Introduction
The Remington 870. It’s a name synonymous with reliability, power, and versatility in the world of shotguns. A favorite of law enforcement, hunters, and home defenders alike, this pump-action firearm has earned its reputation through decades of dependable service. Owning an 870 means having a tool built for the job, capable of adapting to a wide range of needs. But like any well-crafted machine, the Remington 870 requires understanding, care, and occasionally, reassembly.
This article serves as your dedicated guide to the art of putting the Remington 870 back together. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to the world of firearms, a proper understanding of the assembly process is essential. It is important for ensuring the safe and reliable function of your shotgun. This guide will walk you through each crucial step, making the reassembly of your Remington 870 less of a mystery and more of an achievable goal. This guide aims to demystify the process, breaking it down into easily understood components. The use of a clear and accurate assembly diagram is central to this process, and will be referenced throughout.
Before diving in, the most critical aspect to reiterate is safety. No instruction, no matter how well-written, is a substitute for responsible gun handling. Always prioritize safety and consult a qualified gunsmith if you ever have any doubts or if the process feels too complex.
Understanding the Remington 870: A Quick Look
Before we get started, a basic understanding of the Remington 870’s key components is beneficial. This familiarity will aid in the comprehension of the assembly steps.
The heart of the shotgun is the *receiver*, the main housing that holds everything together. The *barrel* is attached to the receiver, and it’s where the shot travels. The *magazine tube*, located beneath the barrel, stores the shells before they are chambered. The *bolt* is a critical part, responsible for locking the breech and extracting spent shells. The *pump* (or fore-end) is what you slide back and forth to chamber rounds and eject spent casings. The *trigger group* houses the trigger, sear, and other mechanisms involved in firing the shotgun. Finally, the *stock* provides a point of contact and a comfortable grip.
Different versions of the Remington 870 exist, like the Express, Wingmaster, and Police models. However, the core assembly process, and therefore the *Remington 870 Assembly Diagram* we will use as a model, remains largely consistent across the various models.
Safety First: Your Responsibilities
Safety is not just a recommendation; it’s paramount. The following safety precautions *must* be adhered to throughout the entire reassembly process:
Unload It First
Never assume that your Remington 870 is unloaded. Before you begin any disassembly or assembly, *always* check the chamber and magazine. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine to confirm that no ammunition remains.
Point in a Safe Direction
Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. This means the direction where a negligent discharge would cause the least harm. A safe direction is typically downrange in a secure shooting environment.
Eye Protection
Always wear appropriate safety glasses to protect your eyes from potential debris, springs, or other hazards.
Clean Workspace
Work in a well-lit and organized workspace. This prevents the loss of small parts. Clutter increases the risk of losing parts, which can be frustrating and potentially dangerous.
Never Touch the Trigger
Until you’re absolutely ready to fire the shotgun, keep your finger off the trigger.
Be Careful Around Ammunition
If you are working with ammunition nearby, ensure it is stored safely away from your work area.
Verify Function
Once reassembly is complete, thoroughly test the firearm’s functions in a safe environment.
These precautions are not exhaustive, but they establish a foundation for a safe experience. Remember, responsible gun ownership is a continuous commitment.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Having the right tools and materials prepared beforehand makes the assembly process significantly smoother. Gather these items before you begin.
- Punch Set: A punch set containing various sizes of punches is essential. You will need them to drive out pins during disassembly and reassembly.
- Hammer: A small hammer, used gently in conjunction with the punch set.
- Screwdrivers: Ensure you have screwdrivers that match the screws on your 870. Philips head and flathead screwdrivers are common.
- Cleaning Supplies: If cleaning your shotgun at the same time, have cleaning rods, patches, solvent, and lubricant ready.
- Vice (Optional): A vice can be very helpful to secure the receiver during certain steps, but is not always necessary.
- Gun Lubricant: A quality gun lubricant is required to lubricate moving parts and prevent friction and wear.
- Parts Tray or Container: Essential for keeping track of all those small components.
Putting It Back Together: Following Your Assembly Diagram
This section forms the core of our guide. You must consult a reliable *Remington 870 Assembly Diagram* for specific visual references. The diagram will act as your primary guide, and all the steps below will correlate to parts indicated in your diagram. Be sure to acquire and study your chosen diagram carefully before you begin.
Inserting the Barrel
Begin by inserting the barrel into the receiver. Ensure the barrel is fully seated and aligned correctly. The barrel should fit snugly, but not be forced. Some barrels can be rotated slightly. If the barrel doesn’t slide in smoothly, double-check its alignment with the receiver. Once the barrel is in place, you might have to secure it with a barrel retaining ring or a barrel nut, as shown in your diagram.
Magazine Tube Installation
If you have removed the magazine tube, now is the time to reattach it. Thread the magazine tube into the receiver. Some Remington 870 models might have a different method for attaching the magazine tube. Your diagram will clarify this process, and will show where and how the magazine tube is attached. Make sure it is threaded securely and does not move.
Bolt Assembly and Insertion
The bolt is a complex but critical component. Your *Remington 870 Assembly Diagram* will guide you through this procedure. First, assemble the bolt components according to the diagram. This typically involves inserting the extractor and other small parts. Next, insert the assembled bolt into the receiver. The bolt should slide smoothly into the correct channel. Often, there’s a track the bolt follows. Ensure it moves freely within its designated area.
Trigger Group Installation
The trigger group houses the trigger mechanism. Carefully align the trigger group within the receiver. Secure it with the appropriate pins, using your punch set and hammer. Ensure that the trigger is able to move freely after installation and engage correctly. Check that the safety lever is functional.
Fore-end/Pump Installation
The pump (or fore-end) is a critical part of the action. Slide the fore-end assembly over the magazine tube. Then, insert the fore-end bars into the corresponding slots on the bolt. Push the fore-end all the way forward and back to verify the action is functioning. The pump action should move smoothly and without binding.
Stock Attachment
Attach the stock to the receiver. This typically involves securing the stock with screws. Make sure it is secured properly without stripping the threads. This step is often straightforward. Follow the instructions in your diagram for any special considerations in your particular model.
Installing other Parts
Refer to your *Remington 870 Assembly Diagram* for the placement of other parts, such as the shell lifter and extractor. Follow the visual guide carefully, using your punch set and hammer as necessary. Ensure each component is seated correctly and moves freely.
Testing the Action
After assembling all the major components, the action test is critical. Pump the fore-end back and forth repeatedly. The action should cycle smoothly without jamming. Observe the movement of the bolt, ensuring it goes through its entire range of motion.
Checking the Functions
Once the shotgun is back together, perform a safety check. Test the operation of the safety. Load dummy rounds (or spent casings) into the magazine tube, and cycle them through the action. The shotgun should load, extract, and eject these casings without any problems. Inspect the ejection pattern of the casings.
Cleaning and Lubrication
After assembly and the function test, clean and lubricate your Remington 870. Apply lubricant to all the moving parts. This reduces friction and prevents wear. Follow the instructions provided with your lubricant for the best results.
Maintaining Your Shotgun: Simple Routine
Regular maintenance will keep your Remington 870 functioning reliably.
- Cleaning: Clean the barrel after each use. Clean the action regularly.
- Lubrication: Lubricate the moving parts with a quality gun lubricant.
- Inspection: Inspect your shotgun frequently for any signs of wear or damage.
Regular inspection and care will extend the lifespan of your firearm.
Troubleshooting
Occasionally, you might encounter problems. Here are common issues and some tips.
- Action Jams: If the action jams, carefully unload the shotgun. Identify the cause, such as a misaligned part, or a broken component. Consult your diagram.
- Failure to Feed: Ensure the magazine tube is clean and free of debris. Check the action for any damage.
- Failure to Eject: Make sure the extractor is working correctly. Examine the ejector.
Consult a qualified gunsmith if problems persist.
Conclusion
Assembling a Remington 870 shotgun can seem daunting. By using the provided *Remington 870 Assembly Diagram*, following each step carefully, and prioritizing safety, the process becomes manageable. Remember, if you have any doubts, consult a professional gunsmith.
Always prioritize safety. Handle all firearms responsibly.
Disclaimer
This article provides general guidance and is for informational purposes only. The author and publication are not responsible for any misuse of this information. Always prioritize safety. Consult a qualified gunsmith for complex repairs or modifications. The author is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from following these instructions.
