Introduction
The Remington 870. The name itself evokes images of law enforcement, hunting trips, and home defense. A pump-action shotgun of legendary status, the Remington 870 is renowned for its reliability, durability, and ease of use. However, even the most robust firearm requires proper care and understanding to ensure its safe and effective operation. This is where the *Remington 870 Owners Manual* comes into play. This comprehensive guide provides you with the knowledge necessary to handle, maintain, and troubleshoot your firearm effectively and safely.
This article serves as a companion to the official Remington 870 Owners Manual, expanding on key information and providing practical advice. It is vital to remember that this article is *not* a substitute for the actual manual. Always refer to the official document provided by Remington for detailed instructions and safety information specific to your particular model. We’ll delve into the essentials of the manual, covering everything from initial setup to advanced maintenance, helping you become a responsible and informed owner of your Remington 870.
Locating and Understanding Your Remington 870 Owners Manual
Before you even think about handling your new shotgun, the first step is to locate and understand the **Remington 870 Owners Manual**. This document is your primary resource for safe and effective operation. The manual is usually included with the purchase of a new Remington 870. You should have received a physical copy when you bought your shotgun. If you bought a used firearm, the original manual might not be included.
If you do not have a physical copy, finding a digital version is relatively straightforward. The Remington Arms Company, the manufacturer of the Remington 870, provides manuals on their official website. Search for the manual specifically for your shotgun model, since there may be slight differences between different 870 variants. Another readily available place to find the manual is through other reputable online resources that focus on firearms. Always ensure that the manual you are accessing is from a credible source and is the appropriate version for your specific model.
Once you have the manual, take the time to read it thoroughly. Don’t just skim through it. The manual contains critical information about safe handling, ammunition compatibility, and maintenance procedures. It is your responsibility to understand this information before handling your Remington 870.
The manual is typically divided into several key sections, including: safety warnings, parts identification, operating instructions, cleaning and maintenance guidelines, and troubleshooting tips. Understanding these sections will allow you to handle your firearm with confidence and knowledge.
Safety First: Essential Safety Information
Gun safety is paramount. The **Remington 870 Owners Manual** dedicates a significant portion to safety, and this section must be thoroughly understood. Never compromise on safety. Always follow the gun safety rules, and practice them every time you handle your firearm.
One of the most fundamental rules is always to treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. These are the cornerstones of firearm safety and are repeated throughout the manual.
Another vital aspect of gun safety is the proper use of the safety mechanism on your Remington 870. The safety is a mechanical device designed to prevent the firearm from firing unintentionally. However, the safety mechanism is not a substitute for safe gun handling. It’s essential to know how the safety functions on your specific model and to regularly check its functionality. Always visually inspect the chamber to ensure it’s clear of ammunition before engaging the safety or storing the firearm.
Warning labels are prominently placed on the shotgun, and these must be understood. These labels highlight potential hazards and provide crucial information about safe operation.
Preventing accidental discharge is a non-negotiable aspect of firearm safety. Always unload the shotgun before handling it. Never load the firearm until you are at the shooting range or in a situation where you intend to use it. Store your firearm in a secure location, unloaded, and separate from ammunition. Never leave a loaded firearm unattended.
Eye and ear protection are critical for shooter safety. Always wear appropriate eye protection, such as shooting glasses, to protect your eyes from debris and potential injury. Wear ear protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, to protect your hearing from the loud noise generated by firing the shotgun.
Understanding Your Remington 870
The **Remington 870 Owners Manual** contains diagrams and descriptions of the various parts of your shotgun. Familiarizing yourself with these parts is crucial for understanding how the firearm functions and for performing proper maintenance.
Here’s a basic overview:
Receiver: The main body of the shotgun, housing the internal mechanisms.
Barrel: The tube through which the projectile travels.
Magazine Tube: The tube that holds extra shells for reloading.
Bolt: The mechanism that locks the cartridge in the chamber for firing.
Pump Handle (Forend): Used to cycle the action, loading and ejecting shells.
Stock: The part that is held against your shoulder.
Forend: The part of the gun in front of the action that is held by the user.
Understanding the mechanism of action is also essential. The Remington 870 is a pump-action shotgun. When you pump the forend, it cycles the action: ejecting the spent shell, cocking the hammer, and loading a fresh shell from the magazine tube into the chamber.
A critical element is the caliber and ammunition compatibility of your Remington 870. Using the wrong ammunition can be extremely dangerous, leading to serious injury or damage to the firearm. Only use ammunition that is specifically designed for your shotgun’s caliber. Consult your **Remington 870 Owners Manual** for the correct ammunition specifications.
If your 870 model has interchangeable chokes, the manual will explain how to install and use them. Choke tubes constrict the muzzle of the barrel, affecting the spread of the shot pattern. Understanding chokes is essential for optimizing your shotgun’s performance for different shooting applications.
Operation: How to Use Your Remington 870 Correctly
The **Remington 870 Owners Manual** details the proper steps for loading and unloading your shotgun.
Loading the shotgun involves several steps. First, make sure the action is open (pumped back). Then, insert shells into the magazine tube. The number of shells you can load will depend on the magazine tube capacity, which varies by model and modifications. You can also load a single shell directly into the chamber by retracting the action, inserting the shell, and closing the action.
Unloading the shotgun is even more critical. First, ensure the safety is on. Then, cycle the action to eject any shells from the chamber. Next, cycle the action again, pumping it to eject the rounds held in the magazine. Always visually inspect the chamber and magazine tube to confirm that they are completely empty.
Chambering a round correctly is vital for safe and reliable function. Make sure the action is fully closed after loading a shell into the chamber. If a shell fails to chamber, do not force it. Refer to the troubleshooting section of the manual for advice on how to solve this.
Firing the shotgun involves aiming and pulling the trigger. Ensure your target is in a safe direction, your finger is off the trigger until ready to fire, and you have a firm grip on the shotgun. Follow the steps in the **Remington 870 Owners Manual** for proper firing techniques.
While the manual provides basic shooting instructions, further guidance can be sought on advanced shooting techniques. The manual also covers fundamental issues like what to do when you experience failure to feed or failure to eject, and other common firearm problems.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Keeping Your 870 in Top Condition
Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for ensuring your Remington 870 functions reliably and safely. The **Remington 870 Owners Manual** provides detailed cleaning instructions.
The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use your shotgun. After each shooting session, it is recommended that you clean your firearm. Cleaning more often will help avoid corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
You’ll need specific tools and supplies for cleaning your Remington 870. These typically include a cleaning rod, brushes (various sizes for barrel and chamber), solvents designed for firearms, a lubricant specifically for firearms, cleaning patches, and a gun cleaning mat to protect your work surface.
The **Remington 870 Owners Manual** provides step-by-step cleaning instructions. The general process involves:
Disassembly: Following the manual’s instructions, disassemble your shotgun to access all parts for cleaning.
Cleaning the Barrel: Run a brush through the barrel from the chamber end to remove fouling. Then, use a patch soaked in solvent to clean the barrel thoroughly. Wipe the barrel dry.
Cleaning the Receiver and Bolt: Clean the receiver and bolt components with solvent and a brush, removing any dirt and grime.
Cleaning the Magazine Tube: Clean the magazine tube with a brush and solvent. Wipe the tube dry.
Lubrication: Lightly lubricate the moving parts of the shotgun. Too much lubrication can attract dirt and debris.
Reassembly: Reassemble the shotgun following the reverse order of disassembly.
Following the manufacturer’s instructions is key.
When storing your Remington 870, ensure it is unloaded and stored in a secure location, preferably a gun safe. The storage location should be inaccessible to unauthorized individuals, particularly children. The location must be dry and away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
The **Remington 870 Owners Manual** includes a troubleshooting section that addresses common malfunctions. Familiarizing yourself with these potential problems can help you diagnose and resolve issues quickly.
Common malfunctions include failure to feed, failure to eject, and failure to fire. Failure to feed occurs when a round fails to load from the magazine tube into the chamber. Failure to eject means the spent shell doesn’t extract. Failure to fire means the gun does not go off when you pull the trigger. The manual explains the possible causes of these problems.
Often, simple troubleshooting steps can resolve these issues. First, always check the obvious, like a clear chamber. If you experience a malfunction, inspect your firearm carefully to ensure it is not obstructed. Ensure the ammunition is of the correct type and in good condition. Clean the firearm thoroughly, as debris can cause malfunctions.
If you are unable to diagnose or fix a malfunction, it is essential to seek professional gunsmith assistance. Do not attempt to repair a firearm if you are not trained or qualified to do so.
Accessories and Customization
The **Remington 870 Owners Manual** primarily focuses on the basic functionality of the shotgun, so the section on accessories is often minimal. Many accessories are available for customizing your Remington 870, such as different stocks and forends, sights, and shell carriers.
Before modifying your firearm, it is essential to consider the potential impact on its safety and reliability. Make sure the modification is compatible with your model.
Be aware of any legal restrictions regarding firearm modifications in your location. Some modifications may be illegal or require special permits.
Legal Considerations and Responsibilities
Owning a firearm comes with legal responsibilities. You are responsible for knowing and adhering to all federal, state, and local laws regarding firearm ownership and use. The **Remington 870 Owners Manual** does not provide legal advice, but it does emphasize the importance of following the law.
You are also responsible for the safe storage of your firearm. You must take steps to prevent your firearm from falling into the wrong hands.
Responsible gun ownership includes regularly practicing safe gun handling techniques, storing your firearm securely, and being familiar with the laws in your area. Gun safety courses are highly recommended.
Conclusion
The **Remington 870 Owners Manual** is an indispensable resource for all Remington 870 owners. By taking the time to read and understand this manual, you are investing in your safety and the longevity of your firearm.
This article provides a helpful overview, but the official manual should be the basis of your understanding. Remember the importance of following all safety rules and handling your firearm responsibly.
For additional information, consult the Remington website, seek advice from a qualified gunsmith, or consider taking a firearms training course. Responsible gun ownership is a commitment to safety, knowledge, and respect for firearms. Always prioritize safety, and enjoy your Remington 870 responsibly.
