The Remington 870 shotgun is a legendary firearm, prized for its reliability, simplicity, and ease of maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional disassembly are crucial for keeping your 870 in top condition, ensuring its longevity and safe operation. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of the disassembly process, emphasizing safety precautions throughout. Always prioritize safety when handling firearms. Never point a firearm at anything you don't intend to shoot, and always treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
Before You Begin: Essential Safety Precautions
Before attempting any disassembly, observe these critical safety rules:
- Unloaded Weapon: Ensure the Remington 870 is completely unloaded. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube to confirm the absence of any cartridges.
- Safe Environment: Perform the disassembly in a clean, well-lit area, free from distractions.
- Proper Tools: Gather the necessary tools before starting. You'll primarily need a screwdriver (usually a standard Phillips head) and possibly a punch or dowel for certain parts.
- Reference Materials: Have this guide or a reliable Remington 870 manual readily available.
Step-by-Step Disassembly of the Remington 870
This guide details a field strip, suitable for regular cleaning and maintenance. More extensive disassembly may be required for deeper cleaning or repair, and should only be undertaken if you have the necessary experience and tools.
1. Removing the Stock
- Remove the Buttstock: Locate the buttstock retaining pin. Using a punch or appropriately sized dowel, carefully drive out the retaining pin. The pin may be slightly stubborn; gentle, even pressure is key. Once removed, the buttstock should slide off the receiver.
2. Removing the Forend
- Detach the Forend: After removing the buttstock, the forend can easily be pulled forward and removed from the barrel.
3. Separating the Barrel and Receiver
- Remove the Barrel: The Remington 870 barrel is held in place by a locking lug at the receiver. Tilt the barrel upward and pull it slightly away from the receiver. A slight twist may be necessary to break the barrel loose; avoid excessive force.
4. Removing the Bolt and Other Internal Components (Advanced)
- Removing the Bolt: This step involves removing the bolt and its associated components. It requires additional experience and attention to detail. Improper assembly of these parts can affect firearm functionality and safety. For the safety of the user and weapon, it is recommended to refer to the official Remington 870 owner's manual for detailed instructions on removing the bolt and other internal components.
Reassembly: A Reverse Process
Reassembly is the reverse of the disassembly process. Pay close attention to ensure all parts are correctly aligned and seated. If any parts seem difficult to fit, double-check their orientation before applying force.
Post-Disassembly Cleaning and Maintenance
Once disassembled, clean all components thoroughly using a suitable gun cleaning solvent and brush. Lubricate moving parts with a high-quality gun lubricant. Ensure that all parts are completely dry before reassembly.
Conclusion
Proper disassembly and maintenance of your Remington 870 are vital for its safe and reliable operation. Following these steps carefully and prioritizing safety will ensure the longevity of your firearm. Remember, if you are uncomfortable performing any of these steps, seek the assistance of a qualified gunsmith. This guide provides general information and should not replace the official Remington 870 owner's manual. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for complete and accurate details.
