Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870: An In-Depth Comparison

When considering two of America's finest shotguns, it's essential to dive into their specifications, reviews, and unique features.

Mossberg 500 Overview:

With over 10 million units sold in over 50 years, the Mossberg 500 stands as one of the world's most reliable and versatile shotgun platforms. Designed for a wide range of applications, there's a Mossberg 500 to fit every user's need.

Features include dual extractors, steel to steel lockup, twin action bars, and an anti-jam elevator. It comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

Price Range: $267.99 - $359.99

Models:

• All Purpose: Base model, standard finish, choice of wood or synthetic stock.
• L-Series: Standard 500 features but for left-handed users.
• Duck Commander: Synthetic Realtree Max 5 Stock, OD Green Finish, Tru Bead dual-color front fiber optic sight.
• Turkey: Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity Synthetic Stock with matching barrel finish.
• Waterfowl: Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades or Advantage Max 4 stock and barrel camo patterns.
• Slugster: Comes with an integral scope base cantilever, a 24” ported barrel, and a fully rifled bore.

Remington 870 Overview:

The Remington 870, with its 60-year legacy, is America's preferred shotgun, thanks to its solid and dependable action. Each model boasts a receiver milled from solid steel for maximum durability. The twin action bars ensure smooth operation without binding, facilitating a quicker second shot. This shotgun comes with a 2-year limited warranty.

Price Range: $289.99 - $379.99

Models:

• Express: Base model with standard express finish. Choice of wood or synthetic stock.
• American Classic: Walnut stock, engraved with gold fill, ventilated recoil pad and spacer, white diamond cap, and a high polish blued finish.
• Wingmaster: Features twin action bars and offers more barrel and choke options than other 870 models. Available in various gauges.
• Classic Trap: Twin action bars, receiver milled from solid steel, fancy American walnut Monte Carlo stock, 30” vent rib barrel, and includes 3 Rem Chokes.

Head-to-Head: Mossberg 500 vs. Remington 870

Mossberg 500 Specs:

• Action: Pump-action with fore-end release behind the trigger guard and tang safety on top of the receiver.
• Barrel: Range of 20"-28" vent rib barrels and 24" slug barrel options.
• Capacity: 6 rounds.
• Chamber: 3” - Compatible with 2 3/4” and 3” shells.
• Sights: Fixed bead sights.
• Gauge: 12 GA, 20 GA, .410 Bore.
• Choke: Accu-Set or Full-Fixed chokes.
• Trigger Pull: 8 lbs 5 oz.

Remington 870 Specs:

• Action: Pump-action with fore-end release in front of the trigger guard and cross bolt safety.
• Barrel: 26” or 28” vent rib barrels.
• Capacity: 4 rounds.
• Chamber: 3” - Compatible with 2 3/4” and 3” shells.
• Sights: Fixed bead sights.
• Gauge: 12 GA, 20 GA.
• Choke: Modified Rem Choke.
• Trigger Pull: 5 lbs.

Detailed Comparisons:

• Accuracy: Both shotguns are known for their precision.
• Magazine: Mossberg 500 has a 6-round magazine, while the Remington 870 holds 4 rounds.
• Stock: Both models offer a choice between wood and synthetic stock.
• Sights: Both feature fixed front bead sights.
• Trigger: The Remington 870 has a lighter trigger pull, but replacements are available for both models.
• Barrel: Mossberg 500 offers 24”, 26”, or 28” vent rib barrels, while Remington 870 has options of 26” or 28”.
• Weight: Both weigh 7.5lbs.
• Safety: Mossberg 500's safety is located at the rear of the receiver, while the Remington 870 uses a cross bolt safety in the trigger guard.
• Shell Lifter: Mossberg 500's shell lifter remains up, making reloading more accessible, while Remington 870's needs to be pushed up before loading. However, modifications are available.
• Extractor: Mossberg 500 features 2 easily replaceable extractors, while Remington 870's single extractor requires a gunsmith for replacement.

Final Thoughts:

These are two American Shotguns that are available in many different configurations. Choosing between the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 comes down to personal preference. Their side-by-side comparison reveals many similarities, so it's advised to handle both before purchasing to determine the best fit for your needs.