Maintaining your Remington 870 shotgun is crucial for its longevity, reliability, and safe operation. Regular cleaning prevents malfunctions, extends the life of your firearm, and ensures accuracy. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of thoroughly cleaning your Remington 870, covering everything from disassembly to reassembly. We'll focus on safety and detail to make the process clear and easy to follow, even for novice gun owners.
Safety First: Essential Precautions Before Cleaning
Before you even think about disassembling your Remington 870, always prioritize safety. These steps are paramount:
- Unloaded Weapon: Double, then triple-check that your shotgun is completely unloaded. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube.
- Safe Environment: Choose a clean, well-lit workspace free from distractions. Have a soft surface (like a clean towel) to prevent scratches.
- Protective Gear: Consider wearing shooting glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands.
- Proper Tools: Gather the necessary cleaning supplies (detailed below) before you begin.
Tools and Materials You'll Need:
- Remington 870 Shotgun Cleaning Kit: A dedicated kit often includes brushes, patches, jags, and a cleaning rod specifically sized for the 870's bore. These kits make cleaning easier.
- Solvent: Choose a high-quality gun cleaning solvent designed for removing powder residue, lead, and other fouling.
- Gun Oil: A good quality gun oil is essential for lubricating moving parts and preventing rust. Avoid using WD-40 or other non-gun-specific lubricants.
- Patches: Use patches appropriate for your shotgun's gauge (12-gauge for most Remington 870s). Cotton patches are generally preferred.
- Cleaning Rod: Ensure the rod is the correct length and diameter to avoid damaging the bore.
- Bore Brush: A bore brush with appropriate bristles for your shotgun's gauge is vital for scrubbing the barrel clean.
- Chamber Brush: This brush cleans the chamber area effectively.
- Toothbrush or Small Brush: Useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- Rags or Paper Towels: For wiping down parts and cleaning up spills.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
1. Disassembly:
- Remove the Forend: Most Remington 870s have a simple push-button release mechanism located on the forend. Push the button and slide the forend off the receiver.
- Eject the Magazine Tube: The magazine tube should now be easily removable; refer to your owner's manual if you are unsure. Ensure that it's completely empty.
- Remove the Bolt: The bolt assembly varies slightly depending on the 870 model; consult your owner's manual for detailed instructions. Generally, this involves releasing a latch or button.
- Separate Components: Once disassembled, lay out the components on your work surface in an organized manner. This makes reassembly easier.
2. Cleaning the Barrel:
- Apply Solvent: Pour a small amount of solvent onto a patch attached to the cleaning rod.
- Run the Patch Through: Carefully push the patch through the barrel from the breech (rear) end to the muzzle (front).
- Repeat: Repeat this process multiple times until the patches come out relatively clean.
- Use the Bore Brush: After several solvent patches, run the bore brush through the barrel several times to loosen stubborn residue.
- Final Patches: Finish by running several more clean, solvent-saturated patches through the barrel until the patches remain clean.
3. Cleaning Other Components:
- Receiver and Bolt: Use a toothbrush or small brush and solvent to clean these parts thoroughly. Pay attention to any areas with visible residue.
- Magazine Tube: Clean the inside of the magazine tube with a cleaning rod and patches.
- Forend and Stock: Wipe down the wood or synthetic stock and forend with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
4. Lubrication:
- Apply Gun Oil: Once all parts are clean and dry, apply a small amount of gun oil to the moving parts of the bolt, trigger mechanism, and any other areas that require lubrication. Don't over-oil.
5. Reassembly:
- Careful Reassembly: Reverse the disassembly steps to reassemble your Remington 870. Ensure all parts are correctly aligned and securely in place.
Maintenance Tips for Your Remington 870:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your shotgun after every shooting session.
- Storage: Store your shotgun in a dry, cool place. Consider using a gun case or sock to protect it from dust and moisture.
- Professional Cleaning: For particularly stubborn fouling or if you are uncomfortable disassembling your shotgun, consider taking it to a qualified gunsmith.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of cleaning your Remington 870 shotgun. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult your owner's manual for specific instructions related to your model. Consistent cleaning and proper maintenance will ensure your Remington 870 performs reliably for years to come.
