Unveiling the Mechanics of the Remington 870 Pump Slide
Key Components
The Remington 870 shotgun. The name itself conjures images of reliable performance, a cornerstone of American firearm history. This pump-action powerhouse has found its place in the hands of law enforcement, hunters, and home defenders for generations. Central to the 870’s legendary reliability is its straightforward, yet robust design, and a key component of that design is the pump slide, often interchangeably called the forend. This article is your comprehensive guide to understanding the *Remington 870 Pump Slide*, delving into its inner workings, maintenance, and ways you can customize this essential part of your shotgun.
The core of the slide is, quite simply, the slide itself. Constructed from materials that provide durability and grip, it’s the part you hold onto to cycle the action. The slide needs to be comfortable and allow for a solid hold, especially in adverse conditions.
Attached to the slide are the *slide tubes*. These are the metal structures that secure the slide to the receiver of the shotgun, allowing the action bars to travel back and forth. These tubes are fundamental to the stability of the forend assembly, and their integrity is critical for the gun’s function.
The *action bars* connect the slide to the bolt within the receiver. As you pump the *Remington 870 Pump Slide*, these bars travel within the slide tubes, driving the bolt forward to chamber a round and locking the action, or driving it back to eject the spent shell casing.
The *slide lock assembly* is a crucial element that holds the slide in both the forward and rearward positions. This mechanism ensures the pump slide remains secure during both the firing cycle and when loading/unloading. It keeps the slide securely in place until deliberately moved.
Finally, the *forend nut*, or retaining nut, holds the entire slide assembly against the magazine tube. This nut must be properly tightened to prevent the pump slide from loosening and to ensure the shotgun functions correctly. It’s a seemingly small component but critical for the whole assembly’s performance.
Materials used in the construction of the *Remington 870 Pump Slide* vary. Traditionally, and commonly, the slide is made of wood or polymer. Wood offers a classic aesthetic and can be beautifully finished, while polymer is known for its durability, resistance to weather, and often includes integrated gripping surfaces. The slide tubes, action bars, and the internal components are typically made of hardened steel or other durable alloys to withstand the stresses of repeated use. The choice of materials directly influences the slide’s weight, feel, and overall longevity. The construction quality of the *Remington 870 Pump Slide* speaks directly to the reliability of the whole shotgun.
The Pump-Action Dance: How the Slide Works
The *Remington 870 Pump Slide* orchestrates a symphony of mechanical movements that make the shotgun ready to fire, and then reloads the action. This is achieved through the pump-action cycle.
When you pull the *Remington 870 Pump Slide* rearward, the action bars retract the bolt from the chamber. The bolt extracts the spent shell casing and pulls it out of the receiver. At the same time, this backward movement also cocks the shotgun’s hammer, readying it for the next shot. The spent casing is ejected through the ejection port.
As you then push the *Remington 870 Pump Slide* forward, the action bars push the bolt forward, stripping a fresh round from the magazine and chambering it. The bolt locks in place, and the gun is ready to fire.
The interaction between the slide, action bars, bolt, and receiver is a precisely engineered process. The pump action’s power derives from this synchronized interplay, ensuring each shell is effectively chambered, fired, and ejected.
Troubleshooting Common Slide Issues
Like any mechanical system, the *Remington 870 Pump Slide* can sometimes experience problems. Recognizing and addressing these issues promptly is essential to keeping your shotgun operational.
* **Slide Sticking:** A stuck slide can be a frustrating issue. The most common causes are the accumulation of debris or a lack of lubrication. Dust, dirt, or even old, hardened grease can create friction. A thorough cleaning and re-lubrication are often the solution. Inspect the action bars for any signs of damage or bending. These bars are the link from the pump slide to the bolt. Bending in the action bars is not common, but it is more than possible, and can bind up the action.
* **Failure to Cycle:** This can stem from several factors. Weak ammunition may not provide enough energy to cycle the action. Always use ammunition appropriate for the gauge and type of the shotgun. Check the action bars for damage or debris. The slide lock assembly might be malfunctioning, preventing the slide from properly engaging. Also, make sure the shotgun is clean. A clogged or otherwise dirty action can definitely cause cycling problems.
* **Loose Slide:** A loose *Remington 870 Pump Slide* can disrupt the gun’s function. The forend nut might have loosened over time, allowing the slide to wiggle. Make sure the nut is securely tightened. Worn or damaged action bars can contribute to this problem, as well, and will likely need replacement.
Addressing these issues promptly will keep your shotgun performing at its best.
Maintaining Your Remington 870 Pump Slide
Regular care is essential to the longevity and reliability of your *Remington 870 Pump Slide* and indeed the entire shotgun.
Regular cleaning is paramount. After each shooting session, or at least periodically, you should disassemble the slide. Remove the slide from the receiver and clean the components. Use a suitable solvent and a brush (nylon is generally recommended) to remove fouling and debris. Pay particular attention to the action bars and the internal components of the slide. Wipe the components dry and reassemble.
Lubrication is critical. After cleaning, apply a quality gun oil or grease to the action bars, slide tubes, and the areas where the slide interacts with the receiver. Use a moderate amount; over-lubrication can attract more debris, while under-lubrication can lead to increased friction and wear. The correct application of lubricant ensures a smooth and reliable cycling action.
Regular inspection should be part of your maintenance routine. Check the slide for any signs of wear, such as scoring or deformation on the action bars or slide. Examine the slide tubes to ensure they are secure and undamaged. Replace any worn parts promptly to prevent more extensive damage. Proactive replacement of worn parts is far less expensive and safer than dealing with failures when you need your shotgun.
Upgrading and Customizing Your Remington 870 Pump Slide
One of the appealing aspects of the *Remington 870 Pump Slide* is the ease with which it can be upgraded and customized.
There are numerous options for the slide itself. You can choose different forend styles, from the classic wood forends to modern polymer options.
Consider a different forend that includes Picatinny rails for mounting accessories. This allows for the addition of tactical lights, lasers, and other attachments. The right forend can customize the 870 to precisely meet your needs, and provide better ergonomics.
Also consider forends that have integrated pistol grips, enhancing your grip and control, particularly if you are using the shotgun for home defense or tactical applications.
Always be aware of local laws and regulations regarding modifications. Some states or localities may have restrictions on certain types of modifications.
Choosing a New or Replacement Pump Slide
If it is time for a new slide, consider the following before making a choice:
* **Material:** Will you use wood, for its classic appearance, or a polymer design? Polymer is generally considered to be a more durable and weatherproof choice.
* **Style:** Select a style that fits your intended use. Tactical users may choose a forend with rails, while hunters may prefer a traditional wood finish. Consider ergonomics.
* **Size and Fit:** Ensure the replacement is compatible with your *Remington 870*. Not all models or gauges share the same specifications, so pay attention to the dimensions, magazine tube, and gauge.
* **Budget:** Prices vary, so set a budget to avoid overspending.
You can buy replacement or upgrade slides from many retailers. Look at established online gun parts suppliers, as well as physical gun stores. Carefully review the product descriptions, read customer reviews, and compare prices. Make sure the retailer has a solid return policy.
Conclusion
The *Remington 870 Pump Slide* is a critical component of one of the most iconic shotguns in history. By understanding its mechanics, providing regular maintenance, and choosing the right upgrades, you can ensure your 870 continues to perform reliably for years to come. Properly maintaining the *Remington 870 Pump Slide* and following safe gun-handling practices will allow you to enjoy your firearm for many years, for hunting, personal defense, or target shooting.
