Taking apart a Remington 870 requires respect for the tool and a methodical approach. This pump-action workhorse is built to handle abuse, but that durability means the internal components are dense and robust. Proper disassembly is the first step to cleaning, maintenance, or repair, ensuring the shotgun functions reliably round after round.
The Importance of a Complete Field Strip
Unlike some modern firearms, the Remington 870 disassembly does not involve separating the receiver into major halves. The standard field strip is designed to break the operation down into manageable parts without requiring specialized gunsmith tools. This process removes the barrel, forend, and bolt assembly, giving you direct access to the action bars, springs, and contact surfaces where carbon buildup and copper fouling accumulate. A thorough strip reveals small debris that a simple outer wipe would miss, allowing for a deeper clean that prevents malfunctions.
Safety Protocols Before Starting
Safety is non-negotiable and must be the first step in any maintenance routine. You must visually and physically confirm the chamber and magazine tube are empty, checking both the barrel and the area beneath the forend. Even if you believe the gun is unloaded, treat it as if it is loaded until the trigger is pulled and the hammer falls on an empty primer. Engage the safety mechanism and work in a well-lit, organized space to avoid losing small parts like the action bar spring.
Step-by-Step Disassembly Process
The actual Remington 870 disassembly is straightforward, but precision matters. Begin by locking the slide open and removing the magazine cap. Extract the magazine tube and the plastic cap that secures the action bar spring. Grasp the bolt assembly and carefully pull it rearward and upward out of the receiver. The key is to keep the action bar lugs aligned with the rails to avoid bending the delicate metal components that ensure smooth cycling.
Handling the Trigger Assembly
With the bolt removed, the trigger group is now accessible. Depending on your model, you may need to remove the trigger guard or hinge pin to separate the assembly. This step requires patience; the pins are press-fit tightly to prevent wobble during firing. Use a punch and a solid surface to gently tap the pin out, supporting the receiver to prevent metal deformation. Document the order of the disconnector, hammer, and sear as you remove them, as reinstallation relies heavily on correct placement.
Maintenance and Inspection Insights
With the major components laid out on a clean mat, you can inspect each part for wear. Examine the extractor claw for cracks, check the firing pin for free movement, and assess the condition of the recoil spring inside the bolt. Carbon buildup on the action bars should be scrubbed with a bronze brush and solvent, while the steel surfaces benefit from a light oil to resist rust. This detailed inspection is where you catch small issues before they turn into catastrophic failures on the range.
Reassembly for Optimal Performance
Reassembling the Remington 870 is the reverse of disassembly, but it demands the same level of attention. Start by sliding the bolt assembly forward into the receiver, ensuring the action bars seat into the channels without resistance. Replace the trigger group components in the exact order you removed them, tightening the hinge pin securely without over-torquing. A proper reassembly results in a smooth trigger pull and a positive lockup when the slide closes, signs that the shotgun is ready for duty.
