Lastly, I do believe that military use is the best way to bring out the strengths and weaknesses of ANY piece of equipment. I have worked for the Army Ordnance Corp for the past 27 years and see every day the kind of abuse that stuff takes. If something can stand up to a soldier, it should stand up to anything. If it doesn’t stand up it gets updated or replaced. The M1911, M1 Garand, etc.. did not get their reputation in the hunting fields. The M16 did have issues and they were remedied in later versions to the fine weapon they are today. I believe the 870 has stood up to this “test of time” as well.
Thank you for very well put together and constructive post.
I am not usually that bipolar - I do understand that firearms are series of compromises; but enough is enough. Nothing in your post made me change my mind about 870. Kids, dogs and guns - I love them all, I just don't let my love cloud my judgement.
I did quote the part about military use - Remington refused to do the military testing - Mossberg 500 didn't, it passed; with metal safety and trigger guards revisions AKA m590a1 - the only shotgun under military "contract".
Correct me if I am wrong - all 870 in mil/police use are independent purchases/donations (maybe an Airforce contract to scare off birds at the air field?)