Built to Endure: A Closer Look at the Remington 887 Nitro Mag
The wind bites at your exposed skin, the scent of damp earth and pine needles fills your lungs, and the thrill of the hunt courses through your veins. This is the moment. You raise your shotgun, the cold steel a reassuring presence in your hands. You know this weapon, intimately. It’s a Remington 887 Nitro Mag, built for this very purpose: to withstand the elements and perform when it matters most.
Remington, a name synonymous with American firearms craftsmanship, has a rich history of producing reliable and effective shotguns. The Remington 887 Nitro Mag builds upon this legacy, offering a pump-action shotgun designed to excel in the harshest conditions. Unlike many shotguns that prioritize traditional aesthetics, the 887 Nitro Mag focuses on ruggedness and functionality, making it a solid choice for hunters and shooters seeking a durable and dependable firearm.
Unveiling the Armor: Receiver and Barrel Construction
The heart of the Remington 887 Nitro Mag lies in its receiver and barrel. Unlike traditional blued steel finishes, which can be susceptible to rust and corrosion, the 887 employs Remington’s innovative ArmorLokt coating. This coating completely encapsulates the receiver and barrel, providing exceptional protection against the elements. Rain, snow, mud, and the general wear and tear of the field pose little challenge to the ArmorLokt finish. This is a crucial advantage for hunters who spend long days outdoors, facing unpredictable weather conditions.
The barrel itself is built to withstand the high pressures generated by modern shotgun shells, including the potent three-and-a-half-inch magnums. You can confidently load the Remington 887 Nitro Mag with a variety of shells, from target loads to heavy-duty hunting rounds, knowing that the barrel is designed for reliable performance. Barrel lengths vary depending on the model and intended use, allowing you to select the best configuration for your specific needs, whether it’s dense cover hunting or open-field shooting. The precise rifling within the barrel contributes to achieving tight shot patterns at various distances, which is vital for consistently harvesting game.
The Action: Smooth and Dependable Pump
The pump action is the cornerstone of any pump-action shotgun, and the Remington 887 Nitro Mag’s action is designed for smooth, reliable operation. The forend, typically crafted from durable synthetic materials, is contoured for a comfortable and secure grip, even with gloved hands. The pump cycles quickly and efficiently, allowing for rapid follow-up shots when needed. The internal mechanics are engineered to minimize friction and ensure consistent cycling, even after extended use in harsh environments.
The robust design of the pump action minimizes the risk of jamming or malfunction, which can be a crucial factor in a hunting or self-defense scenario. The ease of disassembly and cleaning further enhances the reliability of the Remington 887 Nitro Mag. Regular maintenance, primarily focusing on cleaning and lubrication, will ensure the shotgun remains in top operational condition for many years to come. This is a gun you can trust to perform when you need it most.
Stock and Forend: Ergonomics and Handling
The stock and forend play a critical role in the overall handling and feel of the Remington 887 Nitro Mag. The synthetic stock is typically made from a high-impact, weather-resistant polymer. This material provides a comfortable cheek weld and a secure grip, promoting proper alignment with your target. The forend is strategically designed to allow for easy cycling of the pump action while providing a firm grip for control.
The ergonomic design of the stock and forend contributes to the shooter’s overall comfort and accuracy. The pistol grip, when featured, can further enhance control, especially during rapid firing. The length of pull can often be customized with different recoil pads, making the Remington 887 Nitro Mag a good fit for shooters of varying sizes. The synthetic materials are also incredibly low-maintenance, resistant to scratches, and easily cleaned.
Sights and Mounting Options: Aiming for Accuracy
The Remington 887 Nitro Mag usually comes equipped with a bead sight, a simple and effective aiming system for quick target acquisition. This sight configuration is ideal for the quick-pointing nature of shotgun shooting. Additionally, many models include a drilled and tapped receiver, allowing for the installation of scope bases or a Picatinny rail. This versatility makes the Remington 887 Nitro Mag adaptable for different shooting scenarios, including the use of optics.
The ability to mount an optic allows for increased precision at longer ranges, which is particularly helpful in open terrain hunting situations. The Picatinny rail also opens up the possibility of mounting other accessories, such as red dot sights or tactical lights, making the Remington 887 Nitro Mag a versatile platform for various shooting applications. The sight options provide flexibility, tailoring the firearm to the specific needs of the shooter.
Capacity and Chambering: Power and Flexibility
The Remington 887 Nitro Mag is chambered in 12 gauge, a versatile shotgun gauge capable of handling a wide variety of ammunition. The “Nitro Mag” designation signifies its ability to handle three-and-a-half-inch magnum shells. These powerful rounds offer increased pellet counts and greater effective range, making them ideal for hunting larger game or for maximum stopping power.
The magazine tube typically holds three rounds, giving a total capacity of four shells (three in the magazine and one in the chamber). While not offering the highest capacity available, this is a functional and appropriate magazine capacity for hunting and most defensive situations. The 12-gauge chambering allows you to use a wide variety of shell types and loads, from low-recoil target loads to high-powered hunting shells, providing flexibility and adaptability for diverse shooting needs.
Weight and Dimensions: Handling in the Field
The weight and dimensions of the Remington 887 Nitro Mag contribute to its overall feel and handling characteristics. Generally, the shotgun has a substantial feel in the hands, owing to its robust construction. The weight, while not excessive, provides stability during shooting, mitigating felt recoil and promoting accuracy.
The overall length varies depending on the barrel length, with the most common configurations being around forty-seven inches or so. The dimensions are manageable for carrying in the field, making it an excellent choice for hunting and recreational shooting. The balance of the shotgun feels comfortable in the hands, providing ease of use and control. The weight is a trade-off for durability, so knowing how you’ll use the gun helps select the right model.
A Shooting Experience: Control and Confidence
The shooting experience with a Remington 887 Nitro Mag is generally characterized by its reliability and manageable recoil. The pump action cycles smoothly, allowing for quick follow-up shots when needed. While the recoil from three-and-a-half-inch magnum shells can be significant, the shotgun’s weight and design help mitigate the impact, making it manageable even for prolonged shooting sessions.
The gun points naturally, aided by the ergonomics of the stock and forend. The sight picture, whether using the bead sight or an optic, is clear and easy to acquire. You’ll find confidence in the reliability and performance of the Remington 887 Nitro Mag, knowing it’s built to perform in demanding situations.
Advantages and Disadvantages: Weighing the Options
Advantages
The Remington 887 Nitro Mag truly shines in several key areas:
Durability and Weather Resistance: The ArmorLokt coating provides exceptional protection against corrosion and the elements, ensuring the shotgun’s long-term reliability and performance. This makes it ideal for hunting in harsh environments.
Value for the Price: The Remington 887 Nitro Mag offers a significant level of performance and durability at a competitive price point, making it an excellent value proposition for hunters and shooters on a budget.
Reliability: The pump-action design, combined with the robust construction, typically results in a highly reliable shotgun that can be depended on when needed.
Versatility: It can be used for hunting, home defense, and recreational shooting. The ability to handle a wide variety of ammunition adds to its adaptability.
Disadvantages
Weight: Compared to some other shotguns, the Remington 887 Nitro Mag can feel somewhat heavy, especially after carrying it for extended periods in the field.
Finish/Appearance: Some shooters may find the ArmorLokt coating to be less visually appealing than traditional blued finishes. While durable, it lacks the classic appearance of some other shotguns.
Recoil: The recoil from three-and-a-half-inch magnum shells can be substantial, which can be a factor for some shooters.
Potential for Pump Binding: Although rare, in extreme conditions with extensive debris, the pump action could experience binding. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent this.
Compared to the Competition: How Does the Remington 887 Nitro Mag Stack Up?
The Remington 887 Nitro Mag competes with other popular pump-action shotguns.
Compared to the Benelli Nova or SuperNova, the Remington 887 Nitro Mag offers a similar level of reliability and durability at a more accessible price point. While the Benelli shotguns have earned a stellar reputation, the Remington 887 provides excellent value for the performance offered.
Compared to the Mossberg 88 or 500, the Remington 887 Nitro Mag distinguishes itself with its more advanced ArmorLokt finish, enhancing its weather resistance. The Mossberg shotguns are also excellent choices, and the choice often comes down to personal preference and budget.
Ultimately, the Remington 887 Nitro Mag excels in durability and weather resistance, making it a strong contender for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable shotgun for hunting or recreational use.
Accessories: Personalizing Your Shotgun
The Remington 887 Nitro Mag can be customized with a variety of accessories to suit your specific needs. Common additions include:
Choke Tubes: Different choke tubes can be installed to adjust the shot pattern, allowing you to fine-tune your shotgun for different hunting situations or shooting distances.
Slings: A sling makes it easier to carry the shotgun in the field, freeing up your hands for other tasks.
Shell Carriers: Shell carriers, either mounted on the stock or attached to the receiver, provide quick access to additional rounds.
Optics: Scopes or red dot sights, mounted on the receiver, can improve accuracy at longer ranges, especially useful for hunting in open areas.
Maintenance: Keeping Your Remington 887 Nitro Mag in Top Shape
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the long-term reliability and performance of the Remington 887 Nitro Mag.
Cleaning Instructions
After each shooting session or before storage, thoroughly clean the barrel and action of any fouling.
Use a quality gun cleaning solvent and brushes to remove powder residue, lead deposits, and other debris.
Lubricate all moving parts with a light coat of gun oil or lubricant.
Pay particular attention to the ArmorLokt finish, keeping it clean and dry to prevent corrosion.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions for disassembly and reassembly to prevent damage.
Storage Recommendations
Store your Remington 887 Nitro Mag in a secure location, away from children and unauthorized individuals.
Protect the shotgun from extreme temperatures and humidity.
Periodically inspect the shotgun for signs of wear or damage.
A Final Word
The Remington 887 Nitro Mag is a workhorse of a shotgun. It’s a reliable, durable, and versatile firearm that’s built to withstand the rigors of the field. With its robust construction, weather-resistant ArmorLokt finish, and powerful chambering, the Remington 887 Nitro Mag is an excellent choice for hunters, sport shooters, and anyone seeking a dependable pump-action shotgun.
The Verdict
The Remington 887 Nitro Mag is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable, durable, and weather-resistant pump-action shotgun at a reasonable price. Its construction makes it a perfect choice for hunting in challenging conditions. The versatility, ease of use, and overall dependability of the Remington 887 Nitro Mag make it a firearm that you can confidently rely on, season after season.
