law enforcement and military applications, for decades. But what happens when this tried-and-true platform is confronted with the unforgiving realities of saltwater, high humidity, and extreme weather? The answer is the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum, a specialized variant engineered to thrive where corrosion is the enemy, and unwavering performance is a necessity.
This article will delve into the world of the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum, exploring its history, unique features, and the applications where its superior corrosion resistance truly shines. We will examine the design choices that make it such a formidable shotgun in environments where other firearms would falter. From its carefully selected materials to the specialized finishes, the Marine Magnum is built to withstand the harshest conditions.
History and Development
The story of the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum is rooted in the broader history of the Remington 870 itself. Introduced in 1950, the Remington 870 quickly became a cornerstone of the shotgun world. Its robust pump-action design, chambered for the ubiquitous 12-gauge shell, earned a reputation for reliability and ease of use. Over the years, Remington produced a diverse array of models, catering to hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement agencies.
The need for a shotgun capable of withstanding the corrosive effects of saltwater, humidity, and harsh environments quickly became apparent. Law enforcement agencies operating in coastal regions, maritime patrol units, and, of course, the United States Navy, required a weapon that would function flawlessly in the face of relentless corrosion. This led to the development of a specialized version, the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum, purpose-built to tackle these challenging conditions. It wasn’t simply about adapting an existing model; it was about re-engineering it with corrosion resistance as the paramount objective. The initial intended markets, as mentioned previously, were focused on agencies operating in the coastal areas, but also the Navy. The ultimate goal was to provide a reliable and durable firearm that would perform when it was needed most.
Key Features and Specifications
Barrel Construction and Finish
A closer look at the heart of the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum reveals the engineering that sets it apart. The barrel, a critical component, is typically constructed from stainless steel. Stainless steel provides a significant advantage over standard carbon steel, exhibiting far greater resistance to rust and corrosion. But Remington didn’t stop there. The barrel is often further enhanced with an electroless nickel plating. This coating provides an incredibly durable and even finish, creating a barrier against moisture and the damaging effects of salt. While exact barrel lengths can vary, the Marine Magnum is commonly found with barrel lengths favored for law enforcement and tactical applications, often in a compact configuration for ease of handling.
Receiver and Action
The receiver, the backbone of the shotgun, also undergoes a rigorous treatment process. In many cases, the receiver is constructed from high-quality steel, and, like the barrel, is treated with specialized corrosion-resistant finishes. The exact finish can vary, but options like electroless nickel plating or similar treatments are often employed. This ensures that the receiver, the core of the weapon, can withstand the rigors of prolonged exposure to harsh environments. The operating mechanism, a classic pump-action design, is known for its simplicity and reliability. The pump-action system is naturally more resistant to malfunctions compared to some semi-automatic designs, and the Marine Magnum leverages this inherent advantage.
Magazine Tube and Capacity
The magazine tube holds the ammunition supply. The Marine Magnum employs materials and finishes that enhance the durability of this key component, preventing corrosion. The magazine tube capacity will often meet the standard capacity for the typical 870 but might also have options available for extended magazine tubes.
Stock and Fore-end
The stock and fore-end, often made of durable synthetic materials, are designed for reliability, even when wet. Unlike wood stocks, synthetic materials are impervious to moisture and swelling, which can compromise the functionality of a shotgun. These synthetic components are selected for their resistance to moisture absorption, ensuring consistent performance in wet conditions. The overall design considerations ensure proper handling, even with wet hands.
Sights
The sights on the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum are usually simple and practical. The most common configuration is a bead sight on the front of the barrel, offering quick target acquisition. However, ghost ring sights, a more advanced sighting system that provides a wider field of view and improved accuracy in close-quarters scenarios, can also be found. These sights, usually constructed from corrosion-resistant materials, are designed to withstand the elements and maintain their functionality over time.
Other Features
Beyond the core components, the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum includes other features that enhance its reliability. The trigger mechanism is designed for smooth and consistent operation, and the safety features are incorporated for safe handling. The goal is to offer a dependable firearm in high-stress situations, where everything, from the trigger pull to the safety engagement, needs to function flawlessly.
Corrosion Resistance and Performance
The true measure of the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum lies in its ability to resist corrosion. The combination of stainless steel, electroless nickel plating, and other specialized coatings provides exceptional protection against rust and the damaging effects of saltwater, humidity, and other environmental factors. This level of corrosion resistance is not simply a cosmetic enhancement; it directly translates to reliability. The Marine Magnum can be submerged in water, exposed to salt spray, and subjected to extreme temperature variations without the worry of performance degradation.
The shotgun is ideally suited for a variety of demanding environments. Its ability to resist corrosion makes it a perfect choice for law enforcement agencies operating in coastal regions or maritime units. Navy SEALS and other special operations units often find it ideal for the demands of their missions. It can also be used for any other use cases that would encounter a corrosive environment. The Marine Magnum provides peace of mind, allowing users to focus on the mission without the added worry of weapon failure due to environmental degradation.
Comparison: Marine Magnum vs. Standard Remington 870
When comparing the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum to the standard Remington 870, the differences are clear. The primary distinctions are in the materials and finishes. While a standard 870 might use blued steel, which is more susceptible to rust, the Marine Magnum employs stainless steel and corrosion-resistant coatings. This results in a significantly higher level of protection. The advantage of the Marine Magnum lies in its ability to perform reliably in harsh conditions. It is designed for a specific set of circumstances where the standard 870 may fall short.
In terms of price, the Marine Magnum usually commands a premium compared to standard models. This is due to the more expensive materials and specialized manufacturing processes employed. However, the higher cost represents an investment in enhanced durability and reliability, providing significant value to users who operate in corrosive environments.
Field Use and Applications
The Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum has found a home in a variety of applications where its corrosion resistance is crucial. Law enforcement agencies in coastal regions, and those with maritime patrol units, find it an indispensable tool. SWAT teams appreciate its reliability and durability in various operational scenarios.
The Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum is also used by the United States Navy and other military and special operations units. These units often operate in environments where corrosion is a constant threat, and the Marine Magnum offers a dependable solution. It is designed to withstand the rigors of deployment, including exposure to saltwater, humidity, and extreme temperatures.
In addition to these professional applications, some recreational users, such as hunters and sport shooters, might also choose the Marine Magnum if they frequently operate in wet or coastal environments. The added corrosion resistance can provide extra peace of mind and extend the lifespan of the shotgun. It is also a very popular choice for home defense, especially if the user has reasons to believe it might need to be stored in humid locations.
Pros and Cons
The Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum offers numerous benefits. Its outstanding corrosion resistance, the hallmark of its design, makes it a reliable choice for use in challenging environments. Its proven track record and reputation for reliability provide users with confidence in its performance.
However, it is also important to acknowledge the cons. The Marine Magnum typically carries a higher price tag than standard models. There’s also a slight possibility of finish wear with frequent use and even with the best of care and maintenance. The user is obligated to provide diligent maintenance, to ensure longevity.
Maintenance and Care
Maintaining the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum is essential for maximizing its lifespan and ensuring optimal performance. Routine cleaning is important to remove any debris or contaminants that might accumulate during use. Proper cleaning also allows for the application of protective lubricants.
The recommended cleaning procedure typically involves disassembling the shotgun, thoroughly cleaning the barrel and action, and applying a light coat of corrosion-inhibiting lubricant. The specific lubricant used should be designed for marine applications and is designed to provide a protective barrier. Regular inspections should be performed to identify any signs of corrosion or wear. Proper storage, such as in a dry and well-ventilated environment, is essential to prevent moisture buildup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum is a specialized, highly capable shotgun built to perform reliably in the most challenging conditions. Its selection of stainless steel, electroless nickel plating, and other specialized coatings make it exceptionally resistant to corrosion. The Marine Magnum provides peace of mind in situations where other firearms would struggle. From law enforcement to military applications, this shotgun is a testament to durability and reliability, designed to withstand the test of time, and the elements. The Remington 870 Police Marine Magnum is a tool of choice where mission-critical performance is absolutely essential.
