The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer, understanding how to properly disassemble and clean your 870 is crucial for maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough, complete with images and safety precautions.
Safety First: Handling Your Remington 870
Before you begin any disassembly, always prioritize safety:
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Unloaded Weapon: Absolutely ensure your Remington 870 is unloaded. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube to confirm there are no shells present. Point the muzzle in a safe direction – ideally, downrange at a safe backstop.
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Point in Safe Direction: Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times. Never point the firearm at anything you don't intend to shoot.
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Use Proper Tools: Use the correct tools for the job. Avoid using excessive force, which can damage your firearm.
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Work in a Clean Area: Disassemble and clean your shotgun in a clean, well-lit area to avoid losing small parts or scratching the finish.
Step-by-Step Disassembly of a Remington 870
The Remington 870 disassembly process is relatively straightforward. Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Removing the Bolt Assembly
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Open the Action: With the gun unloaded and pointed in a safe direction, work the pump action to open the breech.
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Remove the Bolt: Press the release button located on the underside of the receiver. You may need to use your thumb to depress the release button. While simultaneously pulling the bolt assembly rearward out of the receiver.
Step 2: Removing the Trigger Group
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Locate the Trigger Group Pin: The trigger group is held in place by a single pin located at the rear of the receiver.
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Remove the Pin: Use a punch or drift to gently tap the pin out from the receiver. The pin will likely go out from either side. Be careful not to damage any receiver components.
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Remove the Trigger Group: After removing the pin, you should be able to gently lift the trigger group out of the receiver.
Step 3: Removing the Magazine Tube Cap and Spring
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Unscrew the Cap: Use a wrench (if necessary) to unscrew the magazine tube cap counter-clockwise. The magazine tube cap may be tight; a rag can help provide good grip without scratching the finish.
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Remove the Spring and Follower: Once the cap is removed, the magazine spring and follower can be removed. Set these aside carefully to avoid losing them.
Step 4: (Optional) Further Disassembly
While not necessary for routine cleaning, you can further disassemble the bolt assembly for a more thorough cleaning. Consult your Remington 870 owner's manual for detailed instructions on this process. Be cautious when handling the firing pin and other delicate components.
Reassembly: A Mirror Image of Disassembly
Reassembly is simply the reverse of disassembly. Follow the steps above in reverse order, ensuring all parts are correctly aligned before reassembling them. Take your time and refer back to the images if necessary. Double-check that the trigger group pin is fully seated before proceeding.
Cleaning Your Remington 870
Once disassembled, clean each part thoroughly using a suitable gun cleaning solvent and patches. Pay close attention to removing any residue or fouling. Lubricate moving parts with a high-quality gun lubricant.
Conclusion: Maintaining Your Remington 870
Regular disassembly and cleaning are essential for maintaining the reliability and performance of your Remington 870. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can keep your shotgun in top condition for years to come. Remember to consult your owner's manual for any specific instructions or recommendations for your particular model. If you're unsure about any part of this process, seek the assistance of a qualified gunsmith.