usp_fan
Member
Monday I went to a local chain store (Sheel's) and picked up a new '06 model 870 express with a 26" barrel. I've been trying to find the right shotgun for me for the last year and a half. After buying and selling a Nova, and an 835, I realized the 3.5" guns were just a bit too long for me to pump reliably. I then tried several semi's and almost bought the Stoeger 2000. In the end, the best fit and value ($30.00 rebate on right now) for me was the 870.
These new express models seem a bit nicer than the express sold last year. The laminate wood stock is an asthetic step up. The safety still has the little key hole in it, but I've been led to believe it's easily replaced. The mag tube still uses dimples to retain the spring guide. Perhaps upgrade that stands out the most is the machined rib. Many of the expresses I handled had plain ribs and they often weren't straight. The rib on the new guns seems to be attached straight, and it is machined with a small semi cresent pattern allong its length.
I took it out today to patern it and test for function. It worked as it should and shot where it was pointed. After I follow McCracken's BA/UU/R break in proceedure, I'm sure the action will smooth out quite a bit. I'm looking forward to pheasant season this year.
--usp_fan
These new express models seem a bit nicer than the express sold last year. The laminate wood stock is an asthetic step up. The safety still has the little key hole in it, but I've been led to believe it's easily replaced. The mag tube still uses dimples to retain the spring guide. Perhaps upgrade that stands out the most is the machined rib. Many of the expresses I handled had plain ribs and they often weren't straight. The rib on the new guns seems to be attached straight, and it is machined with a small semi cresent pattern allong its length.
I took it out today to patern it and test for function. It worked as it should and shot where it was pointed. After I follow McCracken's BA/UU/R break in proceedure, I'm sure the action will smooth out quite a bit. I'm looking forward to pheasant season this year.
--usp_fan