Remington 870 User Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe operation and maintenance of the Remington 870 and 870 Super Magnum pump-action shotguns.
The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability, versatility, and enduring popularity among hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement professionals. First introduced in 1950, it quickly became—and remains—a staple in the American firearms landscape. This user manual serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding, safely operating, and properly maintaining your Remington 870 or 870 Super Magnum.
Whether you are a seasoned shooter or new to firearms, this resource will provide crucial information regarding its components, safety procedures, operational functions, and essential maintenance practices. Always prioritize safety and thoroughly read this manual before handling your shotgun.
Historical Overview of the Remington 870
The Remington 870’s story began in 1950, filling a need for a modern, dependable, and affordable pump-action shotgun. Designed by L.D. Harrington, it quickly surpassed its competitors, becoming a favorite among hunters and sport shooters. Its initial success stemmed from innovative manufacturing techniques and a robust design.
Over the decades, the 870 has seen numerous variations, including the Super Magnum version, catering to diverse shooting needs. The model has been a mainstay for law enforcement and military applications, demonstrating its durability and adaptability. Continuous improvements and a commitment to quality have cemented the Remington 870’s place as an iconic American firearm.
Key Features and Benefits
The Remington 870 boasts a smooth, reliable pump-action, renowned for its ability to cycle various shotgun shells effectively. Its twin action bars contribute to this seamless operation, minimizing felt recoil. The receiver is machined from a solid billet of steel, ensuring exceptional strength and longevity.
Versatility is a key benefit, with interchangeable barrels and choke tubes adapting the shotgun to different shooting disciplines. From bird hunting to home defense, the 870 excels. Its simple design facilitates easy maintenance and customization. The 870’s enduring popularity reflects its blend of performance, durability, and affordability, making it a trusted choice for generations.
Understanding the Components
This section details the core parts of the Remington 870, including the receiver, barrel, action, stock, and forend, for proper familiarity.
Receiver and Action Assembly
The receiver is the central housing for the Remington 870’s action, providing structural integrity and containing critical components. It’s typically constructed from durable steel or aluminum alloy. The action, a pump-action mechanism, facilitates loading, unloading, and firing. Key parts include the bolt, bolt carrier, and slide forend, working in unison to cycle rounds.
Understanding the interaction between these elements is crucial for safe operation. The receiver features various rails and surfaces guiding the bolt’s movement. Proper lubrication of these areas ensures smooth cycling. Disassembly for cleaning requires careful attention to detail, following the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damage or malfunction. Regular inspection of the receiver and action for wear or damage is paramount for continued reliability.
Barrel and Choke System
The Remington 870’s barrel is typically constructed from high-strength steel, available in various lengths and configurations to suit different shooting applications. Its internal bore is designed for smooth projectile travel, and external threading accommodates the choke tube system.
The choke system controls the spread of the shot pattern. Interchangeable choke tubes – cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, and full – allow users to customize the pattern density for specific targets or game. Proper installation and removal of choke tubes are vital, utilizing the correct tools to prevent damage. Regular cleaning of the barrel and choke tube threads ensures optimal performance and prevents corrosion. Understanding choke constriction is key to effective shooting.
Stock and Forend Details
The Remington 870 features a stock and forend typically crafted from durable polymer or hardwood, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The stock’s length of pull and drop at comb influence shooter comfort and accuracy, with variations available to accommodate different body types.
The forend facilitates smooth pump-action operation. Its design allows for a firm grasp, essential for reliable cycling. Both stock and forend may feature checkering or textured surfaces for enhanced grip, particularly in adverse conditions. Aftermarket options abound, offering customization in materials, colors, and ergonomic features. Regular inspection for cracks or damage is crucial for safety and functionality. Proper maintenance ensures longevity and reliable performance.
Safety Procedures
Always prioritize firearm safety! Understand and consistently apply the four primary rules of gun safety before handling the Remington 870 shotgun.
Four Primary Rules of Gun Safety
Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. This fundamental rule reinforces a constant state of awareness and prevents accidental discharges. Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy. Responsible gun handling demands unwavering control of the firearm’s direction.
Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you have made the decision to shoot. This prevents unintentional firing due to reflex or accidental contact. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
Understand the environment and potential risks before firing, ensuring a safe backstop and clear line of sight. These rules are paramount for safe Remington 870 operation.
Remington 870 Specific Safety Features
The Remington 870 incorporates a manual safety located on the trigger guard. Engaging this safety physically blocks the trigger, preventing accidental firing, even if the firearm is dropped. A separate barrel selector allows for choosing between different barrel configurations, ensuring correct ammunition usage.
The action lock bar, a key component, positively locks the bolt into battery, enhancing safety and reliability during operation. Furthermore, the receiver is designed with robust construction, contributing to overall firearm integrity.
Regular inspection of these features is crucial. Always verify the safety is engaged when not actively shooting, and ensure proper barrel selection for the intended load. These features, combined with adherence to the four primary rules, maximize safe handling.
Safe Handling Practices
Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded, maintaining a constant awareness of potential hazards. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times, never aiming at anything you do not intend to shoot.
Maintain a firm grip on the Remington 870, and keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire. Be certain of your target and what is beyond it, considering potential ricochets and overpenetration.
Store the firearm unloaded, locked, and separate from ammunition. Regularly inspect the shotgun for any signs of damage or malfunction. Seek professional assistance if unsure about any aspect of its operation or safety.
Operation and Function
Mastering the Remington 870 involves understanding proper loading, unloading, action cycling, and choke selection for optimal performance and safe shooting experiences.
Loading and Unloading Procedures
Safe and correct loading and unloading are paramount when handling the Remington 870. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. To load, ensure the action is fully forward. Insert shells firmly into the tubular magazine, one at a time, pushing past the shell latch.
To chamber a round, fully operate the action. Verify the chamber is loaded before firing. Unloading requires pointing the shotgun safely and operating the action repeatedly to eject all shells.
Visually inspect the chamber and magazine to confirm they are empty. Never assume the firearm is unloaded; always physically check. Practice these procedures until they become second nature, prioritizing safety above all else. Remember to follow all local and federal firearm regulations.
Cycling the Action
Properly cycling the action of your Remington 870 is crucial for reliable operation and safe handling. The 870 utilizes a pump-action mechanism, requiring a firm and complete rearward and forward motion of the forend.
To cycle, grip the forend firmly and pull it fully rearward, then push it forward. This action ejects a spent shell and chambers a new one from the magazine. Ensure a full range of motion for consistent feeding and ejection.
Practice smooth, deliberate cycling to develop muscle memory. Avoid short-stroking the action, as this can lead to malfunctions. A properly cycled action ensures the shotgun is ready for the next shot, maintaining operational readiness and safety.
Choke Tube Selection and Installation
The Remington 870’s versatility is enhanced by its interchangeable choke tube system, allowing adaptation to various shooting scenarios. Selecting the correct choke constricts the shot pattern, influencing range and spread.
To install, ensure the barrel is clear and safely pointed in a secure direction. Unscrew the existing choke tube using a choke tube wrench. Apply a light coat of lubricant to the threads of the new choke tube before carefully screwing it into the barrel.
Tighten securely with the wrench, but avoid over-tightening. Different chokes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full) suit different purposes – tighter chokes for longer ranges, and more open chokes for closer targets.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular cleaning and lubrication are crucial for the Remington 870’s longevity and reliable function, preventing corrosion and ensuring smooth operation.
Disassembly for Cleaning
Before commencing disassembly, always ensure the shotgun is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction. Begin by removing the barrel assembly by pushing the barrel forward and down, then pulling it away from the receiver. Next, detach the forend by sliding it forward off the magazine tube. The bolt assembly can then be removed by locking the action open and sliding the bolt out the rear of the receiver.
Carefully remove the trigger group by depressing the trigger guard screws. Disassemble the bolt assembly, paying attention to the firing pin and spring. Proper sequencing is vital for reassembly; documenting each step with photos is highly recommended. Remember to consult the official Remington 870 manual for detailed diagrams and specific instructions tailored to your model.
Cleaning Procedures and Lubrication
After disassembly, thoroughly clean all components with a quality gun cleaning solvent. Use a bore brush to remove fouling from the barrel, followed by patches to wipe it clean. Pay close attention to the receiver, bolt assembly, and magazine tube, removing any accumulated dirt or residue. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish.
Once cleaned and dried, apply a light coat of gun oil to all moving parts, including the bolt, action bars, and trigger mechanism. Lubrication ensures smooth operation and prevents corrosion. Wipe off any excess oil to avoid attracting dirt. A properly lubricated Remington 870 will function reliably for years to come.
Long-Term Storage Guidelines
For extended storage, ensure the Remington 870 is completely clean and lubricated, as detailed previously. Apply a generous coat of gun oil to all metal surfaces, including the bore, to prevent rust. Store the shotgun in a cool, dry location with consistent temperature and humidity. Avoid storing in basements or attics prone to moisture.
Ideally, store the firearm in a hard case or gun safe to protect it from dust, damage, and unauthorized access. Periodically check the shotgun, even during storage, and reapply oil as needed. Proper long-term storage preserves the firearm’s functionality and value for future use.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
This section details solutions for typical Remington 870 malfunctions, including failures to feed, eject, and jamming, ensuring continued reliable operation.
Failure to Feed
A failure to feed with your Remington 870 typically indicates a problem with ammunition delivery into the chamber. First, ensure you are using the correct ammunition type and shell length for your shotgun’s configuration – 2 ¾”, 3”, or 3 ½” shells.
Inspect the ammunition itself for damage or deformation. Check the magazine tube for obstructions like dirt, debris, or damaged followers. Verify the shell latch is functioning correctly, allowing shells to be properly presented.
Ensure a firm, complete pump action stroke; incomplete cycling can prevent a new shell from being loaded. If the issue persists, carefully examine the feed ramps for any burrs or obstructions hindering smooth shell travel. Proper lubrication can also aid in reliable feeding.
Failure to Eject
When experiencing a failure to eject with your Remington 870, the spent shell casing doesn’t clear the action after firing. This often stems from a weak or broken ejector spring, or a dirty/obstructed ejector claw. Inspect the ejector for damage or excessive wear.
Ensure the ejector moves freely and has sufficient spring tension. A buildup of powder residue and fouling around the ejector port can impede proper function; thorough cleaning is crucial.
Verify the extractor is fully engaging the rim of the shell casing, as a weak extractor can contribute to ejection problems. Confirm the slide action is completing its full travel, providing enough energy for ejection. Lubrication of key action components can also improve reliability.
Remington 870 Jamming Solutions
Remington 870 jamming typically occurs when a shell fails to fully chamber or eject, obstructing the action. First, ensure the firearm is unloaded and safe before attempting to clear the jam. Gently cycle the action several times; avoid forcing it, which could cause damage.
If the jam persists, use a cleaning rod or similar tool (never a cartridge) to carefully dislodge the obstruction from the chamber or ejection port. Inspect the chamber and action for debris or damaged shells.
Regular cleaning and lubrication are vital preventative measures. Ensure proper shell selection and avoid using damaged ammunition. A properly functioning gas system and a smooth action are key to preventing jams.
Accessories and Modifications
Enhance your Remington 870 with aftermarket stocks, optics, and extended magazines for improved functionality and customization to suit individual needs.
Aftermarket Stocks and Forends
Upgrading the stock and forend of your Remington 870 significantly impacts comfort, control, and aesthetics. Numerous options exist, ranging from classic walnut replacements to modern synthetic materials. Synthetic stocks offer durability and weather resistance, ideal for harsh conditions, while walnut provides a traditional look and feel.
Consider recoil reduction when selecting a stock; options with recoil pads or specialized designs minimize felt recoil. Forends also come in various materials and styles, influencing grip and balance. Many aftermarket forends feature Picatinny rails for mounting accessories. Ensure any aftermarket part is specifically designed for the Remington 870 to guarantee proper fit and function, maintaining safe operation.
Optic Mounting Options
The Remington 870, while traditionally a bead sight firearm, offers several optic mounting possibilities for enhanced accuracy and versatility. Many owners choose to add red dot sights or low-power variable scopes for improved target acquisition. Mounting typically requires a receiver picatinny rail, available from various aftermarket manufacturers.
Careful consideration is needed to ensure the optic doesn’t interfere with the pump action. Low-profile optics are generally preferred. Some forends also incorporate Picatinny rails for mounting smaller optics or lasers. Always verify proper zeroing after installation and regularly check mounting hardware for tightness. Proper installation and optic selection are crucial for maintaining the shotgun’s functionality and reliability.
Extended Magazines and Accessories
Beyond the standard four-round magazine tube, the Remington 870 supports extended capacity options for competitive shooting or home defense scenarios. Numerous aftermarket manufacturers offer magazine tubes extending capacity to six, eight, or even ten rounds. Installation typically requires specific tools and may necessitate slight modifications.
Alongside extended magazines, a wide array of accessories enhances the 870’s functionality. These include shell carriers for quick reloads, side saddles for convenient access to spare rounds, and various sling options for comfortable carry. Recoil pads can also improve shooter comfort. Always ensure accessories are compatible with your specific 870 model and installed correctly for safe operation.