Author Topic: opinions please on older 870 wingmaster (Read 620 times)

jpstrait · « **on:** July 04, 2005, 09:41:32 AM »

I have an opportunity to buy an older 870 wingmaster ,2 3/4 shell only, with fixed improved cylinder. I would be using it for shooting clays for fun, dove and quail hunting. My question is do you guys feel that the fixed improved cylinder is sufficient for what I would be using it for or should I try for one with the screw in chokes? Also, is their really much of a difference in pattern with I.C. vs modified vs full? Thanks for any replies, J-P

Sx2 · « **Reply #1 on:** July 04, 2005, 10:18:27 AM »

With lead shot (unless in a steel mandated area) 7.5~8 shot should work fine for Quail in cover and dove out to 25~30 yards. Steel may just pattern a bit tighter than leads in the same choke.
You can always upgrade the barrel to a ne Remington Light Contour with screw in chokes for little money. I did this with my 870 and like it a lot.

I'm a ardent supporter of gun patterning.

Graybeard · « **Reply #2 on:** July 04, 2005, 02:37:55 PM »

Buy it and never look back. There is no better all round gun for the uses you mention. IC is all you really need for most of it.

msorenso · « **Reply #3 on:** July 05, 2005, 02:09:51 AM »

I agree. Buy and don't look back. For what you are doing it is a perfect set up!

Charcoal · « **Reply #4 on:** July 05, 2005, 04:06:19 PM »

I would buy it too.The IC would be perfect for your game needs,wont bust up the birds.If you find you need tighter patterns at longer ranges you can always add a screw in choke barrel.I like the older 870s with the chromed bolts,much smoother than the newer remmies ive handled.

Bad Bob · « **Reply #5 on:** July 12, 2005, 07:49:45 AM »

When I hunted a lot of quail, 200-300 a year I used a modified barrel and 7/8 oz shot in the 20 ga. When I went to the IC barrel I would get a cripple or an occasional dropped leg. The modified would be my choice for hunting cause it worked for ME. The IC may be a better choice for you for all around uses and you can always add the tubes. FYI...

z1 · « **Reply #6 on:** July 12, 2005, 02:42:13 PM »

If you put all the quail and doves my Pa has taken with his IC barrels into a pile you could not load them into a semi trailer.

But he is patient and does choose his shots.

As GB said, get it and run.

z1 · « **Reply #7 on:** July 12, 2005, 02:50:52 PM »

Forgot to mention that I am now on my third 870. The first was a 16 that I began shooting while in grade school. That was replaced with a 12 when the 16 ga shells dried up.

A couple of years ago I decided I had to have a new 870 with the matte finish. There was nothing wrong with the one I was using.

I am now 52. The best we can remember I got the first 12 for Christmas when I was 18. Now that 16 ga shells are more available...