870 police magnum or Wingmaster?

[johnmoney]

I'm settled on getting an 870 but divided on which model to get. I want a competent shotgun for skeet shooting, hunting, and home defense and prepared to buy different barrels to suit those different purposes.

I like the aesthetics of blued steel on walnut which is why I'm torn between the Wingmaster and blued 870P. I got to handle an 870P today and really liked the way it felt. Racking the 870P was just as smooth as the Wingmaster but also a little tighter which felt nice.

The gun store clerk assured me that the 870P, with a simple barrel swap, would take care of my shooting needs while saving me a few extra dollars.

So I'm looking for opinions on which gun I should get. What are the pros and cons of both models for in regards to skeet, hunting, and HD? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[aippi]

The 870P is nothing but a parkerized Wingmaster so there is not differnce other then the finish. The Wingmaster is a sporting weapon and the P of course has the shorter barrel and different stocks.

So get the one that fits your needs since they are the same.

[Cali-Shooter]

The 870 series is a good choice. There are TONS of aftermarket barrels, accessories, etc. I would pick an 870 that has 8+1 capacity, although I *think* that that would make barrel replacing difficult. Look into shotguns with screw on chokes also.

[DHart]

I like the aesthetics of blued steel on walnut which is why I'm torn between the Wingmaster and blued 870P. I got to handle an 870P today and really liked the way it felt. Racking the 870P was just as smooth as the Wingmaster but also a little tighter which felt nice.

It sounds like the blued 870P you handled was one of the new production walnut & blued 870P's. They are wonderful guns and practically identical to the Wingmaster, aside from checkering on the stock set and slight barrel difference. So I agree that for the cost savings of the blued/walnut 870P vs. a new Wingmaster the blued/walnut 870P (if you're getting it for around $460 or so) is a wonderful bargain vs. a Wingmaster. Go for the blued/walnut 870P for $460! That's a superb gun for a really low price!

[BigBoyPinoy]

Get one of each and throw in a Mossy 590a1 as well! The new 870P w/wood for under $500 sounds like a good deal.

[johnmoney]

They are wonderful guns and practically identical to the Wingmaster, aside from checkering on the stock set and slight barrel difference. So I agree that for the cost savings of the blued/walnut 870P vs. a new Wingmaster the blued/walnut 870P (if you're getting it for around $460 or so) is a wonderful bargain vs. a Wingmaster. Go for the blued/walnut 870P for $460! That's a superb gun for a really low price!

DHart -

Does the 870P have a fixed barrel?

[DHart]

Fixed IC I believe.

[Black Majik]

I'd get a new 28" Wingmaster, then pick up a short blued barrel from aippi. The new prodcution 870s will also chamber 3" shells, so make sure the barrel you buy accepts 2 3/4" and 3" shells as well.

If you choose to purchase a older Wingmaster (which I prefer since they feel smoother), find one with the serial # ending in M, denoting Magnum and accepts 3" shells.

I do prefer a rem-choke barrel overall, since I can use Briley's extended chokes for clays.

[bsg]

i have a new 870P. i installed a Wilson +2 extension and mesa tactical stock with buffer because i have had both clavicles broken a few times. i'm not extremely knowledgeable regarding aftermarket parts for the 870 and aippi gave sound advise that i followed. that being said... i went and did it; i bought a pristine 1965 Wingmaster from a helpful seller on gunbroker. this shotgun has brushmaster 20" ic smooth bore barrel with factory rifle sights. the magazine extension matches the metal coloring perfectly, the wood is outstanding and the metal patina just pulls you in.... when i picked it up at Alamo Pawn in west covina (sent from louisiana) the three customers and counter guy were all shocked when it was brought out to me, and it was like a moment of reverence; oohs and ahhs were said and done. i had seen pictures but... what a beautiful shotgun. i'd like to mention i was treated very well at Alamo Pawn. i paid a bit for the Wingmaster ($385) but have not a regret for so doing. nothing needs to be done to this shotgun; perhaps an oversized safety and wilson follower and spring. i partially bought this Wingmaster to replace one that i sold years ago.

so which one should you buy? i really think either or. i am personally more excited about my Wingmaster i just got. i too, love the aesthetics of wood and blued finish. enjoy your search for the shotgun you desire.