Maintaining a Remington 1100 demands consistent attention to detail, and understanding how to clean remington 1100 components properly ensures reliable function and longevity. This process is not merely about wiping down metal; it involves a systematic approach that addresses carbon buildup, residual powder, and environmental contaminants. A well-executed cleaning routine protects your investment and preserves the accuracy that makes this shotgun a favorite among shooters.
Why Proper Maintenance Matters
Neglecting the interior assembly of a 1100 can lead to a variety of operational failures, from misfeeds to catastrophic malfunctions. Corrosive residues left behind after firing can rapidly degrade the chrome plating inside the barrel and bolt carrier, leading to expensive repairs. By learning how to clean remington 1100 systems correctly, you mitigate these risks and ensure the action cycles smoothly round after round. Consistent maintenance directly extends the life of the firearm and maintains its value on the secondary market.
Disassembly for Deep Cleaning
Before you begin, ensure the firearm is completely unloaded and the action is open. The first step in learning how to clean remington 1100 internals involves removing the fore-end and barrel. Utilize the factory-installed barrel locking lug to separate the barrel from the receiver, taking care not to scratch the crown. Once the barrel is removed, you can proceed to extract the bolt carrier group, which is the heart of the semi-automatic mechanism. Lay out all components on a clean mat so that you can track the sequence of reassembly easily.
Critical Internal Components
Focus your attention on the bolt, firing pin, and extractor during the cleaning process. Carbon buildup on the firing pin can cause light primer strikes, while residue on the extractor can lead to casing ejection failures. When you clean remington 1100 bolt assemblies, use a nylon brush and solvent to break down carbon without damaging the metal surfaces. Pay special attention to the gas piston system, as fouling here can drastically reduce the shotgun's semi-automatic cycling efficiency.
The Cleaning Process Step-by-Step
Apply a quality solvent to a bore brush and run it through the barrel from breech to muzzle. Follow this with patches soaked in solvent until they emerge clean, indicating that the bore is free of fouling. Switch to a smaller brush to scrub the chamber and the forcing cone, where spent casings linger before extraction. While the solvent breaks down the carbon, use cotton patches to wipe down the interior of the receiver and the trigger assembly, removing grime without causing abrasion.
Lubrication Best Practices
Over-lubrication is a common mistake when attempting to clean remington 1100 actions, as excess oil attracts more dust and grit. Once the components are free of solvent, apply a light film of gun oil to the rails of the bolt carrier and the contact points of the trigger housing. The goal is to reduce friction, not to create a slippery mess that collects debris. Wipe off any excess oil with a clean patch to ensure only the necessary metal surfaces are protected.
Reassembly and Function Checking
After the barrel and fore-end are dry, reverse the disassembly steps carefully. Ensure the locking lug aligns perfectly with the receiver to avoid cross-threading, which can cause damage. Before closing the action fully, cycle the slide several times to verify that the mechanism moves freely. This check is vital to confirm that you have removed all obstructions and that the return spring is functioning correctly.
Exterior Care and Storage
The exterior cleaning of a Remington 1100 involves wiping down the stock or grip with a damp cloth to remove sweat and oils. For synthetic stocks, a mild detergent works well, while wooden stocks may require specific oils to prevent drying and cracking. Once the exterior is clean and dry, store the shotgun in a cool, dry place with the action open if the humidity is high. Proper storage ensures that your efforts in learning how to clean remington 1100 systems remain effective between range trips.
