Maintaining your Remington 870 shotgun is crucial for its longevity, reliability, and, most importantly, your safety. A well-maintained firearm functions flawlessly and reduces the risk of malfunctions during critical moments. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the proper cleaning process, ensuring your Remington 870 stays in top condition.
Safety First: Handling Your Remington 870
Before you even think about cleaning, always prioritize safety. Follow these essential steps:
- Unload the shotgun completely: Visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube to ensure no cartridges remain.
- Point the muzzle in a safe direction: This is paramount. Always point the gun in a direction where a misfire will not cause harm.
- Engage the safety: Double-check that the safety is engaged.
Gathering Your Cleaning Supplies
You'll need the following to effectively clean your Remington 870:
- Shotgun cleaning rod: Choose a rod appropriate for your shotgun's gauge. Avoid using a rod that's too thin or too thick.
- Cleaning patches: Use patches that fit snugly on the cleaning rod. These are often made of cotton or other absorbent materials.
- Bore brush: Select a bore brush that matches your shotgun's gauge. This helps scrub away fouling effectively.
- Gun cleaning solvent: A high-quality solvent will help dissolve powder residue, carbon buildup, and other contaminants.
- Gun oil: A light gun oil will help lubricate moving parts and prevent rust.
- Cotton swabs: These are useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- A cleaning mat or towel: This protects your work surface and keeps everything organized.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Now, let's dive into the cleaning process itself:
1. Field Stripping Your Remington 870
This involves separating the major components for easier cleaning. Consult your Remington 870 owner's manual for detailed instructions on field stripping. Improper disassembly can damage your shotgun.
2. Cleaning the Barrel
This is the most crucial step.
- Attach the bore brush to the cleaning rod: Securely fasten the brush.
- Apply gun solvent to the brush: Liberally saturate the brush with solvent.
- Run the brush through the barrel: Push the brush from the breech (rear) to the muzzle (front) several times. Repeat this process multiple times, using fresh solvent as needed.
- Follow with cleaning patches: After brushing, use clean patches attached to the rod to remove the solvent and fouling. Continue running patches through the barrel until they come out clean.
3. Cleaning the Chamber and Magazine Tube
- Clean the chamber: Use a clean patch and solvent to thoroughly clean the chamber.
- Clean the magazine tube: Use a magazine tube brush or patches on a cleaning rod to remove any build-up.
4. Cleaning the Receiver and Other Components
- Remove excess solvent and dirt: Use cotton swabs and patches to carefully clean the receiver and any other exposed metal components.
- Apply gun oil: After cleaning, lightly oil all moving parts. Avoid over-oiling, as excess oil can attract dirt and grime.
5. Reassembly
Carefully reassemble your Remington 870 following the steps outlined in your owner's manual. Ensure all parts are properly seated and functioning correctly.
Frequency of Cleaning
The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use your shotgun. After each shooting session, a thorough cleaning is recommended. If you only shoot occasionally, cleaning every few months is usually sufficient.
Beyond Basic Cleaning
Periodically, consider more in-depth cleaning, including removing any stubborn carbon buildup or rust. This might involve using more specialized tools or solvents.
Conclusion
Properly cleaning your Remington 870 shotgun is essential for maintaining its performance and ensuring your safety. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can keep your firearm in optimal condition for years to come. Remember to always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
