The Remington 870 is a popular and reliable shotgun, but proper disassembly and reassembly require careful attention to detail and safety. This guide provides a step-by-step process for safely taking apart your Remington 870. Always prioritize safety. Before beginning any disassembly, ensure the firearm is unloaded and that you have visually inspected the chamber and magazine tube to confirm this.
Tools You'll Need
Before you start, gather the following tools:
- A sturdy work surface: A clean, well-lit area free from distractions is crucial.
- A gun cleaning mat or towel: This will protect your firearm and provide a clean workspace.
- A punch or dowel (optional): A punch can help with removing stubborn pins. A small wooden dowel can also be used.
- A screwdriver (if applicable): Depending on the model and modifications, you might need a screwdriver.
Step-by-Step Disassembly Guide
Step 1: Unload the Remington 870
This is the most critical step. Open the action, visually inspect the chamber, and remove any shells. Then, cycle the action several times to ensure no rounds remain in the magazine tube.
Step 2: Remove the Forend
Push the forend release button (typically located on the underside of the receiver near the trigger guard) and slide the forend towards the muzzle. The forend should slide off easily.
Step 3: Remove the Barrel
- Rotate the barrel: Locate the barrel latch located on the receiver. Push this latch to unlock the barrel.
- Lift the barrel: After pushing the barrel latch, carefully lift the barrel from the receiver.
Step 4: Removing the Bolt (Optional Disassembly)
For more in-depth cleaning, you may need to remove the bolt. This step is optional depending on your cleaning needs.
- Press the bolt release button: With the barrel removed, you will likely find a bolt release button located on the receiver (location may vary slightly depending on model). Press this button to release the bolt. The bolt should slide out rearward.
- Remove the bolt components (if needed): Depending on how thoroughly you're cleaning, you might want to further disassemble the bolt into its individual components (e.g., bolt handle, bolt body, etc.). This typically involves removing pins, so proceed cautiously and refer to detailed diagrams in your owner’s manual.
Step 5: Reassembly
Reassembly is essentially the reverse of disassembly. Always double-check your work at each step to ensure everything is correctly aligned and secure. Consult your owner’s manual for detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your model.
Important Safety Reminders
- Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. This is paramount to safe gun handling.
- Point the muzzle in a safe direction. Never point the firearm at yourself or anything you don't intend to shoot.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. This is a fundamental rule of firearm safety.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Ensure that no one is in the line of fire before you begin disassembly or reassembly.
- Consult your owner's manual: This guide provides general instructions, but your specific Remington 870 model might have minor variations. Always refer to the owner's manual for detailed and model-specific instructions.
- If unsure, seek professional help: If you are uncomfortable with any step of this process, consult a qualified gunsmith.
This detailed guide helps you safely disassemble your Remington 870. However, always prioritize safety and consult your firearm's manual for precise instructions specific to your model. Safe gun handling is crucial, and proper maintenance contributes significantly to firearm longevity.
