The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and ruggedness. Proper maintenance, including regular disassembly and cleaning, is crucial for ensuring its continued performance and longevity. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, equipping you with the knowledge to keep your 870 in top condition. Remember, always prioritize safety: ensure your firearm is unloaded and the action is open before beginning any disassembly.
Tools You'll Need:
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- A cleaning rod: Preferably one with a jag for attaching cleaning patches.
- Cleaning patches: Choose patches appropriate for the gauge of your shotgun.
- Shotgun solvent: A quality solvent designed for firearms is essential.
- Gun oil: A light gun oil will lubricate moving parts.
- Cotton swabs: Useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- A soft cloth or rags: For wiping down the shotgun.
- A well-lit workspace: Good lighting is essential for a thorough cleaning.
- Owner's Manual: Refer to your specific Remington 870 model's manual for detailed instructions and diagrams.
Step-by-Step Disassembly:
Note: The specific steps may vary slightly depending on your Remington 870 model (Wingmaster, Express, etc.). Always consult your owner's manual for model-specific instructions. This guide provides general steps for common 870 models.
1. Unloading the Firearm:
- Absolutely crucial: Verify the firearm is unloaded. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube.
2. Removing the Bolt Assembly:
- Open the action: Pull the slide or pump all the way back.
- Rotate the safety: Place the safety on "safe" if applicable.
- Remove the bolt: Depending on the model, the bolt may slide straight out or require a slight manipulation. Consult your owner's manual for detailed instructions.
3. Removing the Trigger Group (Optional, for Deep Cleaning):
- This step is generally only necessary for deep cleaning or repairs. It requires more advanced knowledge and can be more complex than other disassembly steps. If you are not comfortable with this step, it's best to leave it to a qualified gunsmith. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions regarding your model.
4. Removing the Forend:
- Locate the forend retaining latch or nut. Its location varies slightly between Remington 870 models. Your owner's manual will guide you precisely.
- Release the latch or loosen the nut and carefully remove the forend.
5. Removing the Barrel (Optional):
- This step is usually required only for barrel replacement or more thorough cleaning. Again, refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions. This often involves removing a locking pin or latch.
Cleaning the Remington 870:
After disassembly, carefully clean each component:
- Use a bore brush and solvent to clean the barrel thoroughly. Push the brush from the breech end to the muzzle.
- Clean the chamber and magazine tube with patches and solvent.
- Clean the bolt assembly, trigger group (if removed), and receiver with a brush and solvent.
- Pay close attention to small parts like the firing pin and extractor. Use cotton swabs to clean crevices.
- After cleaning, thoroughly dry all parts with a clean cloth.
- Lightly lubricate all moving parts with gun oil. Avoid over-lubrication.
Reassembly:
Reassemble the Remington 870 in the reverse order of disassembly. Refer to your owner's manual for precise instructions. Double-check to ensure all parts are correctly seated and that the action functions smoothly.
Maintaining Your Remington 870:
Regular cleaning and lubrication are key to maintaining your Remington 870. The frequency of cleaning will depend on your usage, but cleaning after each shooting session is highly recommended. Proper storage in a dry, cool place also contributes to the shotgun's longevity.
This guide serves as a general overview. Always refer to your Remington 870 owner's manual for model-specific instructions and safety precautions. If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified gunsmith. Safe and responsible gun handling is paramount.
