Rem Sportsman 12 pump vs. 870 Express

[ReadyontheRight]

What do you think? I'm looking at an older Sportmen 12 (pump, not auto) for $165 vs. a Rem Express to turn into an inexpensive HD shotgun.

Is the 1980s Sportsman 12 built any better than a new Express model?

 

[dfariswheel]

As I recall the Sportsman series was sort of the Express of it's day.

In other words a budget version of the more expensive guns.

However, unlike the Express, I recall that the Sportsman series cut the price by using hardwood stocks, pressed in checkering and varnish-type wood finishes, not by using plastic parts and different magazine assemblies.

So, If I remember the gun correctly, I'd probably go for the Sportsman over a current Express.

 

[Dave McCracken]

It's an 870. Lasts forever, works anywhere. $165 is a darn good price....