This is an extremely rare Vietnam issue Model 870 Mark 1 shotgun. Officially adopted by the U.S. Marine Corps in Spring of 1969 after extensive trials at Quantico, signing a contract with Remington on May 13, 1969 for 3,230 Mark 1 shotguns. These 870 Mark 1 shotguns are noted in the serial range S08134V-S127697V, with the serial number of this example correctly falling within the range. In the book "United States Combat Shotguns" by Bruce Canfield (pg 155) it states "One of the earliest combat uses of the Mark 1 was in the hands of the Marines during the Mayaguez affair. This incident occurred in May of 1975 during which an American ship was captured in international waters by hostile Cambodians. The Mark 1 was a key weapon employed by the Marine boarding party which retook the ship and the subsequent operations against the Cambodians on a nearby island. From all indications, the Model 870 Mark 1 immediately proved its worth as a combat weapon." Equipped with blade front and express adjustable rear sights. This shotgun features a parkerized finish, bayonet adapter for mounting the M7 bayonet as used on the M16 rifle, and is the first military issued shotgun with a seven-round magazine extension. Left side of barrel marked "12 GA. FOR 2 3/4 OR SHORTER SHELLS" and "WES" date code at the breech (Either August or October of 1969). Right side of barrel with three-line Remington address and patents. Left side of receiver marked "Remington/S094319V" and "Wingmaster/MODEL 870". Smooth oil finished forearm and pistol grip stock with a black plastic serrated buttplate. 14 inch length of pull. Includes canvas web sling.