Welcome to at this time’s Photo of the Day! This Vietnam-era Remington 870 Mark 1 represents the Marine Corps’ modernized tackle the basic trench gun idea. Courting from the mid-Sixties (pre-1968 based mostly on the serial quantity missing the “S” prefix), it options the distinctive bayonet adapter meeting that allowed it to mount the identical M7 bayonet used on M16 rifles – a primary for army shotguns. What makes the Mark 1 totally different from civilian 870s is that bayonet lug/sight combo, the parkerized end, and the prolonged 7-round journal tube. This was the Marine Corps’ answer for clearing tunnels, close-quarters fight, and safety duties the place the shotgun’s stopping energy made it particularly efficient. The attention-grabbing half about army 870s is how poorly documented they’re – Remington’s army information stay principally unreleased. We find out about a 1969 Marine Corps contract for 3,231 shotguns, however serial quantity ranges weren’t specified within the contract info. This specific instance reveals indicators of arsenal rework – the barrel has been changed with a 20-inch model that includes a “WA” 1980 date code and adjustable rear sight. This matches what Canfield’s “Fight Shotguns” e book notes about many Mark 1s being reconfigured with shorter barrels throughout their service life. The Mark 1’s first important fight use was reportedly through the 1975 Mayaguez disaster when Marines recaptured an American ship seized by Cambodian forces. Their efficiency in that operation cemented the 870’s repute as a dependable fight shotgun, resulting in its continued use by means of Desert Storm and even into Afghanistan. Full with its internet sling and Imperial M7 bayonet with inexperienced M8A1 scabbard, this represents a key step within the evolution of fight shotguns from the WWI-era trench weapons to the tactical weapons nonetheless used at this time.
“U.S.M.C. Mark 1 Variant Remington 870 Wingmaster Trench Shotgun.” Rock Island Public sale Firm, https://www.rockislandauction.com/element/4094/346/usmc-mark-1-variant-remington-870-wingmaster-trench-shotgun. Accessed 7 Apr. 2025.
Author | TheFirearmBlog
Author | AllOutdoor.com Instagram | sfsgunsmith Outdated soul, licensed gunsmith, revealed creator, avid firearm historical past learner, and appreciator of outdated and distinctive weapons.
Trending Merchandise
