Remington 870 Police Magnum 12 Gauge Police Trade-in Shotgun with 20
About this product
Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Remington 870 Police Magnum 12 Gauge Police Trade-in Shotgun with 20 is a robust and reliable pump-action shotgun, field-tested by law enforcement. These shotguns offer significant value for their proven durability. Available now at Kansas Gunshop for $350.0.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
| Product Type | Pump-Action Shotgun |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel Receiver, Steel Barrel, Synthetic/Wood Stock (Varies) |
| Manufacturing | Remington Arms, USA |
| Finish | Matte Blued / Parkerized (Varies with trade-in condition) |
| Hardness/Quality | Law Enforcement Grade, Built for Durability |
| Compatibility | Remington 870 12 Gauge Accessories |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to use, standard pump-action operation |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: Approx. 40.5 inches (with 20-inch barrel) |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | Police Trade-in (Used, Good to Very Good Condition, Wear Consistent with Duty Use) |
| SKU | REM870PM20-TRADE |
What makes the Remington 870 Police Magnum a solid choice?
The Remington 870 Police Magnum is a workhorse, plain and simple. These aren't safe queens; they've seen real-world use, often by law enforcement agencies. What you're getting is a shotgun that's been proven reliable under pressure. The 20-inch barrel offers a good balance of maneuverability and pattern spread, making it versatile for home defense or even some hunting applications where a shorter barrel is preferred. The Police Magnum variant is built with heavier-duty components than the express models, including a steel trigger plate and more robust internal parts, designed for higher round counts and harsher conditions. This isn't just an 870; it's the version built to take a beating and keep on running. Expect cosmetic wear, but mechanically, these are usually sound and ready for more action.
Who is this shotgun for?
Buy it if:
- ✅ You're looking for a reliable, no-frills pump-action shotgun for home defense.
- ✅ You appreciate the proven durability and history of a police trade-in firearm.
- ✅ You want a 12 gauge shotgun that's built tougher than standard civilian models.
- ✅ You're on a budget but still demand a functional and dependable firearm.
- ✅ You enjoy customizing firearms; the 870 platform has extensive aftermarket support.
Skip it if:
- ❌ You demand a pristine, factory-new finish (these are trade-ins, expect cosmetic wear).
- ❌ You prefer a lighter shotgun for extensive field carrying (see our lightweight shotguns for alternatives).
- ❌ You're looking for a dedicated sporting clay or trap gun (while capable, specialized shotguns exist for these roles).
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a police trade-in?
Pros:
- ✅ Proven Reliability: These shotguns have been tested and maintained by professionals, ensuring mechanical soundness.
- ✅ Heavy-Duty Construction: Police Magnum models feature more robust components than standard 870 Express versions.
- ✅ Cost-Effective: You get a high-quality, durable shotgun at a fraction of the cost of a new equivalent.
- ✅ Historical Value: Each one has a story, having served in law enforcement.
- ✅ Aftermarket Support: The Remington 870 platform has one of the widest ranges of aftermarket parts and accessories available.
Cons:
- ❌ Cosmetic Wear: Expect scratches, dings, and finish wear consistent with duty use.
- ❌ Varying Configurations: Trade-ins can come with different stock materials (wood or synthetic) and minor variations in accessories.
- ❌ Potential for Minor Issues: While generally sound, some trade-ins might require minor cleaning or lubrication upon receipt.
How does the Remington 870 Police Magnum compare to other shotguns?
| Feature | Remington 870 Police Magnum (Trade-in) | Maverick 88 Security | Mossberg 590A1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel Receiver, Steel Barrel | Aluminum Receiver, Steel Barrel | Steel Receiver, Heavy-Walled Steel Barrel |
| Quality | Law Enforcement Grade, Duty-Proven | Budget-Friendly, Functional | Military-Spec, Extremely Robust |
| Compatibility | Extensive Remington 870 aftermarket | Some Mossberg 500 parts | Extensive Mossberg 500/590 aftermarket |
| Shipping | From Wichita, KS (FFL required) | From various retailers (FFL required) | From various retailers (FFL required) |
| Lifespan/Durability | Very High (built for heavy use) | Moderate (good for casual use) | Exceptional (built for extreme conditions) |
| Price | ~$350.0 | ~$250-300 | ~$700-900+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a police trade-in shotgun?
A police trade-in shotgun is a firearm previously issued to and used by a law enforcement agency. When agencies upgrade their equipment, they often sell their used firearms to distributors, who then sell them to FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop. These firearms typically show cosmetic wear but are mechanically sound and well-maintained.
Does this Remington 870 Police Magnum come with any accessories?
Police trade-in shotguns typically come as the firearm only. Any accessories like slings, shell holders, or specific chokes are generally not included unless explicitly stated. What you see is what you get, which is a functional shotgun.
What kind of ammunition can I use in this 12 gauge shotgun?
The Remington 870 Police Magnum is chambered for 12 gauge shells, up to 3 inches. You can use a wide variety of 12 gauge ammunition, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs, depending on your intended use. Always verify the specific shell length with the barrel markings before loading.
How much recoil should I expect from a 12 gauge pump-action?
A 12 gauge pump-action shotgun, especially with heavier loads like buckshot or slugs, will have noticeable recoil. The amount of recoil can vary based on the ammunition type, the shooter's stance, and the presence of any recoil-absorbing features on the stock. It's manageable for most shooters with proper technique.
Where can I buy shotguns online?
You can buy shotguns online from licensed Federal Firearm License (FFL) dealers. Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com) offers a selection of shotguns, including this Remington 870 Police Magnum. All online firearm purchases require shipment to a local FFL dealer for transfer, adhering to all state and federal laws.
What kind of maintenance does a police trade-in 870 need?
Like any firearm, regular cleaning and lubrication are essential. Given its trade-in status, a thorough initial cleaning upon receipt is always recommended to remove any lingering grime or old lubricants. Pay attention to the action bars, bolt, and barrel for optimal performance.
Is the 20-inch barrel suitable for hunting?
Yes, a 20-inch barrel can be suitable for certain types of hunting, particularly in brushy terrain where maneuverability is key, or for deer hunting with slugs. For waterfowl or upland birds requiring longer shots and tighter patterns, a longer barrel (26-28 inches) is often preferred, but the 20-inch barrel is certainly capable for many hunting scenarios.
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