I had a 1953 Magnum that had the Vari-weight and 30 inch Full Choke plain barrel. I traded it to a friend who collected 870's for a 1983 Wingmaster Magnum with 28 inch RC/VR barrel and 20 inch iron sighted IC choked slug barrel, which I still have and use.
I don't remember if my 1953 was a Wingmaster or not. It had a gorgeous, factory oil finished stock. The original, factory blue was a duller and lighter shade than it's 1983 cousin; almost looked like rust bluing. I also don't remember if it had a pad. It was all original, un-modified. I think that 1953 was the 2d year production 870 but first year Magnum.
All metal 870's are a great shotgun. The newer ones may be just as good, but I don't like composite material where metal once was. I am a dinosaur, I know it, and am proud of it!
