The Remington 870 shotgun is a legendary firearm, renowned for its reliability, durability, and ease of maintenance. Understanding its assembly and disassembly is crucial for proper cleaning, repair, and safe handling. While a visual Remington 870 assembly diagram is invaluable, this guide provides a detailed textual explanation to complement any diagrams you may find. We'll break down the process step-by-step, ensuring even novice users can confidently assemble their 870. Remember, always unload your firearm and ensure it's clear before attempting any disassembly or assembly.
Understanding the Remington 870's Components
Before diving into the assembly, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the key parts. A typical Remington 870 consists of the following major components:
- Receiver: The main body of the shotgun, housing the firing mechanism.
- Barrel: The long tube from which the shot is expelled.
- Bolt: The moving part that chambers and ejects shells.
- Bolt Handle: The lever used to operate the bolt.
- Trigger Group: Contains the trigger, sear, and hammer.
- Stock and Forend: The wooden or synthetic parts you grip.
- Magazine Tube: Holds the shells to be fed into the action.
- Magazine Cap: The end cap of the magazine tube.
Step-by-Step Remington 870 Assembly
This guide assumes you've already disassembled your 870. If not, consult a separate disassembly guide first. Remember to always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions relevant to your model.
1. Installing the Trigger Group
This is often the first step in reassembly. Carefully align the trigger group with the receiver's corresponding slots and guides. Ensure it's seated correctly, and all pins and components are properly aligned. A slight push and a click will confirm it's in place. Forcing it will risk damaging the receiver or trigger group.
2. Attaching the Barrel
With the trigger group secured, align the barrel with the receiver's barrel lug. You'll feel and hear a distinct "click" as the barrel rotates and locks into place. Ensure the barrel is fully seated before proceeding. Improperly seated barrels can lead to malfunctions and potential injury.
3. Securing the Bolt
Insert the bolt into the receiver, ensuring the bolt handle is aligned correctly. Push the bolt forward until it locks. You should feel resistance as the bolt locks into place. Check the movement of the bolt; it should move smoothly. A stiff or binding bolt might indicate a problem.
4. Reattaching the Forend and Stock
Once the barrel and bolt are secure, attach the forend and stock. These typically use screws or friction fit, depending on your specific Remington 870 model. Refer to your owner's manual for precise instructions.
5. Final Check
After completing assembly, perform a thorough function check. Cycle a few dummy rounds through the action to ensure everything operates smoothly. Pay close attention to the bolt's movement and the ejection of shells. If anything seems amiss, disassemble the firearm and carefully review each step again.
Common Remington 870 Assembly Issues & Troubleshooting
- Bolt not locking: Ensure the barrel is fully seated, and the bolt is correctly aligned within the receiver.
- Trigger group not fitting: Check for any bent parts or obstructions within the receiver.
- Loose parts: Always verify all pins and screws are tightly secured.
Resources and Further Information
Always consult your Remington 870 owner's manual for detailed instructions specific to your model. You can often find downloadable versions online through the Remington website or reputable firearms forums.
Visual aids such as exploded diagrams and videos are highly recommended. Searching "Remington 870 assembly diagram" on YouTube or Google Images will yield numerous helpful resources.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Disassembling and assembling firearms can be dangerous. Always prioritize safety, and if you're unsure about any step, consult a qualified gunsmith. Improper handling can lead to serious injury or death.