870 Express model differences

[jduff8505]

Howdy ya'll,

I have 4 Express 12g shotguns. 3 have Express Magnum stamped on the receiver, and I have a newer one that doesn't have it stamped on the receiver. Does that mean it won't take the 3" shell? It has the barrel that says 2 3/4 and 3 3 1/2 super mag only.

[Synchronizor]

Engravings vary. My magnum Express just says "Remington 870" on the side.

As far as I know, all Express receivers are either magnum (3" or shorter) or super magnum (3.5" or shorter). Super Magnum 870s are easy to identify by their larger ejection ports and the spring loaded port cover on the bolt. 2.75"-only 870 receivers have serial numbers ending in a "V". If it's not a SuperMag and the serial number doesn't end in a "V", it should be a magnum receiver.

If your barrel has a 3.5" chamber, it'll handle 3" or shorter shells just fine. 3.5" shells will jam if you try to use them in a non-SuperMag receiver.

[BlenderWizard]

Per a conversation I had with a Remington CS rep a few years back, all magnum receivers will have a serial number that ends in "M"

[Synchronizor]

Per a conversation I had with a Remington CS rep a few years back, all magnum receivers will have a serial number that ends in "M"

I think that used to be the case, but later 12ga Magnum (3") receivers can have serial numbers ending in a variety of letters. Mine ends in a "D", and I'm pretty sure I've seen "T" & "S" in gun stores as well. Basically, if it's a 12ga, and it doesn't have a serial number ending in "V" (2.75"-only) or "A" (3.5" SuperMag), it should be a Magnum. As always, confirm that the barrel is chambered for the shells you're shooting, as standard 12ga 870 barrels and receivers can be freely mixed & matched.