Hey there, gun enthusiasts! Ever wondered how to take apart your Remington 870? You know, that trusty shotgun that's a staple in homes and ranges across the country? Well, you're in luck! This guide is your ultimate companion for a safe and successful Remington 870 disassembly. We'll walk you through each step, making sure you understand everything. It's not as scary as it looks, and with a bit of patience, you'll be stripping down your 870 like a pro. This guide is for everyone from beginners to seasoned shooters. Let's get started, shall we?

Why Disassemble Your Remington 870?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of how to take apart a Remington 870, let's chat about why you'd even want to do it. The reasons are pretty straightforward, but knowing them helps appreciate the process. First and foremost, cleaning. Regular cleaning is essential to keep your shotgun functioning smoothly and reliably. Dirt, gunpowder residue, and other debris can build up over time, causing malfunctions and reducing the lifespan of your firearm. Disassembling your 870 allows you to access all the critical components, such as the barrel, bolt, and action bars, making thorough cleaning possible. Think of it as giving your shotgun a spa day, ensuring it stays in tip-top shape. Additionally, disassembly is vital for maintenance and inspection. Taking your 870 apart lets you inspect all the parts for wear and tear, damage, or potential issues. You can spot things like broken springs, worn-out parts, or signs of corrosion early on, preventing more significant problems down the line. Catching these things early can save you money on repairs and, more importantly, ensure your safety when you're out shooting. Another reason to learn how to disassemble your Remington 870 is for repairs and modifications. If something goes wrong, or if you decide to upgrade a part, knowing how to take it apart is non-negotiable. Whether replacing a broken part or installing a new accessory, you'll need to know the proper disassembly procedures to get the job done. It's like knowing how to change a tire on your car; it's a valuable skill. Ultimately, learning to disassemble your Remington 870 empowers you to maintain, repair, and customize your shotgun, ensuring it remains a reliable and enjoyable tool for years. So, are you ready to become a Remington 870 disassembly expert? Let's get into the step-by-step guide.

Safety First!

Before we do anything else, let's talk about safety. It's the most crucial aspect of handling any firearm, and it's especially important when disassembling one. Here's what you need to do before we start:

• Verify the Firearm is Unloaded: This is the most crucial step. Always, always check that the chamber and magazine are empty. Remove the magazine, open the action, and physically inspect the chamber to ensure there are no rounds present. You can't be too safe.
• Point the Muzzle in a Safe Direction: Make sure the muzzle is always pointed in a direction where an accidental discharge would cause no harm. The best practice is to point it in a safe direction, such as a safe area or the ground.
• Clear the Area: Make sure you have a clean and well-lit workspace. Remove any distractions and ensure you have enough room to work comfortably.
• Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from any debris that might fly loose during disassembly.
• Read the Manual: If you have it, read the manufacturer's manual. It provides specific instructions and safety precautions for your model.

Remember, your safety and the safety of those around you are the top priority. Now that you've covered these steps, you're ready to proceed with confidence.

Tools You'll Need

Okay, before you start taking apart your Remington 870, let's gather your tools. Having the right tools makes the process much easier and ensures you don't damage any parts. Here's what you'll need:

• A Screwdriver: A flathead screwdriver is essential. You'll need it to remove various screws throughout the process. Make sure the screwdriver fits snugly into the screw heads to avoid stripping them.
• A Punch and Hammer: A small punch set and a light hammer will be needed to drive out pins. A roll pin punch is helpful for the trigger group pins.
• Cleaning Rod and Patches: For cleaning the barrel. You can't disassemble without cleaning!
• Gun Cleaning Solvent: For cleaning the gun parts.
• Gun Oil or Lubricant: For lubricating the moving parts after cleaning.
• A Soft Surface or Gun Mat: This protects your firearm from scratches while you work. A clean towel or a gun-specific mat works well.
• A Parts Tray: This is very important. To keep your screws and other small parts organized and to prevent them from getting lost.
• Optional Tools: Depending on the specific disassembly you're doing, you might need a few more things, such as needle-nose pliers and a small brush for cleaning. Always double-check your tools.

Having the right tools is half the battle won. With everything in place, you're ready to start the disassembly process.

Remington 870 Disassembly Steps

Alright, let's get into the meat and potatoes of this guide: the Remington 870 disassembly steps. Remember, take your time, work methodically, and refer to your manual if you have any questions. We'll break down the process step-by-step to make it as easy as possible. Let's do this!

Step 1: Remove the Barrel

1. Ensure the Firearm is Unloaded: Seriously, double-check! Make sure the chamber and magazine are completely empty.
2. Unscrew the Magazine Cap: Unscrew the magazine cap at the front of the magazine tube. It's usually a knurled cap. You might need to use a tool to loosen it if it's tight. The barrel is secured with the magazine cap.
3. Remove the Barrel: Once the magazine cap is off, carefully pull the barrel forward and away from the receiver. It should slide out without too much force.

Step 2: Disassemble the Forend and Action Bars

1. Remove the Forend: Slide the forend rearward, off the magazine tube.
2. Separate the Action Bars: The action bars are connected to the bolt. These should be removed carefully.

Step 3: Remove the Bolt

1. Remove the Bolt Carrier: With the barrel and forend removed, the bolt is ready to be removed from the receiver.
2. Pull the Bolt Out: Lift the bolt and remove it from the receiver. Note the orientation of the bolt for reassembly.

Step 4: Disassemble the Trigger Group

1. Remove the Trigger Pin(s): Use a punch and hammer to drive out the trigger group pins. These pins hold the trigger group in place. Support the receiver while tapping the pins out to prevent damage. Be careful not to lose the springs and small parts.
2. Remove the Trigger Group: Once the pins are out, the trigger group should come out easily. Inspect the trigger group parts.

Step 5: Cleaning and Reassembly

1. Cleaning the Parts: Use gun cleaning solvent and a brush to clean all the parts thoroughly. Pay attention to the barrel, bolt, and trigger group. Make sure all the parts are free of dirt and debris.
2. Lubrication: Apply gun oil or a lubricant to all moving parts after cleaning. This will help reduce friction and prevent corrosion.
3. Reassembly: Reassemble your Remington 870 by reversing the disassembly steps. Make sure everything goes back in the correct order and orientation. Double-check that all pins are securely in place.
4. Function Test: After reassembly, perform a function test. Cycle the action, ensure the safety works, and that the trigger functions correctly.

Step 6: Advanced Disassembly (Optional)

For more in-depth cleaning or repairs, you might need to disassemble further. This includes removing the bolt assembly, and individual trigger group parts, and removing the magazine tube. However, these steps require more advanced techniques and tools. Proceed with caution and refer to the specific guides or manuals for these tasks.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even if you're careful, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are some troubleshooting tips for common problems you might encounter during the Remington 870 disassembly and reassembly process.

• Stuck Parts: If a part seems stuck, don't force it. Make sure you've removed all the necessary screws and pins. Sometimes, a bit of penetrating oil can help loosen things up. If it still doesn't budge, consult a professional or a more detailed guide.
• Lost Springs or Parts: It's easy to misplace small parts during disassembly. Work in a well-lit area, and use a parts tray to keep everything organized. If you lose a part, try to find a replacement. A missing part can cause malfunctions.
• Action Issues: If the action won't cycle smoothly after reassembly, double-check that all parts are correctly installed. Ensure the action bars are aligned and that the bolt is properly seated. Sometimes, a good cleaning and lubrication can resolve the issue.
• Trigger Issues: If the trigger doesn't function correctly, check the trigger group for proper installation. Ensure the springs are correctly positioned. Sometimes, trigger issues are caused by dirt or debris in the trigger group.

Conclusion: You Did It!

That's it, folks! You've successfully disassembled your Remington 870! Give yourself a pat on the back; it's a valuable skill. Remember that practice makes perfect, and the more you disassemble and reassemble your shotgun, the more comfortable you'll become. Always prioritize safety, take your time, and enjoy the process. Now go out there and keep your Remington 870 running in top shape! And remember, if you ever feel unsure about any step, don't hesitate to consult a professional gunsmith. Happy shooting!