The Remington 870 shotgun is a legendary firearm known for its reliability and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a new owner, understanding how to properly field strip your 870 is crucial for cleaning, maintenance, and safe storage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can do it safely and efficiently.
Important Safety Precautions:
- Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Before beginning any disassembly, visually inspect the firearm and ensure the chamber is empty. Point the muzzle in a safe direction at all times.
- Wear safety glasses. Small parts can spring out unexpectedly during disassembly.
- Work in a clean, well-lit area. This will help prevent lost parts and ensure you can see what you're doing clearly.
- Consult your owner's manual. This guide provides general instructions, but your specific model may have slight variations.
Step-by-Step Disassembly of a Remington 870:
Step 1: Unloading the Remington 870
This is the most crucial step. Follow these steps meticulously:
- Point the muzzle in a safe direction. This is paramount.
- Open the action. This usually involves pulling the charging handle rearward and then releasing it.
- Visually inspect the chamber. Make sure it's empty.
- Work the action several times. This ensures that no shells are stuck in the magazine tube.
- Remove the magazine tube cap (if applicable). Check the tube to confirm it's empty.
Step 2: Removing the Forend
- Push the forend button release. This button is usually located on the front of the trigger guard.
- Slide the forend off the receiver. It should slide forward and off easily.
Step 3: Removing the Barrel
- Rotate the barrel latch. This latch is located on the bottom of the receiver, near the front. Rotate it 90 degrees (usually counter-clockwise).
- Lift the barrel upward and off the receiver. It might require a slight amount of force, but avoid using excessive pressure.
Step 4: Removing the Bolt and Bolt Carrier
- Pull the bolt carrier straight to the rear. Remove it from the receiver.
- Separate the bolt from the bolt carrier. The bolt will slide out of the carrier once the carrier is removed from the receiver.
Step 5: Disassembly for Deep Cleaning (Optional)
For more thorough cleaning, you can further disassemble components like the bolt and trigger group. Refer to a detailed exploded parts diagram for your specific Remington 870 model to guide this process. This advanced disassembly is best left to experienced gunsmiths or individuals with extensive familiarity with firearms. Improper disassembly can damage the firearm.
Reassembly:
Reassembly is generally the reverse of disassembly. Again, refer to your owner's manual and diagrams to ensure proper reassembly. Pay attention to the orientation of parts to ensure correct function.
Maintaining Your Remington 870
Regular cleaning and lubrication are vital to the longevity of your Remington 870. Use a suitable gun cleaning kit and follow manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning solvents and lubricants.
Conclusion
Disassembling your Remington 870 is a straightforward process, but it’s crucial to prioritize safety throughout. By following these steps carefully and understanding the importance of safety precautions, you can confidently maintain and care for your firearm. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions and diagrams tailored to your model. If you are unsure about any step, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith.
