Maintaining a Remington 870 demands consistent attention, and learning how to clean a 870 remington shotgun is the most critical skill any owner can develop. Proper cleaning removes powder residue, copper fouling, and environmental contaminants that can compromise safety and performance. This guide provides a thorough, step-by-step process suitable for field use or detailed home maintenance.
Essential Cleaning Kit and Safety Precautions
Before beginning, assembling the right tools ensures efficiency and prevents damage to the finish. A quality cleaning kit typically includes a bronze bore brush, nylon jag, utility brush, cotton patches, cleaning solvent, gun oil, and a cleaning rod with jag tips. Safety is paramount; always verify the shotgun is completely unloaded by opening the action and visually inspecting the chamber and magazine tube. Clear the area of any ammunition and maintain strict discipline to prevent negligent discharge during the entire process.
Disassembly for a Thorough Clean
Effective cleaning requires partial disassembly to access critical internal surfaces. Begin by locking the action open and removing the magazine cap or plug to expose the magazine tube. Extract the fore-end by pressing the release latch and sliding it forward, taking care not to scratch the barrel. With the stock oriented vertically, carefully extract the action assembly by pressing the release levers on the trigger guard, allowing the receiver to separate from the stock for complete access to the bolt and recoil spring.
Cleaning the Barrel and Bore
Bore Scrubbing and Rifling Care
The barrel endures the highest stress, so it requires meticulous attention. Attach a bronze brush to your cleaning rod, saturate it with solvent, and run it through the bore several times from breech to muzzle. Use firm, consistent pressure to break up lead, copper, and carbon deposits without scratching the rifling. Follow the brush with a nylon jag and dry patches until they emerge clean, then apply a lightly oiled patch to leave a protective film inside the barrel.
Cleaning the Action and Bolt Assembly
The action housing and bolt mechanism are responsible for the shotgun's reliable cycling, so removing carbon buildup is essential. Apply solvent to a utility brush and scrub the bolt face, locking lugs, and the interior of the receiver, paying close attention to the extractor and ejector mechanisms. Wipe away loosened debris with a cloth, then lubricate specified pivot points and contact surfaces with a high-quality gun oil, ensuring smooth operation without over-greasing that could attract more dirt.
Reassembly and Final Inspection
Once all components are clean and lightly oiled, reassemble the shotgun in reverse order. Slide the fore-end back onto the magazine tube, align the receiver lugs, and securely fasten the action to the stock. Reattach the magazine cap and verify that the safety engages smoothly and the trigger reset feels crisp. Conduct a final visual inspection to confirm no tools or patches remain inside, then cycle the action several times to distribute lubrication evenly and ensure flawless function.
Maintenance Schedule and Long-Term Care
How often you clean a Remington 870 depends on usage frequency and environmental conditions. After each shooting session, especially in damp or dirty environments, perform a quick bore wipe and check for residue. A comprehensive disassembly and deep clean should occur every 250 to 500 rounds, or more frequently if the gun is used for hunting in adverse conditions. Storing the shotgun in a cool, dry place with desiccant packs further protects against rust and premature wear.
