Welcome to right this moment’s Picture of the Day! This Vietnam-era Remington 870 Mark 1 represents the Marine Corps’ modernized tackle the basic trench gun idea. Relationship from the mid-Nineteen Sixties (pre-1968 primarily based 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 navy 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 navy 870s is how poorly documented they’re – Remington’s navy information stay largely unreleased. We find out about a 1969 Marine Corps contract for 3,231 shotguns, however serial quantity ranges weren’t specified within the contract data. This specific instance exhibits 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” guide notes about many Mark 1s being reconfigured with shorter barrels throughout their service life. The Mark 1’s first vital 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 status as a dependable fight shotgun, resulting in its continued use via Desert Storm and even into Afghanistan. Full with its net 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 right this moment.
“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.
