I snagged an early 870 Police to use as home defense tool and then started to research them and found out that I have the one with the early shell carrier that could cause a jam that would render it useless. I tried to cause a jam by short stroking and could not get it to happen. I have owned 870's in the past and had one that did jam sometime and another one that was good to go. Should I be worried about the early early shell carrier ?

870’s are highly dependable if run right. Doubt you will have any issue unless you short stroke but even then it won't jam and render useless.

Best thing you can do us go shoot it see if you can find any issues.

No, don't worry about it. I have four 870 combat shot guns. 3 modified by VangComp Systems and one from the late 80'- early 90's, which is unmodified except for a sling, side saddle and shorter length of pull. I've had no issues with. Run it like you mean it. I've used it as a loaner in our Defensive Shotgun classes. Zero issues..

Dave

Some of the 3” guns act up with shorter shells; shouldn’t, but some do.