As teh subject line states, I am trying to fnid out what the differences are between the 870 express and the 870 wingmaster.

Thanks
Jeff

Not too much, the wood and finish is better andthere is added scroll work (not much)on the wingmaster. Both are the same mechanically, both shoot the same.

One I suggest you look down the barrel. An express barrel is very wavy, not as smooth by a longshot.Second, the 870 express has a pressed in bead, you cannot just screw it out like a wingmaster. Wood of course, along with finish.

I say that and have 2 express's. One thing I love about express's, I don't mind to take them in the nastiest saltiest swamp there is.

I'm with ya BC. My 870 express has been used to kill ducks, squirells, rabbits, pigs, doves etc. Its also been a great paddle, snake squasher and walkin stick. I even pulled the barrel and used it to break my window when I locked my keys in the truck. I have flat out abused this gun and it still functions flawlessly. If you want a better looking gun, get the wingmaster. If you want a tool that can and will be used for anything, get the express.

I got a Express combo about 20 years ago. Other than the wood and finish theres no difference. I wouldn't know about the bore being better?? I've put mine through as much abuse as any gun should be put through and It's still one of my favorites. Oh yeah $200-$300 difference maybe

I own both an 870 express and wingmaster. After the post about the wavy barrel of the express I just had to check. I have no idea what you are talking about. I guess I have a great express or a lousey wingmaster for I really can't see the difference that you posted. I would say that the wingmaster has a nicer wood finish (more defined grain pattern)but then again I like the satin finish of the express also. Both shoot equally well and both have 28 in barrels. I use them as goose guns and have harvested many birds with each of them.

My wingmaster had a steel trigger guard assembly while my express had a synthetic trigger guard assembly.

I doubt a guy like you could really wt. It just the way it is.

Thanks for everybodies input, think I will be going with the express as it's my first shotgun and need functional and not too pretty, lol, that first scratch won't hurt as much then

Brand new... about $400.

Used... dang near the same.

The older wingmasters are just as the name states.... some of the finest swinging fowl and feather guns ever. I got lucky enough to pick up a Magnum from the 70s (back when Rem made good guns) for nay $300 two years ago. Had thinwall chokes put in... love the thing as dear as my 390.

Seems to me they were much much lighter, and just better balanced. Probably machined in the old days, rather than stamped and cast like those new abominations they make now.

Color me nostalgic.