Last updated March 2026 · By Nick Hall, Remington 870 TAC-14 shooter who has run the firearm (not shotgun) at the range
Remington 870 TAC-14 For Sale
The Remington 870 TAC is aimed purely at home defense. With a 26.4 inch overall length it’s an exceptionally maneuverable firearm that comes with the visual impact too thanks to that bird’s head Shockwave Raptor pistol grip.
You only get 4+1 rounds, so this shotgun does suffer from a lack of capacity. Like most of them. But it’s the first line of defense and, when coupled with a high capacity handgun, it should get you through most home defense situations.
Just be ready to throw it down and draw a second weapon, or you’re cutting it fine.
Because it’s long enough and cannot be shouldered, it isn’t classed as a full shotgun either, or a short-barrel shotgun. That means it isn’t subject to federal Class3/NFA regulations and you don’t have to register it as such.
Need More Shells? You Have a Problem
If you need more shells than this, you’ve got a seriously determined invader on your hands and you’ll wish you’d plumped for the mag fed Remington that is basically better in every way.
Check out a selection of magazine fed shotguns here.
For most of us, one or two shotgun blasts is enough to convince most people they have got the wrong house. It could also be a useful weapon to deter bears and other large wildlife too.
It’s a fixed choke, aim and fire shotgun that takes 2 and ¾ and 3” shells. So you can load it up with brutal shells and keep it next to your bed for the worst case scenario.
Remington have a reputation for reliability, which is the main factor in a home defense shotgun. You want to know it’s going to work and you can sacrifice extra shells and bells and whistles for a gun that is going to protect you and your family when you need it most.
It’s a cost-effective shotgun, and it’s on sale right now at Brownells.
Remington 870 TAC Need to Know
- Class: No Class 3/NFA requirements
- Capacity: 4+1 shells
- Length: 26”
- Weight: 5.65lb
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Remington 870 TAC-14 legal?
Yes. The TAC-14 is classified as a firearm, not a shotgun, because it was never built with a stock. At 26.3 inches overall with a 14-inch barrel, it meets federal requirements. Check your state laws.
Is the TAC-14 good for home defense?
Yes. The compact size makes it maneuverable in tight spaces. 12-gauge stopping power in a short package. The bird head grip requires practice to control but delivers devastating close-range performance.
How many rounds does the TAC-14 hold?
4 plus 1 in the chamber for 5 total rounds of 12-gauge. The short magazine tube limits capacity. Some aftermarket magazine extensions are available but may affect legal classification.
Is the TAC-14 hard to shoot?
The bird head grip and short barrel produce significant recoil and muzzle blast. It requires proper grip technique and practice. Start with lighter loads before moving to full-power buckshot.
What is the difference between TAC-14 and Shockwave?
Both are 14-inch barreled pump-action firearms with bird head grips. The TAC-14 is built on the Remington 870 action. The Shockwave uses the Mossberg 590 action. Both are excellent.
Can I put a stock on a TAC-14?
Adding a stock creates a short-barreled shotgun requiring NFA registration. With the federal tax stamp elimination in 2026, SBR/SBS registration is now free. Check current ATF rules.
What ammo is best for the TAC-14?
Federal FliteControl 00 buckshot and Hornady Critical Defense are top picks. Reduced recoil loads are recommended for better control from the short platform. Avoid birdshot for defensive use.
How much does the Remington 870 TAC-14 cost?
Typically 400 to 500 dollars depending on configuration and retailer. The TAC-14 is competitively priced against the Mossberg Shockwave. Both offer strong value for compact defensive firepower.
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