The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, known for its reliability and durability. But even the toughest firearm needs regular cleaning to maintain its performance and longevity. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of properly cleaning your Remington 870, ensuring it remains a reliable companion for years to come.
Before You Begin: Safety First!
Always prioritize safety when handling firearms. Before you begin cleaning, ensure the shotgun is unloaded. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube to confirm no cartridges are present. Point the muzzle in a safe direction – ideally, downrange in a well-ventilated area.
You'll need the following materials:
- Remington 870 cleaning kit: A kit specifically designed for the 870 will have the correct gauge brushes and jags.
- Gun oil: Use a high-quality gun oil designed for firearms.
- Patches: Use patches appropriate for your shotgun's gauge.
- Solvent: A good gun solvent helps break down fouling and residue.
- Cotton swabs: Useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- A cleaning rod: Make sure it's the correct length and gauge for your 870.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
1. Disassemble Your Remington 870
The level of disassembly depends on how thoroughly you want to clean your shotgun. For routine cleaning, you'll need to:
- Remove the forearm: Typically, this involves unscrewing a fastener or pushing a release button. Consult your owner's manual if you're unsure.
- Remove the barrel: This usually involves unscrewing the barrel from the receiver. Again, your owner's manual is your best resource.
- Remove the bolt: This will depend on your specific 870 model. Refer to your owner's manual for detailed instructions.
2. Clean the Barrel
This is the most crucial part of the cleaning process.
- Run a solvent patch: Attach a patch soaked in gun solvent to your cleaning rod and run it through the barrel from the breech (rear) to the muzzle (front). Repeat this several times until the patches come out relatively clean.
- Run a dry patch: After the solvent patches, run a dry patch through the barrel to absorb any remaining solvent. Repeat this until the patch comes out clean.
- Lightly oil the barrel: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of gun oil to the barrel using an oiled patch. This will protect against rust and corrosion.
3. Clean the Receiver and Other Parts
- Use a brush: Use a suitable brush to clean the receiver, bolt, and other internal parts, paying close attention to any areas with built-up residue.
- Use solvent and patches: For stubborn fouling, apply solvent to the parts and use patches or cotton swabs to wipe them clean.
- Lightly oil the parts: After cleaning, apply a thin layer of gun oil to all metal parts.
4. Reassemble Your Remington 870
Carefully reassemble your shotgun, ensuring all parts are correctly seated and aligned. Consult your owner's manual if needed.
5. Function Check (Optional)
After cleaning, you might want to perform a function check to ensure the shotgun functions correctly. Do this in a safe manner, pointing the muzzle in a safe direction. Dry fire (without ammunition) several times to confirm smooth operation.
Frequency of Cleaning
The frequency of cleaning depends on the amount of use your Remington 870 receives. After shooting, clean your shotgun as soon as possible to prevent residue from building up. At a minimum, you should clean your 870 after every shooting session. For less frequent shooting, you may be able to clean it every few months. Always inspect your firearm for rust or damage before and after each cleaning.
Beyond Basic Cleaning
For more in-depth cleaning, you might consider using a bore snake or other specialized tools. Always refer to your owner's manual for specific cleaning instructions and recommendations for your Remington 870 model. Proper gun maintenance is crucial for safety and extending the life of your firearm. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.
