? on difference between 870 Express and 870P

**tkoglman** · 02-24-08, 00:14

I have been reading up on the differences between the 870 express and the 870P models. I guess I really never noticed the differences until now because my 870 express is kind of in between.

I purchased an 870 express magnum combo in 1993. It has the crappy finish that I'm always fighting rust on and the silly dimples in the mag tube.

OTH it has a metal trigger housing group - years of abuse makes it readily apparent - and the mag. cap is held in place by a steel spring loaded detent.

What is up with my 870? Was there a transition period where 870 expresses had the metal trigger housing groups?

**Robb Jensen** · 02-24-08, 09:07

Originally Posted by tkoglman

I have been reading up on the differences between the 870 express and the 870P models. I guess I really never noticed the differences until now because my 870 express is kind of in between.

I purchased an 870 express magnum combo in 1993. It has the crappy finish that I'm always fighting rust on and the silly dimples in the mag tube.

OTH it has a metal trigger housing group - years of abuse makes it readily apparent - and the mag. cap is held in place by a steel spring loaded detent.

What is up with my 870? Was there a transition period where 870 expresses had the metal trigger housing groups?

I had three 870 Express' from 1988 that metal trigger groups, so the change was after that. These also didn't have the dimples in the mag tubes.

**RD62** · 02-24-08, 14:47

My 870 Express Magnum combo has metal trigger group, dimpled mag tube, and express style mag cap retention. Don't remember exactly when I bought it, but I'd have to say about '93 too, maybe '94.

-RD62