Taking apart a Remington 870 requires respect for the tool and an understanding of its robust design. This legendary shotgun has served everyone from law enforcement to waterfowl hunters for generations, and knowing how to disassemble it properly is fundamental to responsible ownership. Whether you are cleaning after a day at the range or performing a detailed inspection, following the correct procedure ensures the longevity and safe operation of your firearm.
Understanding the Purpose of Disassembly
The primary reason to disassemble a Remington 870 beyond the field-strip is to access the internal components for a deep clean or to replace worn parts. Unlike some simpler firearms, the 870’s action bar and recoil spring system require removal from the receiver to service effectively. This process allows you to inspect the bolt, clean gas rings thoroughly, and ensure that hardened steel surfaces remain free of debris that could affect reliability.
Safety Protocols You Must Follow
Before touching any screws or levers, you must ensure the shotgun is completely unloaded. Remove the magazine tube and verify the chamber visually and physically to confirm no shell is present. Keep the action open throughout the entire process, and never assume a firearm is safe without positive verification. Treat the weapon as if it is loaded until every step of the verification process is complete.
Step One: The Field Strip
The field strip is the critical first step that separates the barrel and fore-end from the action. You will locate the slide release latch on the left side of the receiver; pressing this while lifting the fore-end allows the barrel unit to separate smoothly. This part of the process requires no tools and should be done gently to avoid damaging the barrel lug or the receiver ears.
Step Two: Removing the Action Assembly
With the barrel removed, you pivot the fore-end downward to expose the action bar nut located at the rear of the magazine tube. Using the appropriate wrench, you loosen this nut carefully, allowing the action assembly to slide forward out of the receiver. This reveals the recoil spring and guide rod, which are under significant tension and must be handled with caution to prevent the spring from launching across the room.
Tools and Workspace Preparation
Performing this task efficiently requires a specific set of tools to avoid stripping the Allen screws or damaging the blued finish. You should gather a quality set of screwdrivers, a punch for ejector pins, and a small socket set that fits the action bar nut. A clean, well-lit bench with a soft mat is ideal for keeping small parts organized and preventing scratches on the firearm’s surface.
Reassembly and Function Checks
Once the cleaning or inspection is complete, reassembly begins with the recoil spring and guide rod back into the magazine tube. It is vital to ensure the spring is seated correctly without twisting before inserting the action assembly. Tightening the action bar nut securely restores the structural integrity of the action, and a function check—without ammunition—verifies that the trigger pull and safety mechanism operate as intended.
