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Remington 870 Academy: The Definitive Guide for Shooters of All Levels

The Remington 870 is arguably the most popular pump-action shotgun in American history. Millions have been sold, and it continues to be a mainstay for hunters, sport shooters, and home defenders alike. Within the vast 870 family, the “Academy” model holds a special place, often representing an entry point for new shooters or a budget-friendly option for experienced ones. This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of the Remington 870 Academy, exploring its features, benefits, potential drawbacks, and how it stacks up against other shotguns on the market. We aim to provide you with the most complete and trustworthy information available, drawing on years of experience and expert analysis.

Understanding the Remington 870 Academy: A Classic Reimagined

The Remington 870 Academy is essentially a variant of the standard 870, typically offered at a more accessible price point. It achieves this through a combination of factors, such as simplified furniture (stocks and forends), potentially different finishes, and sometimes, slight variations in included accessories. However, the core mechanics and the legendary reliability of the 870 platform remain intact. The beauty of the 870 platform lies in its simplicity and robust design. It operates using a bottom-loading, side-ejecting action, making it equally suitable for right- and left-handed shooters. The steel receiver provides exceptional durability, allowing it to withstand years of use and abuse. While some older models featured more elaborate machining and finishing, the Academy model prioritizes functionality and affordability without sacrificing the essential quality that makes the 870 so well-regarded.

Over the years, the Remington 870 has evolved, with various models catering to specific needs, from hunting to tactical applications. The Academy model often serves as a blank canvas for customization. Its inherent simplicity makes it easy to upgrade with aftermarket parts, allowing owners to tailor it to their precise requirements. Whether you’re looking to add a new stock, a different barrel, or enhanced sights, the 870 Academy provides a solid foundation for building your ideal shotgun.

Exploring the Key Features of the Remington 870 Academy

Let’s break down the key features that define the Remington 870 Academy:

Durable Steel Receiver: The heart of the 870, the steel receiver ensures long-lasting reliability and the ability to handle a wide range of shotgun loads. This is a critical feature contributing to the shotgun’s overall longevity.
Smooth Pump Action: The 870 is known for its smooth and reliable pump action, allowing for quick follow-up shots. This is achieved through precise machining and tight tolerances, ensuring consistent performance.
Versatile Barrel Options: While the Academy model typically comes with a standard field barrel, it’s compatible with a vast array of aftermarket barrels, allowing you to adapt it for different shooting disciplines.
Cross-Bolt Safety: The easily accessible cross-bolt safety provides a positive and reliable means of preventing accidental discharge.
Simplified Furniture: The synthetic stock and forend are durable and weather-resistant, requiring minimal maintenance. While not as aesthetically pleasing as wood furniture, they offer practical advantages in terms of durability and cost.
Accepts 2 3/4″ and 3″ Shells: This versatility allows you to use a wide range of shotgun ammunition, from light target loads to heavy hunting loads.
Bead Sight: The standard bead sight provides a simple and effective aiming point for general shooting purposes.

The Remington 870 Express: A Close Cousin

The Remington 870 Express is very similar to the Academy. The key difference often comes down to marketing and specific packages offered by retailers. The Express might have a slightly different finish, stock material, or come with a different choke tube. However, mechanically, they are nearly identical. Both offer the core 870 experience at a more affordable price point.

Advantages of Choosing the Remington 870 Academy

The Remington 870 Academy offers several compelling advantages for shooters:

Affordability: It’s one of the most budget-friendly ways to get into the legendary 870 platform. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners or those on a tight budget.
Reliability: The 870 is renowned for its reliability, and the Academy model is no exception. Its robust design ensures it will function reliably even under demanding conditions.
Versatility: The 870 Academy can be used for a wide range of shooting activities, from hunting and sport shooting to home defense.
Customizability: The vast aftermarket support for the 870 allows you to easily customize it to your specific needs and preferences.
Ease of Use: Its simple design makes it easy to learn and operate, even for novice shooters.
Availability: Parts and accessories are widely available, making maintenance and upgrades a breeze.
Proven Track Record: The 870 has been around for decades, with a proven track record of performance and durability.

Users consistently report satisfaction with the 870 Academy’s reliability and ease of use. Our analysis reveals that its affordability makes it a particularly attractive option for first-time shotgun owners. The ability to customize the shotgun over time is also a significant advantage, allowing users to adapt it to their evolving needs.

Remington 870 Academy: A Detailed Review

The Remington 870 Academy is a solid, no-frills shotgun that delivers reliable performance at an affordable price. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it provides a functional and dependable platform for a variety of shooting applications.

User Experience & Usability

From a practical standpoint, the 870 Academy is easy to handle and operate. The pump action is smooth and consistent, and the controls are intuitive. The synthetic stock and forend provide a comfortable grip, even in wet or cold conditions. The overall weight is manageable, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions. Loading and unloading shells is straightforward, and the cross-bolt safety is easily accessible.

Performance & Effectiveness

The 870 Academy performs admirably in a variety of shooting scenarios. It patterns well with a range of different loads, and the smooth action allows for quick follow-up shots. In our simulated testing, it consistently cycled shells without any malfunctions. It’s equally effective for hunting small game, shooting clays, or defending your home.

Pros

Exceptional Value: It offers an unbeatable combination of performance and affordability.
Rock-Solid Reliability: The 870 is known for its ability to withstand abuse and keep on functioning.
Extensive Customization Options: The aftermarket support for the 870 is unparalleled.
Simple and Easy to Use: Even beginners will find it easy to master.
Versatile Platform: It can be adapted for a wide range of shooting activities.

Cons/Limitations

Basic Furniture: The synthetic stock and forend are functional but lack the aesthetic appeal of wood.
Plain Finish: The matte finish is durable but not particularly attractive.
Limited Features: It lacks some of the features found on higher-end models, such as adjustable combs or recoil pads.
Potential for Rust: Like all firearms, it requires regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent rust.

Ideal User Profile

The Remington 870 Academy is best suited for:

First-time shotgun owners looking for an affordable and reliable option.
Hunters who need a dependable shotgun for small game or upland birds.
Sport shooters who want a versatile shotgun for clays or target practice.
Homeowners seeking a reliable and effective home defense weapon.

Key Alternatives

Two popular alternatives to the Remington 870 Academy are the Mossberg 500 and the Benelli Nova. The Mossberg 500 is another affordable and reliable pump-action shotgun, while the Benelli Nova offers a more modern design and features.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Remington 870 Academy is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and versatile shotgun. While it may not be the flashiest or most feature-rich option on the market, it delivers exceptional value and performance. We highly recommend it for beginners and experienced shooters alike.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Remington 870 Academy

Here are some common questions about the Remington 870 Academy:

What is the difference between the Remington 870 Academy and the Remington 870 Express?
The primary differences are often cosmetic, such as the finish on the metal parts and the material of the stock. Mechanically, they are very similar.
What gauge is the Remington 870 Academy available in?
The Remington 870 Academy is most commonly found in 12 gauge, but some models may also be available in 20 gauge.
Can I use steel shot in my Remington 870 Academy?
Yes, but it’s essential to use a choke tube that is approved for steel shot. Modified or improved cylinder chokes are generally safe choices.
How do I clean my Remington 870 Academy?
Regular cleaning involves disassembling the shotgun, cleaning the barrel and action with a solvent, and lubricating the moving parts with gun oil.
What kind of accessories can I add to my Remington 870 Academy?
The possibilities are endless! You can add different stocks, forends, barrels, sights, shell carriers, and more.
Is the Remington 870 Academy suitable for home defense?
Yes, it can be an effective home defense weapon. Consider adding a shorter barrel and a tactical light for improved maneuverability and target identification.
What is the effective range of the Remington 870 Academy?
The effective range depends on the load you’re using. For birdshot, the effective range is typically around 30-40 yards. For buckshot, it’s closer to 25 yards.
How do I adjust the trigger pull on my Remington 870 Academy?
The trigger pull on the 870 Academy is not easily adjustable. If you want a lighter trigger pull, you may need to consult a gunsmith.
Where can I find replacement parts for my Remington 870 Academy?
Replacement parts are widely available online and at most gun stores.
What is the best choke tube for my Remington 870 Academy?
The best choke tube depends on the shooting activity you’re engaged in. For bird hunting, a modified or improved cylinder choke is a good choice. For turkey hunting, a full choke is often preferred.

The Enduring Legacy of the 870 Academy

The Remington 870 Academy stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the 870 platform. Its affordability, reliability, and versatility make it an excellent choice for shooters of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or a homeowner looking for a dependable home defense weapon, the 870 Academy is sure to deliver. If you’re ready to experience the legendary performance of the Remington 870, explore your local gun store or online retailers to find the Academy model that’s right for you. Share your experiences with the Remington 870 Academy in the comments below!