Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and FFL transfers. The Remington 870 Police Magnum 12 Gauge Police Trade-In is a robust, used pump-action shotgun built for duty. Its proven reliability makes it a practical choice for various applications. Available now for $499.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Remington 870 Police Magnum?
| Product Type | Shotgun |
|---|---|
| Model | Remington 870 Police Magnum |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Action | Pump-Action |
| Barrel Length | Likely 18.5″ or 20″ (Varies with trade-in) |
| Chamber | 3″ Magnum |
| Capacity | 4+1 or 6+1 (Varies with trade-in) |
| Material | Steel Receiver, Steel Barrel, Synthetic Stock/Forend |
| Manufacturing | Remington Arms, USA |
| Finish | Matte Blued or Parkerized (Varies with trade-in, shows wear) |
| Hardness/Quality | Duty-grade, built for hard use |
| Compatibility | Standard Remington 870 accessories (stocks, forends, extensions) |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to use, requires standard firearm safety and operation knowledge |
| Weight | Approx. 7-8 lbs (Varies with configuration) |
| Dimensions | Overall length varies with barrel and stock (e.g., ~38.5″ with 18.5″ barrel) |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | Police Trade-In (Used, good to very good functional condition, cosmetic wear) |
| SKU | REM870PM-TRADEIN-12G |
What are the key features of this police trade-in shotgun?
- Duty-Proven Reliability: The Remington 870 Police Magnum is a design that has seen decades of service with law enforcement agencies. These shotguns are built to run when it counts.
- 12 Gauge Power: Chambered for 12 gauge, it handles a wide range of ammunition, from birdshot to slugs and buckshot, including 3-inch magnum loads.
- Robust Construction: Features a steel receiver and a heavy-duty barrel, designed to withstand the rigors of police work and extended use.
- Police Trade-In Value: Offers a functional, reliable shotgun at a more accessible price point than new models. The “orange stock” on some of these trade-ins often indicates they were training guns or designated less-lethal platforms, which means they might have seen less live-fire use with lethal ammunition.
- Simple Operation: The pump-action mechanism is straightforward, reliable, and requires no batteries or complex electronics.
- Aftermarket Support: The Remington 870 platform has extensive aftermarket support, allowing for customization and upgrades if desired.
Who is the Remington 870 Police Magnum 12 Gauge Police Trade-In for?
Buy it if:
- You need a dependable, no-frills defensive shotgun for home protection.
- You appreciate the history and ruggedness of a law enforcement service weapon.
- You’re looking for a practical, budget-friendly shotgun for general utility, hunting, or range use.
- You want a platform with a vast array of aftermarket parts and accessories for future customization.
- You understand that a police trade-in will show cosmetic wear but is functionally sound.
Skip it if:
- You demand a pristine, factory-new firearm with no cosmetic blemishes.
- You prefer a semi-automatic action for faster follow-up shots (see our Shotguns category for semi-auto alternatives).
- You are looking for a lightweight shotgun for extensive carrying in the field, as these are built robustly.
Pros and Cons of the Remington 870 Police Magnum Trade-In
- ✅ Extreme Reliability: Proven in demanding law enforcement environments.
- ✅ Durable Construction: Built for hard use and longevity.
- ✅ Cost-Effective: Offers significant value compared to a new shotgun.
- ✅ Versatile: Handles a wide range of 12 gauge ammunition.
- ✅ Simple Maintenance: Easy to field strip and clean.
- ❌ Cosmetic Wear: As a trade-in, expect scratches, dings, and finish wear.
- ❌ Fixed Configuration: May not have the exact stock/forend or barrel length you desire without modification (see our Shotgun Parts for accessories).
- ❌ Heavier Recoil: Compared to lighter hunting shotguns, especially with magnum loads.
How does it compare to other shotguns?
| Feature | Remington 870 Police Magnum Trade-In | Maverick 88 Security | Mossberg 590A1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel receiver, heavy steel barrel | Aluminum receiver, steel barrel | Steel receiver, heavy steel barrel |
| Quality | Duty-grade, built to withstand abuse | Entry-level, functional | Military-spec, robust |
| Compatibility | Extensive 870 aftermarket | Some Mossberg 500 parts | Extensive Mossberg 500/590 aftermarket |
| Shipping | Same-day from Kansas Gunshop | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Decades of service possible with maintenance | Good for casual use, less robust than duty guns | Designed for extreme durability |
| Price | $499.00 (used) | ~$250 – $300 (new) | ~$800 – $1000+ (new) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Police Trade-In” mean for a Remington 870?
A “Police Trade-In” means the shotgun was previously owned and used by a law enforcement agency. These firearms are typically well-maintained mechanically but will show cosmetic signs of use, such as scratches, dings, and finish wear from being carried and handled. They are generally functionally reliable.
Is a Remington 870 Police Magnum suitable for home defense?
Yes, the Remington 870 Police Magnum is a widely recognized and effective choice for home defense. Its 12 gauge chambering, reliable pump-action, and robust construction make it a formidable deterrent and defensive tool.
Can I hunt with a Remington 870 Police Magnum?
While designed for duty, a Remington 870 Police Magnum can certainly be used for hunting, especially with appropriate barrel and choke modifications. Many police trade-ins come with shorter barrels, which might limit their effectiveness for certain types of hunting (e.g., waterfowl), but they are perfectly capable for deer or upland game with the right setup.
What is the significance of an orange stock on some trade-in shotguns?
An orange stock often indicates that the shotgun was designated for training purposes or for firing less-lethal ammunition (like beanbag rounds) within a law enforcement agency. This can sometimes mean the firearm has seen less live-fire use with standard ammunition, potentially preserving the barrel and action more than a primary duty weapon.
Where can I buy shotguns online?
You can buy shotguns online, including this Remington 870 Police Magnum, from Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We process the order and ship it to your chosen FFL dealer for transfer, in compliance with all federal and local laws.
What kind of ammunition does the Remington 870 Police Magnum use?
The Remington 870 Police Magnum is chambered for 12 gauge, capable of firing both 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch magnum shells. This allows for a wide variety of ammunition types, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs.
Are parts and accessories readily available for the Remington 870?
The Remington 870 is one of the most popular shotgun platforms ever made, meaning parts, accessories, and aftermarket upgrades are exceptionally abundant and easy to find from numerous manufacturers. You can customize nearly every aspect of the shotgun.
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