A Legacy of Excellence: The History of the Remington 870
The Genesis of a Legend
The Remington 870 shotgun. The name itself evokes images of reliable performance, enduring durability, and a legacy deeply ingrained in American firearm history. For decades, this pump-action shotgun has been a trusted companion for hunters, a stalwart of law enforcement, and a favorite among sporting enthusiasts. But within the expansive 870 family, two models often stand out for comparison: the Fieldmaster and the Wingmaster. Both are Remington 870s, sharing the same fundamental mechanics and reputation for excellence, yet they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences. This article delves deep into the nuances of the 870 Fieldmaster and Wingmaster, providing a comprehensive analysis to help you determine which shotgun best aligns with your specific requirements.
From Origins to Dominance
To understand the Fieldmaster and Wingmaster, it’s crucial to appreciate the foundation upon which they are built. The Remington 870’s story begins in the early nineteen fifties. Remington, a company with a long and storied history in firearm manufacturing, sought to create a pump-action shotgun that would surpass the performance and reliability of its predecessor, the Model 31. The result was the Model 870, introduced to the public in nineteen fifty.
A Workhorse is Born
From the outset, the 870 was designed to be a workhorse. Its robust construction, featuring a receiver milled from a solid billet of steel, quickly earned it a reputation for unwavering reliability. The smooth, consistent pump action, combined with a simple yet effective ejection system, made it easy and fast to operate. The 870’s innovative design also included a unique “dual action bar” system, which ensured a reliable and jam-resistant cycling process.
Versatility and Widespread Adoption
The 870’s success was immediate. It quickly became a top seller, embraced by hunters, law enforcement agencies, and competitive shooters alike. Its versatility was another key factor in its widespread adoption. The 870 could be easily adapted to a variety of tasks simply by changing the barrel. From hunting waterfowl and upland game to engaging targets at the range or serving as a tactical tool for law enforcement, the 870 was a multi-purpose solution.
Evolution and Legacy
Over the years, Remington continually refined and expanded the 870 lineup, introducing various models with different features and finishes. However, the core principles of reliability, durability, and user-friendliness remained constant. The 870’s enduring legacy is a testament to its superior design and construction, which has allowed it to remain a relevant and respected firearm for over seven decades.
The Fieldmaster: The Reliable Performer
Defining the Fieldmaster
The 870 Fieldmaster is a direct descendant of the original 870 design, built to deliver solid performance at an attractive price point. It’s a shotgun designed for practicality, built to withstand the rigors of the field and perform reliably in a wide range of conditions. Its emphasis on functionality makes it a favorite for hunters and shooters who prioritize dependability and value.
Durable Construction
A key feature of the Fieldmaster is its stock and forend, typically constructed from a rugged synthetic material. This material is incredibly durable, resistant to the elements, and requires minimal maintenance. Unlike wood, synthetic stocks won’t warp or crack due to moisture or temperature fluctuations. This makes the Fieldmaster an excellent choice for use in challenging environments, such as wet or muddy conditions. The synthetic stock often features a textured surface for enhanced grip, providing shooters with a secure hold even with wet hands or gloves.
Resilient Finish
The Fieldmaster’s receiver finish is another notable aspect. It usually incorporates a Parkerized finish. Parkerizing is a phosphate conversion coating that creates a matte, gray, or black finish on the metal. This finish not only adds an aesthetic appeal that many shooters appreciate, but more importantly, provides superior corrosion resistance. Parkerizing helps protect the metal from rust and wear, extending the life of the shotgun and ensuring its continued reliable operation.
Adaptability and Affordability
The Fieldmaster is often offered with a versatile range of barrel lengths and choke options, allowing shooters to customize it for different hunting or shooting applications. This versatility, combined with the shotgun’s inherent reliability, makes the Fieldmaster a practical choice for both novice and experienced shotgun users. The Fieldmaster often presents a more affordable price compared to its Wingmaster counterpart. This difference in price makes the Fieldmaster a cost-effective option for those looking for a dependable and capable shotgun without breaking the bank.
The Wingmaster: The Classic Aesthetic
Embracing Tradition
The 870 Wingmaster embodies the classic beauty and elegance often associated with traditional firearms. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, the Wingmaster caters to those who appreciate the finer things in life. Its use of quality materials and meticulous finishing distinguishes it as a premium shotgun.
Timeless Walnut Elegance
The Wingmaster is instantly recognizable by its stock and forend, typically crafted from beautifully grained walnut wood. Walnut is a timeless material known for its rich appearance and warm feel. The polished walnut stock provides a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing grip. The wood also has a unique characteristic of aging gracefully over time, developing a deeper patina with use and wear. The beauty of the walnut stock and forend elevates the Wingmaster’s appearance, giving it a timeless and sophisticated aesthetic appeal.
Sophisticated Finish
The Wingmaster’s metalwork often features a blued finish. Bluing is a chemical process that creates a protective layer on the steel, giving it a deep, lustrous appearance. This finish is often preferred for its aesthetic appeal. The blued finish presents a refined look that complements the walnut stock, creating a visually stunning firearm. However, it’s worth noting that bluing, while beautiful, is generally less resistant to rust and corrosion than the parkerized finish. Proper care and regular maintenance are therefore essential to maintain the Wingmaster’s pristine appearance and prevent the formation of rust.
A Direct Comparison: Features and Specifications
Material Choices
A true understanding of the Fieldmaster and Wingmaster requires a closer look at their features and specifications.
Material and Construction: The fundamental differences often reside in the choice of materials. The Fieldmaster typically uses a synthetic stock and forend, prioritizing durability and weather resistance. The Wingmaster, in contrast, boasts a walnut stock and forend, emphasizing aesthetics and a classic feel. The synthetic stock offers robust performance in harsh conditions, while the walnut stock adds a sense of luxury and elegance.
Visual Appeal
Aesthetics: The visual appeal of these shotguns differs significantly. The Fieldmaster’s parkerized finish and synthetic stock give it a more utilitarian look, suited for practical use. The Wingmaster’s blued finish and walnut stock create a more refined and attractive profile. The Wingmaster exudes a timeless elegance, making it a favorite among those who appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted firearm.
Performance and Reliability
Performance and Reliability: At their core, both the Fieldmaster and Wingmaster share the same reliable internal mechanisms. The 870 platform is renowned for its smooth cycling action and robust design. The choice between the Fieldmaster and Wingmaster should not be driven by questions of reliability, as the two models both offer great performance. Barrel lengths and choke options are generally similar across models, allowing users to customize their 870 for different shooting scenarios.
Cost Considerations
Cost and Value: The Fieldmaster offers greater cost-effectiveness compared to the Wingmaster. Its synthetic stock and parkerized finish often contribute to a lower price point, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shooters. The Wingmaster comes with a premium price, reflecting the higher-quality materials and the added aesthetic appeal. The best choice between the two often depends on how an individual prioritizes price versus aesthetics and materials.
Who Are They For? Target Users and Recommended Applications
Fieldmaster’s Ideal Users
The Fieldmaster: This shotgun is often ideal for those who value practicality above all else. It’s an excellent choice for hunters and shooters who operate in demanding environments and need a durable firearm that can withstand the elements. The Fieldmaster’s resistance to weather and its lower price also make it a great choice for beginners or those who are new to shotgun shooting.
Wingmaster’s Target Audience
The Wingmaster: The Wingmaster is designed for the shooter who appreciates a more refined firearm and the beauty of classic design. It is favored by those who are willing to invest a little more to acquire a shotgun with a timeless aesthetic. The Wingmaster is also a good choice for collectors who are looking to add a piece of firearm history to their collection.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Fieldmaster’s Advantages
Fieldmaster:
- Pros: Durability, affordability, resistance to weather. The Fieldmaster is built to last, which results in a very capable hunting companion.
- Cons: While reliable, it may lack the aesthetic appeal of a Wingmaster.
Wingmaster’s Advantages
Wingmaster:
- Pros: Beautiful aesthetics, high-quality materials. The Wingmaster provides a truly elevated aesthetic experience.
- Cons: Higher price, requires more careful maintenance. The Wingmaster is more expensive, but its beauty and performance make it worth the cost for many shooters.
Making Your Choice: A Final Word
The choice between the 870 Fieldmaster and Wingmaster ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and the specific demands of your intended use. If you prioritize durability, affordability, and resistance to the elements, the Fieldmaster is an excellent choice. Its robust construction and reliable performance make it a great companion for hunting and target shooting in challenging conditions. If you value aesthetics, quality materials, and a classic appearance, the Wingmaster is a worthwhile investment. Its timeless beauty and premium feel provide a more refined shooting experience.
Both the Fieldmaster and the Wingmaster are exceptional shotguns and worthy additions to any gun safe.
Looking Ahead
Remington 870 is a platform that has continually evolved and been iterated on. It may be worth investigating alternative 870 models, such as the Express and the Police models, to find the best match for your needs.
Your Next Steps
To make the best decision, we recommend handling both the Fieldmaster and Wingmaster to evaluate their aesthetics and ergonomics. The best way to determine which shotgun suits you is to try both out and assess which one best fits your needs. Also, remember to always practice safe gun handling and storage.
Good luck with your shotgun search!
