Remington 870 Disassembly Guide

Hey guys, so you've got yourself a classic Remington 870 shotgun, huh? Awesome choice! These shotguns are absolute workhorses, known for their reliability and versatility. But like any great tool, sometimes you need to give it a little TLC, and that often means taking it apart for cleaning or maybe a minor repair. If you're wondering about the Remington 870 disassembly manual, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down the process step-by-step, making it super easy for you to get your trusty 870 apart and back together without any headaches. Whether you're a seasoned gunsmith or a total beginner, this guide is designed to be clear, concise, and most importantly, safe. We'll cover the essential parts you'll need to remove and how to handle them, ensuring you don't lose any tiny springs or get yourself into a pickle. So, grab your tools, find a clean workspace, and let's dive into the world of Remington 870 disassembly. It's not as intimidating as it sounds, and understanding how your shotgun works is key to maintaining it for years of reliable service. We'll focus on the standard field model, as most variations follow a similar disassembly pattern. Remember, safety first! Always ensure the shotgun is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction before you begin. Let's get this done!

Getting Started: Safety and Tools for Remington 870 Disassembly

Alright, before we even think about touching a single part of your Remington 870, let's talk safety and tools. This is non-negotiable, folks! You wouldn't want to start a DIY project without the right gear, and working on firearms is no different, maybe even more critical. First and foremost, always verify your shotgun is unloaded. Remove the magazine follower and visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube to ensure there are absolutely no rounds present. Point the muzzle in a safe direction at all times. Seriously, quadruple-check. Now, for the tools. You don't need a professional gunsmith's arsenal, but a few basic items will make this Remington 870 disassembly job a breeze. You'll want a clean, well-lit workspace – a workbench or a sturdy table is ideal. Lay down a towel or a mat to prevent small parts from rolling away and to protect your surfaces. Essential tools include a punch set (various sizes, especially a smaller one for the trigger plate pin), a rubber mallet or a regular hammer (use the rubber mallet for most things to avoid damage, and the regular hammer very gently if needed), a flathead screwdriver (medium size), and perhaps a Phillips head screwdriver if you have any aftermarket parts. Some people find a pair of needle-nose pliers useful for stubborn parts, but try to avoid them if possible to prevent scratching. Lastly, and this is super important, have a container or a tray to keep your parts organized. A small plastic bin or even an ice cube tray works wonders. Labeling steps as you go can also be a lifesaver when it's time for reassembly. Remember, patience is key. Don't force anything. If a part feels stuck, take a step back, re-evaluate, and consult this guide or a reputable video if you're unsure. Rushing can lead to damaged parts or, worse, an improperly reassembled firearm. Let's make sure this Remington 870 field strip is a smooth and successful operation for you.

Step 1: Removing the Trigger Plate Assembly

Okay, guys, let's get down to business with the first major step in our Remington 870 disassembly: removing the trigger plate assembly. This is where things start to open up, and it's crucial to handle this part with care. First, ensure your shotgun is still unloaded and safe. Now, locate the two small pins towards the rear of the receiver, just above the trigger guard. These are your trigger plate pins. You'll want to use your punch set and a gentle tap from your mallet to drive these pins out. Start with the rear pin. It's usually the easiest to remove. Tap it out from left to right. Once that rear pin is out, the front pin should slide out more easily, or you might need another gentle tap. Again, always work gently. You don't want to bend these pins or damage the receiver. Once both pins are out, the entire trigger plate assembly, which includes the trigger, hammer, and safety mechanism, should be able to slide downwards and out of the receiver. Be aware that there might be a small spring or two associated with the trigger group, so be ready to catch them. Don't let them go flying! If the assembly doesn't slide out smoothly, double-check that the pins are fully removed and that no other parts are obstructing it. Sometimes, the bolt release lever might need to be slightly manipulated. Once it's out, set this assembly aside in your organized tray. This is often the most complex part to remove, and understanding its removal is key to understanding the Remington 870 field strip. Taking pictures as you go can be incredibly helpful, especially if this is your first time. This trigger plate assembly is the heart of the shotgun's action, so treat it gently. We're making great progress, and soon you'll have a better understanding of how your beloved 870 is put together. Keep up the good work!

Step 2: Removing the Bolt and Action Bars

With the trigger plate assembly safely out of the way, it's time to tackle the next critical phase of Remington 870 disassembly: removing the bolt and the action bars. This is what allows the shotgun to cycle rounds. First, make sure the receiver is still clear. Now, you'll need to get the bolt carrier group out. This is usually achieved by cycling the action forward as far as it will go, and then retracting it slightly while simultaneously pushing the bolt carrier itself forward and out of the receiver. Sometimes, you might need to slightly lift the bolt to clear the action bars. If it feels stiff, don't force it – check for any obstructions or pins you might have missed. Once the bolt carrier group is out, you'll see the action bars attached to it. These are the rods that connect the bolt to the forearm. In most standard Remington 870 models, the action bars are attached to the bolt assembly and can typically be slid off or detached once the bolt is out. Some models might have a small retaining mechanism or pin holding them. If they don't slide off freely, check for any screws or clips. Be mindful of any springs associated with the bolt. Once the bolt and action bars are separated or removed as a unit, set them aside. This part of the Remington 870 field strip allows you access to the inside of the receiver for thorough cleaning. Proper removal here ensures you can get to all the nooks and crannies that accumulate fouling. Remember to keep these parts together in your organized tray. You're doing great, and with the bolt and action bars out, you're well on your way to a complete breakdown. This step is vital for maintaining the smooth operation of your shotgun.

Step 3: Removing the Magazine Tube and Forearm

Alright guys, we're cruising through this Remington 870 disassembly! Now, let's focus on the magazine tube and forearm. This part can feel a little tricky, but we'll walk through it. First, ensure the bolt is completely out of the receiver. You'll see the magazine tube extending from the front of the receiver. Attached to the end of the magazine tube is the magazine cap. Unscrew this magazine cap. It might be a little tight, so a gentle grip or even a rubber-lined tool can help. Be careful not to scratch the finish. Once the cap is off, the forearm (also known as the fore-end) should be able to slide forward off the action bars. If it's stuck, gently wiggle it while pulling forward. If you removed the action bars from the bolt in the previous step, you might need to slide the forearm onto the bars before sliding the forearm off the receiver, or you might be able to slide the entire assembly (forearm and action bars) forward. If the action bars are still attached to the bolt, you'll slide the bolt and action bars forward together, and then the forearm will slide off the action bars. The magazine spring and follower will likely come out with the magazine cap, or you can pull them out of the magazine tube once the cap is removed. Keep these parts organized! The magazine spring is under tension, so don't let it fly out. This section of the Remington 870 field strip gives you access to the magazine tube for cleaning and inspection. Cleaning the magazine tube is often overlooked but is crucial for reliable feeding. Take your time here, especially with the magazine cap and spring. You're almost there, and soon you'll have your Remington 870 broken down into its main components, ready for a thorough clean or inspection. Great job!

Reassembly Tips and Final Thoughts

So, you've successfully completed the Remington 870 disassembly! High five! Now comes the satisfying part: putting it all back together. Reassembly is essentially the reverse of disassembly, but it requires just as much attention to detail, if not more. Start by re-inserting the magazine spring and follower into the magazine tube, followed by the magazine cap. Next, slide the forearm back onto the action bars, and then slide the action bars and bolt assembly back into the receiver. This can sometimes be the trickiest part – you might need to align everything perfectly. Make sure the bolt is fully seated and cycles smoothly. Finally, re-insert the trigger plate assembly into the receiver and align the pin holes. Reinstall the trigger plate pins, ensuring they are fully seated and secure. Always double-check that the pins are in the correct orientation and fully inserted. Once reassembled, without live ammunition, cycle the action several times. Dry fire the shotgun (again, ensuring it's unloaded) to check that the trigger and safety mechanisms are functioning correctly. If anything feels off, stop and retrace your steps. Refer back to your photos or this guide. Never force parts together. This entire Remington 870 field strip and reassembly process is designed to be manageable for the average owner. Taking the time to understand your firearm's mechanics will not only help you maintain it but also build your confidence as a shooter. Remember, a clean and well-maintained shotgun is a reliable shotgun. So, take pride in your work, guys! You've just gained valuable insight into your Remington 870. Happy shooting!