Disassembly of the Remington 870 shotgun’s magazine tube spring allows for thorough cleaning, maintenance, and replacement of worn or damaged components. This process involves carefully manipulating the magazine cap, follower, and spring within the tube to ensure safe and proper removal without damage to the parts or the firearm.
Maintaining a clean and functional magazine spring is critical for reliable feeding and cycling of ammunition. A compromised spring can lead to malfunctions such as misfeeds, jams, and failure to chamber rounds, significantly impacting the shotgun’s performance and safety. Regular cleaning and inspection can prevent these issues, contributing to the firearm’s longevity and dependability. This practice has been essential since the Remington 870’s introduction in 1950, ensuring its continued effectiveness for hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement personnel.
The following sections will detail the steps involved in this process, emphasizing safety precautions and proper techniques to ensure successful disassembly and reassembly of the Remington 870’s magazine tube components.
1. Unload Shotgun Completely.
Unloading the firearm is the foundational step in the disassembly process, ensuring safe manipulation of the magazine spring and other components. Failure to completely unload the Remington 870 before any disassembly creates a significant risk of accidental discharge, potentially resulting in serious injury or death. This procedure must be performed meticulously and verified before proceeding.
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Verification of Empty Chamber and Magazine Tube
Confirming the absence of ammunition in both the chamber and the magazine tube is paramount. This involves visually inspecting the chamber, cycling the action to eject any shells, and checking the magazine tube for remaining rounds. Tactile verification, by feeling inside the magazine tube with a finger or dowel, adds an additional layer of certainty. Overlooking this step can have catastrophic consequences.
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Safety Mechanisms
Engaging the safety, while a crucial practice during general firearm handling, does not replace the need for complete unloading. The safety mechanism is a mechanical device subject to potential failure. Relying solely on the safety for preventing accidental discharge during disassembly is insufficient. Unloading the firearm is the primary and essential safety measure.
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Environmental Awareness
Maintaining awareness of the surrounding environment throughout the unloading process is vital. This includes ensuring the muzzle is pointed in a safe direction and the work area is clear of obstructions and distractions. A controlled and deliberate approach minimizes the risk of accidental discharge or damage to the firearm.
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Post-Unloading Inspection
After the unloading procedure, a final visual and physical inspection should be conducted to confirm the absence of any ammunition. This final check reinforces the previous steps and provides absolute certainty before proceeding with the disassembly process.
Complete unloading eliminates the primary hazard associated with firearm maintenance. This fundamental precaution ensures the safety of the individual performing the disassembly and those in the vicinity. Only after meticulously verifying the firearm is unloaded should work on the magazine spring or any other internal component commence. This critical step forms the bedrock of safe and responsible firearm maintenance.
2. Unscrew magazine cap.
Removal of the magazine cap is the crucial second step in accessing the Remington 870’s magazine spring. This action directly enables access to the follower and subsequently the spring itself. The magazine cap, typically located at the end of the magazine tube, secures the internal components and must be unscrewed before any further disassembly can occur. Failure to remove the cap prevents access to the spring and renders any attempts at spring removal impossible. The cap’s design, often knurled or textured for grip, allows for manual removal; however, specific tools may be required in cases of excessive tightening or damage.
A practical example illustrating the importance of this step involves a scenario where a Remington 870 user experiences feeding issues. A compressed or damaged magazine spring is a common culprit in such malfunctions. Accessing and inspecting this spring requires the removal of the magazine cap. Without this initial step, diagnosis and rectification of the feeding problem become impossible. Another example is the need for thorough cleaning of the magazine tube and spring. Accumulated debris and fouling can impede the spring’s function. Accessing these components for cleaning hinges on the successful removal of the magazine cap.
Understanding the magazine cap’s role as the gateway to the magazine spring underscores its significance in the overall disassembly process. This seemingly simple action is a prerequisite for any maintenance, repair, or replacement of the spring and related components. Difficulties in removing the cap, such as excessive tightening or damage, might necessitate the use of specialized tools or professional gunsmithing services. Successful removal of the magazine cap, therefore, represents a pivotal step in the process of maintaining or repairing the Remington 870’s critical feeding mechanism.
3. Remove follower.
Extraction of the follower is essential after removing the magazine cap in the Remington 870 disassembly process. This component, situated within the magazine tube, sits between the magazine spring and the ammunition. Its removal is a prerequisite for accessing and removing the spring safely. Failure to remove the follower prevents spring removal and can lead to damage if improper force is applied.
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Function of the Follower
The follower acts as a platform, applying pressure to the rounds within the magazine tube and ensuring they feed correctly into the action. This constant pressure, derived from the magazine spring, is essential for reliable cycling. Removing the follower disengages this pressure, allowing the spring to be released safely. For example, if one attempts to remove the spring without first removing the follower, the compressed spring could launch the follower with considerable force, potentially causing injury or loss of the part.
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Follower Design and Variations
Remington 870 followers typically consist of a polymer or metal body designed to withstand the forces exerted by the magazine spring. Variations exist depending on the shotgun’s configuration, such as extensions or specialized ammunition types. Understanding the specific follower type in a given Remington 870 is crucial for proper removal. An improperly removed follower could become damaged, impacting future feeding and function. For instance, some followers may have specific release mechanisms or orientations within the tube.
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Safe Removal Techniques
Once the magazine cap is removed, the follower can usually be extracted easily by hand. However, if resistance is encountered, gentle manipulation or the use of a non-marring tool may be necessary. Caution should be exercised to avoid scratching the magazine tube or damaging the follower. Forcibly removing a stuck follower could lead to its breakage or damage to the magazine tubes interior, potentially impacting the shotgun’s long-term reliability.
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Inspection and Replacement
Upon removal, the follower should be inspected for wear, cracks, or other damage. A worn or damaged follower can negatively impact the shotguns feeding reliability. Replacement followers are readily available and should be considered if any defects are identified. Regular inspection and timely replacement contribute to the consistent performance and longevity of the firearm’s feeding mechanism.
Removing the follower is a critical intermediary step in the Remington 870 magazine spring removal process. It allows for safe decompression and extraction of the spring while offering an opportunity to inspect the follower itself for wear or damage. This process, while seemingly simple, is crucial for ensuring the shotgun’s reliable feeding and overall performance.
4. Release spring carefully.
Releasing the magazine spring is the culmination of the Remington 870 magazine spring removal process. This step requires deliberate care and attention due to the potential energy stored within the compressed spring. Improper release can lead to the spring launching unexpectedly, posing a risk of injury or loss of the spring itself. This stage is crucial for preserving the integrity of the spring and ensuring safe handling.
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Controlled Decompression
The magazine spring is under considerable compression within the tube. Controlled decompression is essential to prevent sudden release and potential hazards. This involves slowly and deliberately easing the spring out of the tube, maintaining a firm grip to prevent it from launching. For example, placing a hand or a soft cloth over the tube opening while releasing the spring can help control its movement and prevent it from projecting outwards. This controlled approach minimizes the risk of injury and ensures the spring remains undamaged.
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Observing Spring Condition
The release process provides an opportunity to observe the spring’s condition. Inspecting the spring for signs of wear, rust, or damage is critical for assessing its continued functionality. A weakened or damaged spring can compromise the shotgun’s feeding reliability. For instance, a spring exhibiting signs of rust or deformation may require replacement to ensure proper firearm function. This visual inspection during release provides valuable insight into the spring’s condition and the potential need for replacement.
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Safe Storage
Once removed, the spring should be stored safely to prevent damage or loss. Proper storage prevents deformation and protects the spring from environmental factors that could compromise its functionality. Storing the spring in a clean, dry environment, such as a sealed bag or container, helps maintain its integrity. This practice ensures the spring remains in optimal condition for future reinstallation or until a replacement is required. Proper storage also prevents the spring from becoming a potential hazard.
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Reassembly Considerations
Understanding the correct orientation and placement of the spring during reassembly is crucial for proper firearm function. Improper installation can lead to feeding malfunctions and potentially damage other components. Consulting the Remington 870 owner’s manual or seeking guidance from a qualified gunsmith can ensure correct spring placement during reassembly. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of future malfunctions and ensures the firearm operates reliably.
Careful release of the magazine spring is paramount for safety and preserving the spring’s integrity. This final step in the removal process offers an opportunity to assess the spring’s condition and prepare it for safe storage. Understanding the nuances of this process contributes significantly to the overall maintenance and longevity of the Remington 870 shotgun.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding Remington 870 magazine spring removal, providing clear and concise answers to facilitate proper maintenance and address potential concerns.
Question 1: What tools are required for magazine spring removal?
Typically, no specialized tools are necessary. The magazine cap can usually be removed by hand. However, a padded tool, such as a rubber grip wrench, might be helpful for stubborn caps to prevent marring the finish. In rare cases of extreme tightness or damage, a gunsmith may be required.
Question 2: What safety precautions should be observed during spring removal?
The most critical safety precaution is ensuring the firearm is completely unloaded before any disassembly. This involves verifying an empty chamber and magazine tube. Eye protection is recommended to safeguard against potential spring ejection. Pointing the muzzle in a safe direction throughout the process is also crucial.
Question 3: How often should the magazine spring be removed for cleaning?
Regular cleaning frequency depends on usage and environmental conditions. Cleaning is recommended after each use in harsh environments. For less frequent use or cleaner conditions, cleaning the spring and magazine tube every few hundred rounds or annually is generally sufficient.
Question 4: What indicates a need for magazine spring replacement?
Signs of wear, rust, deformation, or consistent feeding issues indicate a potential need for spring replacement. A weakened spring can compromise firearm reliability. If in doubt, replacement is advisable to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Question 5: Can any magazine spring be used in a Remington 870?
Using the correct spring for the specific Remington 870 model and configuration is crucial. Variations exist depending on gauge and magazine tube length. Using an incorrect spring can lead to malfunctions. Consulting the owner’s manual or a qualified gunsmith is recommended to ensure compatibility.
Question 6: What should be done if the spring becomes damaged during removal?
A damaged spring should be replaced immediately. Attempting to repair a damaged spring is not recommended and can compromise firearm safety and functionality. Replacement springs are readily available and should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions or with the assistance of a qualified gunsmith.
Proper maintenance, including careful removal, inspection, and replacement of the magazine spring, is essential for the reliable and safe operation of the Remington 870 shotgun. Addressing these common questions proactively ensures proper care and contributes to the firearm’s longevity.
Further information on Remington 870 maintenance can be found in the owner’s manual or by consulting a qualified gunsmith.
Tips for Remington 870 Magazine Spring Removal
These tips provide practical guidance for safe and effective magazine spring removal in a Remington 870 shotgun. Careful attention to these recommendations helps ensure proper component handling and minimizes the risk of damage or injury.
Tip 1: Secure a Clean Work Area: A clutter-free workspace reduces the risk of losing small parts and allows for focused attention on the task. Adequate lighting is essential for clear visibility of components.
Tip 2: Use Proper Lighting: Adequate illumination is crucial for clear visibility of small components and ensures proper identification and handling during the disassembly process. This minimizes the risk of errors and potential damage.
Tip 3: Keep Parts Organized: A small parts tray or organizer helps maintain order and prevents loss of components during disassembly. This systematic approach simplifies reassembly and reduces the likelihood of errors.
Tip 4: Consult the Owner’s Manual: Referring to the manufacturer’s instructions provides specific guidance and diagrams for the particular Remington 870 model, ensuring the correct procedures are followed. This resource offers valuable insights and clarifies any uncertainties.
Tip 5: Exercise Caution with the Spring: The compressed magazine spring possesses potential energy. Controlled release prevents sudden ejection and minimizes the risk of injury or loss of the spring. A firm grip and slow, deliberate movements are recommended.
Tip 6: Inspect Components Thoroughly: Carefully examine the magazine spring, follower, and magazine tube for signs of wear, damage, or debris. This inspection helps identify potential issues and ensures proper function after reassembly.
Tip 7: Lubricate Lightly: Applying a light coat of gun oil to the magazine spring and follower after cleaning can enhance smooth operation and protect against corrosion. Avoid excessive lubrication, which can attract debris.
Tip 8: Seek Professional Assistance When Needed: If any difficulties are encountered during disassembly or if damage is observed, consulting a qualified gunsmith is recommended. Professional expertise ensures proper repair and maintenance, preserving the firearm’s functionality and safety.
Adherence to these tips ensures the safe and efficient removal of the Remington 870 magazine spring, contributing to proper maintenance and the long-term reliability of the firearm.
The subsequent conclusion will summarize the key takeaways and emphasize the importance of proper maintenance for optimal firearm performance.
Final Observations on Remington 870 Magazine Spring Removal
Proper Remington 870 magazine spring removal is crucial for effective maintenance and component replacement. The process requires meticulous attention to safety, including complete firearm unloading and controlled spring decompression. Following the outlined stepsfrom magazine cap removal to careful spring releaseensures safe and efficient disassembly, allowing for thorough cleaning, inspection, and necessary replacements. Understanding the function and interaction of components, such as the follower and spring, emphasizes the importance of proper handling and reassembly.
Maintaining the Remington 870’s magazine spring contributes significantly to the firearm’s reliability and longevity. Regular cleaning and inspection, coupled with timely replacement of worn or damaged parts, ensures consistent performance and safe operation. Diligent maintenance practices safeguard the firearm’s functionality, contributing to its continued effectiveness in various applications. This careful approach to maintenance reflects responsible firearm ownership and promotes safe handling practices for all users.