How to Clean a Remington 870: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Remington 870 is a popular pump-action shotgun known for its reliability and durability. To ensure it continues to perform well, regular cleaning is essential. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to clean a Remington 870, from disassembling to reassembling and testing.
Before You Start
Before you begin cleaning your Remington 870, make sure you have the following:
- A clean and well-lit work surface
- A cloth or rag
- A brush (e.g., a toothbrush or a small-bristled brush)
- A cleaning rod and patch set
- A bore brush
- A solvent (e.g., Hoppes #9 or Break-Free CLP)
- A lube (e.g., Remington 870-specific lubricant or silicone spray)
- A bore light or flashlight
Step 1: Disassemble the Shotgun
To start cleaning your Remington 870, you’ll need to disassemble it. Follow these steps:
| Part | Action |
|---|---|
| Magazine tube | Remove by sliding it out of the receiver |
| Trigger group | Remove by sliding it out of the receiver |
| Fore-end | Remove by sliding it off the barrel |
| Stock | Remove by unscrewing the screws |
Step 2: Remove the Remington 870’s Inner Components
Once you have the shotgun disassembled, you’ll need to remove the inner components:
| Component | Action |
|---|---|
| Piston | Remove by sliding it out of the receiver |
| C-clip | Remove by pulling it out of the receiver |
| Hammer and sear | Remove by sliding them out of the receiver |
| Trigger and trigger spring | Remove by sliding them out of the receiver |
Step 3: Clean the Exterior
Use a cloth or rag to wipe down the exterior of the shotgun, paying attention to any areas with visible dirt or grime. Use a mild detergent and water if necessary, but avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Step 4: Clean the Barrel and Choke
Use a bore brush to clean the inside of the barrel, paying attention to the choke and any areas with visible dirt or grime. Use a solvent to loosen any stubborn debris.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Apply solvent | Apply a small amount of solvent to the bore brush |
| Brush the barrel | Run the bore brush through the barrel, paying attention to the choke |
| Remove debris | Use a cleaning patch to remove any loosened debris |
Step 5: Clean the Action and Trigger Group
Use a brush (e.g., a toothbrush or a small-bristled brush) to clean the action and trigger group. Use a solvent to loosen any stubborn debris.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Apply solvent | Apply a small amount of solvent to the brush |
| Brush the action | Run the brush through the action, paying attention to any areas with visible dirt or grime |
| Remove debris | Use a cleaning patch to remove any loosened debris |
Step 6: Reassemble the Shotgun
Once you’ve cleaned all the parts, it’s time to reassemble the shotgun:
| Part | Action |
|---|---|
| Stock | Screw it back onto the receiver |
| Fore-end | Slide it back onto the barrel |
| Trigger group | Slide it back into the receiver |
| Magazine tube | Slide it back into the receiver |
| Piston | Slide it back into the receiver |
| C-clip | Slide it back into the receiver |
| Hammer and sear | Slide them back into the receiver |
| Trigger and trigger spring | Slide them back into the receiver |
Step 7: Test the Shotgun
Once you’ve reassembled the shotgun, it’s time to test it. C cycle the action several times to ensure everything is working smoothly. If everything feels normal, you’re done!
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when cleaning your Remington 870:
- Always use a bore light or flashlight to inspect the barrel and choke for any remaining debris.
- Use a lube to keep the moving parts running smoothly.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the shotgun’s finish or harm its internal components.
- Clean your Remington 870 regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Consider using a cleaning kit specifically designed for the Remington 870, as it will typically include all the necessary parts and tools.
In conclusion, cleaning your Remington 870 is a relatively straightforward process that requires some patience and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to keep your shotgun in top condition and ensure it continues to perform well. Remember to always use a bore light or flashlight to inspect the barrel and choke for any remaining debris, and to use a lube to keep the moving parts running smoothly. With regular cleaning and maintenance, your Remington 870 will be ready for action whenever you need it.
