For decades the 870 has been the pump gun many families own, and the Express is the version that puts it in reach. This one is a 12 gauge with a 26" barrel, a four-round capacity, a matte black finish, and a weight of 7.25 pounds.

The maker says the receiver is milled from a solid billet of steel for strength and reliability, and twin action bars prevent binding and twisting, so you can get off a second shot without a fight. The Express is the working version, with non-reflective black metalwork and a simple stock and fore-end. Take a young or new shooter along and teach safe handling before the first shot.

A 26" barrel is a middle length that suits many jobs. It swings well on doves and clay birds and carries comfortably in the field.

Spare barrels, stocks, and parts are easy to find, so you can turn an 870 into a different gun later on. That is part of its long appeal.

Brand new. It ships to a North Carolina FFL dealer for pickup and the background check.