How to Load a Remington 870: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Remington 870 is a popular pump-action shotgun known for its reliability, durability, and ease of use. However, loading the Remington 870 can be a bit tricky for new users. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to load a Remington 870, highlighting the key points and tips to ensure safe and efficient loading.
Before You Start
Before loading your Remington 870, make sure you have the following:
- A loaded magazine tube (if your shotgun comes with one)
- A box of shotgun shells
- A shell elevator (optional but recommended)
Step 1: Open the Action
To load the Remington 870, you need to open the action. To do this:
- Locate the bolt release lever on the top of the receiver.
- Pull the lever down to release the bolt.
- The action will now be open, allowing you to access the chamber and magazine tube.
Step 2: Load the Chamber
The first step in loading the Remington 870 is to load the chamber. To do this:
- Take a shotgun shell and insert it into the chamber, making sure it is seated properly.
- Make sure the shell is aligned with the chamber and the rim is facing the rear of the shotgun.
- Close the bolt to chamber the shell.
Step 3: Load the Magazine Tube
Once the chamber is loaded, it’s time to load the magazine tube. To do this:
- Take a shotgun shell and insert it into the magazine tube, making sure it is seated properly.
- Continue loading shells into the magazine tube until it is full or until you reach the desired number of shells.
- Make sure the shells are loaded in a consistent manner, with the rims facing the rear of the shotgun.
Step 4: Close the Action
Once the magazine tube is loaded, it’s time to close the action. To do this:
- Pull the bolt release lever up to close the bolt.
- The action will now be closed, and the shotgun is ready to fire.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when loading your Remington 870:
- Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
- Make sure the shotgun is pointed in a safe direction at all times.
- Use a shell elevator to load the magazine tube, especially if you are loading multiple shells at once.
- Keep the magazine tube loaded to the recommended capacity to ensure reliable feeding.
- Clean and maintain your Remington 870 regularly to ensure optimal performance.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some common issues that may arise when loading your Remington 870 and how to troubleshoot them:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Shell not chambering | Check that the shell is properly seated in the chamber and that the bolt is fully closed. |
| Shell not feeding from the magazine tube | Check that the shells are loaded in a consistent manner and that the magazine tube is not obstructed. |
| Shotgun not firing | Check that the chamber is loaded and that the bolt is fully closed. |
Conclusion
Loading a Remington 870 may seem intimidating at first, but with practice and patience, it becomes second nature. By following the steps outlined in this article and keeping the tips and tricks in mind, you’ll be able to load your Remington 870 safely and efficiently. Remember to always follow proper safety protocols and to clean and maintain your shotgun regularly to ensure optimal performance.
