From the "I don't need it but kinda want it" department:

Last week I cruised one of the pawn shops nearby and saw an 870 Super Magnum on the rack for a really good price. Tempted as heck to buy it, but I have to admit I don't really know what the "Super Magnum" designation tells me.

It's relatively new (plastic trigger guard), and pretty clean (it could use a good scrub, still). Long barrel, choke tube included (turkey choke, maybe?).

Mostly, I want it for the receiver, planning a build of a different sort. I may sell off the barrel, choke, stock, and forend. But I'm still way curious what the Super Magnum thing is all about. Help me out?


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Edited to correct bad spelling.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: vthoky,

It means it can handle 3.5" shells (provided it has a 3.5" Super Magnum barrel on it and it hasn't been swapped for a 3" or 2.75" chambered barrel).

Standard = 2.75" shells only
Magnum = 2.75" and 3" shells
Super Magnum = 2.75", 3", and 3.5" shells

" That was easy."

Thank you, Rogue.

If the 3.5” accommodation adds weight or bulk(likely) that would be a slight negative to me. One can get to max performance, if needed, by getting the best of the 3” ammo.

I think earlier with the non-toxic waterfowl ammo requirements, steel shot was common. With that, 3.5” steel was often used, hence the chamber.

Of course top performing ammo costs more, but it’s an option. In the earlier years, Hevi-shot & Remington HD rated rather well.

If looking more for a home-defense role, the 2 3/4’ will most often get R done.

Of course if one doesn’t mind a few more ounces or bulk, no biggie. The ‘good price’ is nice. The best time to buy used guns is often mid Winter, after the Christmas season.

To handle the 3.5" shells, is the receiver actually longer than that of a Magnum or a standard? Or is it simply a matter of the internals being different?

It has a larger ejection port, a re-designed bolt and different action bars. The external dimensions are the same as a standard Remington 870. From what I've read, the only real situation where you can benefit from a super-mag is if you're trying to hunt high flying geese.

All ground-dwelling prey (winged, 2-legged and 4-legged) can be easily taken with a 2-3/4" or 3" magnum shotshell.

Tony.

Thank you, Tony.

If it'll reliably throw out 2.75" and 3" empties, I'll be okay with that.

I have had a 870 Super Magnum for several years.

Never had a problem throwing 2.75” or 3” hulls.

If your planning on using it as is (sounds like your not) but if so I hope you like recoil because an 870 in 3.5" is pretty severe.

I won't be using any 3.5s, for sure, though I do appreciate the warning.