As an avid gun enthusiast, I know the importance of keeping your Remington 870 in top shape. It’s not just about performance; it’s about safety too. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of cleaning your Remington 870, ensuring it’s ready for your next adventure.
Reasons to Clean Your Remington 870 Regularly
Keeping your Remington 870 clean might seem like an optional task, but it’s actually a necessity. The reasons go much deeper than just aesthetics.
First off, proper cleaning promotes better functioning. Over time, particles can accumulate in your shotgun’s working parts. This buildup can affect the gun’s performance, making it less reliable. Regular cleaning can prevent this issue, helping your Remington 870 to operate just like new.
Another reason to clean your Remington 870 regularly is to prevent rust and corrosion. The various elements your shotgun is exposed to can cause moisture to build up, leading to rust. Regularly cleaning and oiling your shotgun helps protect it from this kind of damage.
Let’s not forget about saving money in the long run. Timely maintenance and cleaning of your Remington 870 extends its life. By keeping the gun in peak shape, you’ll avoid costly replacements or repairs.
It’s also worth mentioning safety. If you have a dirty, clogged shotgun, it could potentially malfunction. Misfires and other malfunctions are dangerous, to say the least. Your safety is paramount, so maintaining a clean shotgun is a sensible course of action.
Last but not least, consider this. Your Remington 870 is an investment. It’s only logical to properly care for and maintain your investment. Regular cleaning gives your shotgun the attention it deserves, helping it maintain its wealth and value.
Just remember, cleaning isn’t just a chore to tick off your list. It’s an essential part of owning and enjoying a Remington 870. Your shotgun deserves the best treatment and you deserve a reliable, safe, and well-performing firearm. So, let’s get down to business and discuss how you can clean your Remington 870.
Safety precautions before cleaning your Remington 870
Before we kick off the action, let’s look at some safety precautions. Safety should always take the front seat when handling firearms, and cleaning is no exception. Trust me, it’s much less of a headache to stick to precautions.
Always Unload Your Shotgun : First off, please, for your safety, ensure the Remington 870 is fully unloaded. It sounds like a no-brainer. But you wouldn’t believe the number of accidents that occur because a firearm wasn’t correctly unloaded!
It’s simple – remove any shells from the magazine and chamber. Verify, then verify again. There’s no room for blunders here!
Safe Handling Practices : Don’t let your guard down just because you’re cleaning. Incorrect handling can lead to accidents. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Treat your Remington 870 with the respect it deserves.
Let’s Talk about Space : Choose a well-lit, clutter-free area. You wouldn’t want tiny springs or other parts disappearing into the abyss of a cluttered workspace! An ample workspace prevents unwanted accidents and gives you a better cleaning experience.
Wear Protective Gear : I cannot overstate the importance of using eye protection and gloves. Cleaning solutions and lubricants can be harmful if they come into contact with the wrong body parts. Stay safe and avoid any unnecessary trips to the doctor.
Do Not Rush : Rushing won’t get you any medals. Instead, it might end up costing you! The Remington 870 is a complex machine. Take your time to understand the different parts and how they work together.
Gather the Necessary Cleaning Supplies
Now that we understand the importance of cleaning our Remington 870 and the safety measures to consider, it’s time to dive into preparation. Gathering the right cleaning supplies is crucial to effectively maintain your shotgun.
A basic cleaning kit for your Remington 870 should include:
- A cleaning rod with brushes and jags
- A bore snake
- Cleaning patches and solvent
- A toothbrush or a small brush for the small parts
- A lubricant (oil or grease)
- Cotton swabs or pipe cleaners
- Cotton towels or rags
Before we explore each of these tools and their use, keep in mind that the quality of your chosen products largely impacts the longevity of your shotgun. Cheaper products may compromise the cleaning process and potentially harm your Remington 870 over time.
Using the cleaning rod, you can scrub away any dirt, powder deposits, and other debris from the barrel. It’s advisable to use brass brushes, as they are tough on dirt yet gentle to the barrel.
A bore snake, another versatile tool, helps clean the shotgun barrel quickly and effectively, especially when your shotgun is lightly soiled or for that quick field cleaning.
The cleaning patches and solvent work together to lift any residual dirt in your shotgun. The patches, saturated in solvent, are pushed through the barrel with the cleaning rod. It’s critical to find a solvent suited for your needs – some target carbon build-up, while others focus on lead or copper.
For those hard-to-reach spaces and tiny parts, you’ll need a toothbrush or a small brush. Meanwhile, cotton swabs or pipe cleaners are perfect for cleaning intricate designs or corners in your shotgun.
When it’s all clean, protect your shotgun from future corrosion by rubbing a lubricant, like oil or grease, over the shotgun’s surface. Finally, to wipe away lint, oil, or other residues, have some clean cotton towels or rags on hand.
Now that you’ve compiled your cleaning arsenal, you’re all set to start the cleaning process of your Remington 870.
Step-by-step Guide to Cleaning Your Remington 870
Now that we’ve covered the essential cleaning supplies, let’s dive into the actual cleaning process of your treasured Remington 870.
Firstly, safety is paramount. Ensuring the firearm is unloaded must always be first on your checklist before starting the cleaning process. It’s crucial that you double-check the chamber and magazine to ensure there are no remaining shells, I can’t stress this enough.
Begin by field stripping your shotgun. This involves taking apart your gun to reach the parts that need cleaning. Your Remington 870 should come apart into the following components: barrel, receiver, bolt, trigger assembly, magazine spring, follower, and retainer. Keep these parts organized as you disassemble them, for ease of reassembly later.
Once you’ve disassembled your Remington 870, it’s time to get started with the cleaning process. Here’s how:
- Start with the barrel: Use your cleaning rod with the appropriately sized brush attached, and soak it in your chosen solvent.
- Run the brush through the barrel a few times: Make sure you move from breech to muzzle, this will effectively lift and remove any built-up residue.
- Next, use the jag: Attach a patch soaked in solvent to your jag and run it through the barrel.
Now for the small parts, I always prefer using a toothbrush or any other small brush available. This makes it easier to get to those small nooks and crannies where dirt and fouling can hide. Always scrub in a way that you don’t push the dirt back into the firearm.
When you’re done scrubbing, wipe everything down with cotton towels or rags and apply a thin layer of lubricant to where it’s needed.
Remember, it’s important not just to clean but also to preserve the integrity of your Remington 870. Regular cleaning increases the longevity of your gun, ensuring it continues to provide stellar performance with every pull of the trigger! Now, let’s move on…
Tips for Maintaining a Clean Remington 870
Maintaining your Remington 870 isn’t just about routine cleaning, it’s also about taking proper care in between each cleaning session. There are a few practices that can help keep your shotgun in top form for longer periods.
First off, you’ve gotta store it in a dry environment. The exterior of your Remington 870 is subject to rust and corroding over time, especially if it’s exposed to moist or humid conditions. Those conditions can also cause damage to the internal components over time, so dry storage is essential. An excellent option is to use desiccant packs or a dehumidifier in your gun storage area to keep moisture at bay.
Next, when you’re out in the field, avoid unnecessary exposure to dust and grime. These substances can gunk up the blog, making it harder to clean and potentially compromising the performance and lifespan of the shotgun.
We all know how important it is that every time you use your Remington 870, you should wipe it down with a clean, dry cloth. This removes any residue or dirt that has accumulated during use, and it can help prevent build-up that might be harder to remove during your next thorough cleaning.
You need to understand that over-lubrication can be harmful too. It’s important to apply lubricants only to the designated areas, such as the action bars, bolt, and slide assembly. Avoid applying too much as it can attract dirt and debris during use.
Lastly, monitor and inspect your shotgun regularly, even if you haven’t used it in a while. Catching signs of wear or damage early could save you from more extensive damage down the road.
By following these straightforward tips, you’ll sustain the condition of your Remington 870, maintain optimal performance, and extend its lifespan. After all, a well-maintained shotgun is a reliable one.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Cleaning your Remington 870 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right knowledge and a bit of practice, it’s something you’ll get the hang of in no time. Remember, it’s not just about cleaning, but also about proper maintenance. Storing it in a dry place, minimizing dust exposure, wiping it down post-use, and using lubricants wisely are all essential. Regular checks for wear and tear can’t be overlooked either. By following these guidelines, you’re not just cleaning a shotgun, you’re preserving its performance and extending its lifespan. So, roll up your sleeves and treat your Remington 870 with the care it deserves. Your shotgun will thank you for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I clean my Remington 870 shotgun?
Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the performance and lifespan of your Remington 870 shotgun. It is recommended to clean your shotgun after every use or every 200-300 rounds fired, depending on the nature of the shooting.
Q: What safety precautions should I take while cleaning my shotgun?
Safety is paramount when handling firearms. Start by ensuring the shotgun is unloaded and the safety is engaged. Use a well-ventilated area and wear safety glasses and gloves. Keep your fingers away from the trigger and point the barrel in a safe direction.
Q: How do I clean the barrel of my shotgun?
To clean the barrel, attach a bore brush to a cleaning rod, apply solvent, and push the brush through the barrel several times. Follow up with a clean patch to remove any residue or debris. Finish by applying a light coat of oil to protect against rust.
Q: Which parts of the shotgun require lubrication?
Lubrication is essential for smooth operation. Apply a small amount of quality gun oil or lubricant to the action bars, bolt, slide, and hinges. Avoid over-lubrication as excess oil can attract dirt and cause malfunctions.
Q: How should I store my Remington 870 shotgun when not in use?
Store your shotgun in a clean, dry environment. Avoid exposure to excessive humidity, dust, or extreme temperatures. Consider using a gun safe or a designated gun rack to protect the firearm from damage and unauthorized access.
Q: How can I maintain my shotgun between cleanings?
After each use, wipe down the exterior of the shotgun with a clean cloth or silicone cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or sweat. Check for any visible signs of wear, damage, or rust regularly. Promptly address any issues to prevent further damage or performance issues.
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