how to disassemble a 870 remington

2 min read 11-01-2025

The Remington 870 shotgun is a popular and reliable firearm, known for its durability and ease of maintenance. Regular cleaning and inspection are crucial for maintaining its performance and ensuring safety. Knowing how to properly disassemble and reassemble your 870 is a fundamental skill for any responsible owner. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough. Remember to always point the firearm in a safe direction and ensure it's unloaded before beginning any disassembly.

Safety First: Unloading Your Remington 870

Before you even think about disassembling your Remington 870, completely unload the firearm. This means:

Visually inspect the chamber: Make absolutely sure no cartridges are present.
Open the action: Work the action to ensure there are no rounds in the magazine tube.
Check the magazine tube: Visually inspect the magazine tube to confirm it's empty.

Neglecting this crucial step can lead to serious injury.

Tools You'll Need

For basic disassembly, you'll only need a screwdriver (usually a standard Phillips head). Some advanced cleaning might require a cleaning rod and patches, but those aren't necessary for basic disassembly.

Step-by-Step Disassembly of a Remington 870

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to disassemble your Remington 870:

1. Removing the Bolt Assembly

Open the action: Fully open the action of the shotgun.
Remove the bolt: Push the bolt release button (located on the left side of the receiver), and gently slide the bolt assembly rearward and out of the receiver.

2. Removing the Trigger Group

Locate the trigger group retaining pin: This pin is usually located on the bottom of the receiver.
Remove the retaining pin: Use your screwdriver to carefully remove the retaining pin. Keep track of this small pin, as it's easy to lose.
Remove the trigger group: Once the retaining pin is out, gently lower the trigger group. It should slide out the bottom of the receiver.

3. Removing the Fore-End

Open the action: Ensure the action is fully open.
Remove the fore-end: Slide the fore-end assembly forward off the magazine tube.

At this point, your Remington 870 is disassembled for basic cleaning and inspection. You can now clean the various components thoroughly.

Reassembly of the Remington 870

Reassembly is essentially the reverse of the disassembly process. Here are some tips to make it easier:

Work slowly and methodically: Take your time, and ensure each part is properly seated before moving on.
Consult a diagram: If you're having trouble, refer to a parts diagram for your specific model of Remington 870. Many diagrams are readily available online.
Double-check: Once reassembled, double-check that the action functions smoothly and that the firearm is functioning properly before using it.

Maintaining Your Remington 870

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping your Remington 870 in top condition. This includes:

Cleaning after each use: Remove any residue or debris from the barrel and action.
Lubrication: Apply a light coat of gun oil to moving parts.
Storage: Store your firearm in a cool, dry place, unloaded and away from children.

Conclusion

Disassembling and reassembling your Remington 870 is a straightforward process once you understand the steps. By following these instructions carefully and prioritizing safety, you can maintain your firearm effectively and ensure many years of reliable service. Remember, always consult your owner's manual for specific details related to your model of Remington 870. If you're unsure about any part of this process, seek guidance from a qualified gunsmith. Safe handling and proper maintenance are crucial for responsible firearm ownership.