Prioritizing Safety First
Unload the Firearm
This is the most critical step. Before you do anything, visually inspect the chamber and magazine to confirm that the shotgun is completely unloaded. Open the action fully. There should be no ammunition in the chamber or magazine tube.
Visual Inspection
After you’ve opened the action, visually inspect both the chamber and the magazine tube. Look for any live rounds or spent casings. Use a flashlight if necessary.
Physical Check
Even after visual confirmation, it’s wise to conduct a physical check. Run your finger inside the chamber (after removing your hand from any possible point of contact with the trigger, for example, with your finger outside the trigger guard) to ensure nothing is present.
Point in a Safe Direction
Always point the muzzle of the shotgun in a safe direction. This means pointing it at a backstop that can safely contain any accidental discharge, such as a thick wall or a clear space away from other people.
Wear Safety Glasses
Eye protection is non-negotiable. Debris can fly, and you do not want a piece of metal or rust to get into your eye.
Work in a Well-Lit Area
Good lighting is crucial for seeing what you are doing and ensuring you can clearly identify all the components.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Avoid loose clothing or anything that could potentially get caught in the action of the shotgun.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Successfully removing the forend on your Remington 870 is easy with the right tools. Thankfully, the process is not complicated, and the required items are readily available.
Cleaning Rod (Optional)
A cleaning rod can be incredibly useful if the forend is stuck or if you encounter resistance. It can help clear any obstruction.
Screwdriver
You’ll need a flathead screwdriver to remove the forend screw. Ensure the screwdriver’s size is a perfect fit for the screw. The wrong size can damage the screw head.
Penetrating Oil (Optional but recommended)
Sometimes, the forend screw can be stubborn and difficult to remove, and especially on older models. Penetrating oil, like PB Blaster or Kroil, can help loosen a stuck screw.
Soft Cloth or Rags
Use a clean cloth to wipe up any oil and clean components.
Replacement Forend (Optional)
If you’re replacing the forend, have the new one readily available.
Vice and Gun Block or Similar (Optional, but helpful)
While not absolutely necessary, a vice and gun block can help secure the receiver, making it easier to work. If you don’t have a gun block, you can use a padded surface.
The Step-by-Step Forend Removal Process
Now that you have the necessary tools and have taken all the safety precautions, you’re ready to begin the process of removing the forend.
Preparation
The first step, once again, is to absolutely, positively confirm the firearm is unloaded. Reiterate the safety checks. Do not proceed until you are 100% certain the gun is empty.
You may need to remove the barrel. This can sometimes be the case depending on the type of action or task. The barrel is usually attached with a magazine tube cap. Removing the barrel can make manipulating the action much simpler, and it provides better access to the magazine tube.
For stability, consider securing the receiver in a vise or using a gun block. This will free up your hands and keep the firearm from moving as you work. This can often be the most helpful step if you are replacing the forend.
Finding and Loosening the Forend Screw
Locate the forend screw. It is typically positioned under the forend, directly in front of the receiver. It’s usually a slotted head screw.
Take your flathead screwdriver, make certain the screwdriver fits in the screw head, and carefully begin to loosen the screw. Apply gentle but firm pressure. Be careful not to strip the screw head.
If the screw resists, try a few gentle taps with a hammer on the screwdriver handle. Be careful. If it still resists, apply penetrating oil. Let it sit for about fifteen minutes, then try loosening the screw again.
Removing the Forend from the Magazine Tube
Once the screw is loose, remove it entirely. Set it aside in a safe place where you won’t lose it.
Grip the forend firmly.
You may need to work the pump action a bit to free the forend. The most common removal motion is to grasp the forend and pull it forward, towards the muzzle. The forend will slide off the magazine tube. Be mindful of the action bars; they should slide freely within the forend’s recesses. You might need to wiggle the forend slightly from side to side as you pull forward.
As you remove the forend, keep an eye on the action bars to make sure they don’t get caught.
Cleaning the Magazine Tube (Optional, but Recommended)
With the forend removed, this is an excellent time to clean the magazine tube. This helps maintain smooth action and prevents corrosion.
Wipe the magazine tube with a clean cloth. You can use a solvent specifically designed for firearms, if desired.
Installing a New Forend
Whether you’re replacing a broken forend or upgrading to a new one, here are the steps to follow to complete the reassembly process.
Reverse the Process
If you are replacing the forend, have the new one ready.
Now that you’ve removed the old forend, slide the new forend onto the magazine tube, making sure that the action bars line up properly with their slots inside the forend.
Seat the forend. Ensure the action bars are positioned correctly and that the forend sits flush against the receiver.
Reinstall the forend screw. Tighten the screw securely, but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the forend.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
Forend Stuck
If the forend is stuck, double-check for the obvious: Is the screw fully removed? Are the action bars aligned correctly? Sometimes, the forend might be held in place by debris or a buildup of gunk on the magazine tube. Try gently tapping the forend with a rubber mallet, while pulling forward. If necessary, use the cleaning rod to gently try to push the forend forward from the muzzle end.
Screw Won’t Budge
If the forend screw refuses to budge, again, the penetrating oil is your friend. Let it sit for a while, reapply if needed, and try again. Make certain the screwdriver is the right size for the screw head, and try tapping it with a small hammer.
Action Feels Stiff
After you’ve reassembled the forend, if the action feels stiff or sluggish, make sure the action bars are correctly seated within the forend and are not bent or damaged. Check for any binding or interference. Sometimes the forend screw is too tight. Try slightly loosening it. Also, check that you properly aligned the action bars with the inside of the forend.
Conclusion
Removing the forend from your Remington 870 is a straightforward process when approached with care and the right knowledge. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can safely and confidently remove the forend for cleaning, maintenance, or upgrades. Remember, the key is to prioritize safety at every step and to be patient. Taking your time and ensuring you understand each step will prevent any potential issues. Now, you’re equipped with the skills to perform this essential task.
Understanding the Importance of Remington 870 Maintenance
Performing tasks like the removal and reinstallation of a Remington 870 forend is more than just a practical skill. It’s a commitment to the long-term health and performance of your firearm. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for:
Reliability
A well-maintained Remington 870 is far more likely to function flawlessly when you need it most.
Accuracy
Clean components contribute to consistent shot placement.
Longevity
Regular maintenance helps to prevent premature wear and tear, extending the lifespan of your shotgun.
Safety
Cleaning helps to reduce the potential for malfunctions that could compromise safety.
Maintaining Your Remington 870 is an Investment
Beyond simply performing the steps to remove the Remington 870 forend, understanding how to maintain your shotgun is vital. The Remington 870 is more than just a collection of parts; it’s an investment. Maintaining it through cleaning and maintenance, including forend removal when required, protects that investment and gives you peace of mind. The Remington 870 is a legendary shotgun, and with proper care and the knowledge you’ve gained, you can keep it performing its best for years to come.
