Maintaining a Remington 870 in top working condition is essential for both safety and reliability. Whether you use this shotgun for home defense, competitive shooting, or waterfowl hunting, a thorough cleaning after every session prevents corrosion and ensures smooth operation. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for cleaning a Remington 870, focusing on best practices that preserve the finish and internal components.
Safety First: Preparing Your Workspace
Before you begin, treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Verify the action is open and the chamber is empty by physically inspecting it with your eyes and finger. Choose a well-lit area with a stable surface, such as a workbench with a gun mat. Gather all necessary supplies, including a cleaning rod, patches, solvent, lubricant, a nylon brush, and cotton swabs. Keeping everything within reach prevents the need to leave the firearm unattended in an unsafe state.
Disassembly for Deep Cleaning
To access the critical internal components, you must field strip the shotgun correctly. With the action open, retract the forend and slide it forward off the magazine tube. Remove the magazine cap or plug at the base of the stock to extract the recoil spring and follower. At this stage, the bolt, firing pin, and extractor are accessible. Handle the small springs with care, as they can release energy suddenly if not controlled.
Cleaning the Barrel
The barrel accumulates the most residue, so starting here is efficient. Attach a patch jag to your cleaning rod and saturate a patch with solvent. Push the patch through the bore from the breech end until it exits the muzzle. Let the solvent sit for several minutes to break down carbon and powder fouling. Follow with a dry patch until the rod comes out clean, then run a lightly oiled patch through to protect the rifling. Avoid using excessive force, which might damage the crown.
Wiping Down the Action and Components
With the barrel cleared, turn your attention to the metal surfaces inside the action. Use a nylon brush dipped in solvent to scrub the bolt, locking lug, and the interior of the receiver. Pay close attention to the areas where metal touches metal, as friction points generate the most carbon buildup. Wipe these components with a patch or a cloth until they shine, removing the gritty residue that causes wear over time.
Lubrication: The Finishing Touch
Applying lubricant correctly is just as important as the cleaning itself. A thin film of high-quality gun oil on the bolt rails and the points where the bolt meets the receiver ensures smooth cycling. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the recoil spring and guide rod, avoiding the barrel and action rings where oil can attract debris. Remember, the goal is slick movement, not a heavy coating that collects dirt.
Reassemble the shotgun in the reverse order of disassembly, ensuring the recoil spring and follower are seated correctly in the magazine tube. Cycle the action several times to verify the bolt moves freely without obstruction. Finally, check the trigger mechanism and safety selector for smooth operation. Consistent maintenance after every range trip transforms cleaning from a chore into a routine that safeguards your investment and shooting experience.
