Safety First, Always
Before embarking on the cleaning process, the most crucial step is prioritizing safety. Firearms are inherently dangerous, and carelessness can lead to severe injury or even death. Always adhere to the fundamental rules of gun safety without exception.
The first, and arguably most important, rule is to always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Never allow the muzzle to point at anything you are not willing to destroy.
Second, treat every gun as if it is loaded, even if you believe it to be unloaded. Always assume a loaded condition.
Third, keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Keep your finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until you have positively identified your target, and have made a conscious decision to fire.
Fourth, and finally, be certain of your target and what is beyond it. Ensure you are aware of your surroundings and that there are no individuals or objects in the line of fire that could be harmed by a negligent shot.
Once you’ve internalized these principles, it’s time to verify that your Remington 1100 is indeed unloaded. This is achieved by following these steps:
1. Open the action: Depress the bolt release button (usually located on the side of the receiver) and pull the bolt fully to the rear.
2. Visually inspect the chamber: Carefully examine the chamber to ensure there is no ammunition present. You can use your finger to feel if a shell is present.
3. Inspect the magazine: Ensure the magazine is empty by visually inspecting and/or using a tool.
4. Remove the barrel: After the bolt is open, it may be necessary to remove the barrel to double-check the chamber and magazine.
5. Check for obstructions: Ensure the barrel and receiver are free from obstructions.
6. Close the action: After confirming it’s unloaded, carefully close the action.
If you’re uncertain about any of these steps, consult the Remington 1100 owner’s manual or seek guidance from a qualified gunsmith.
For this cleaning procedure, always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from any debris or cleaning solution that might be flung back during the process. Gloves are also recommended to protect your hands from solvents and oils and to maintain a good grip on the firearm. Working in a well-ventilated area is crucial to prevent the inhalation of fumes from the cleaning solvents.
Essential Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Having the right tools and supplies ready before you begin will make the cleaning process much more efficient and enjoyable. Here’s a list of what you’ll require:
Cleaning Rod with Attachments: A sturdy cleaning rod, preferably a multi-piece rod for easier storage, and a selection of attachments are essential. You’ll need a jag to hold cleaning patches, a bore brush of the correct gauge for your Remington 1100’s bore (typically 12 gauge), and possibly a nylon brush for general cleaning.
Gun Cleaning Solvent or Degreaser: A quality gun cleaning solvent is designed to dissolve carbon, powder residue, and other contaminants. Choose a solvent specifically formulated for firearms.
Gun Oil or Lubricant: After cleaning, you’ll need a good gun oil or lubricant to protect the metal parts from corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
Cleaning Patches: You’ll need plenty of cleaning patches. Cotton patches designed for gun cleaning are readily available.
Bore Brush: The correct gauge bore brush is necessary to remove fouling from the barrel.
Nylon Brush: A nylon brush is excellent for scrubbing the exterior of parts and areas that don’t require the abrasive action of a steel brush.
Screwdrivers (If Needed): You may need a few screwdrivers for disassembly, although the Remington 1100 is primarily assembled with pins and the bolt action system.
Cleaning Mat or Work Surface: A cleaning mat or a clean, protected work surface is highly recommended. This will protect your firearm from scratches and prevent the transfer of cleaning solutions to your workspace.
Field Stripping Your Remington 1100
Understanding how to field strip your Remington 1100 is a fundamental part of the cleaning process. Field stripping involves disassembling the firearm into its primary components for cleaning and maintenance. It’s a relatively straightforward process on the 1100:
First, ensure the firearm is unloaded, as described above.
To begin, remove the fore-end. Simply press the fore-end cap retainer or nut (it may have a button or lever) and slide the fore-end forward and off of the barrel.
Next, remove the barrel. Pull back on the charging handle. Then, you can typically remove the barrel by simply pulling it forward and away from the receiver.
The bolt and bolt carrier can be removed as a single unit. Holding the bolt handle to the rear, pull the action bar rearward, which should come out, allowing the bolt carrier to slide out of the receiver.
That completes the basic field stripping. It is important to remember the order of these parts as they go in and out to put it back together correctly.
Cleaning the Barrel – The Heart of the Matter
The barrel is the most critical component of your Remington 1100, as it’s directly responsible for the projectile’s accuracy. Cleaning the barrel should be done every time you clean the gun.
First, with the barrel separated from the receiver, attach a jag to your cleaning rod. Thread a cleaning patch of appropriate size onto the jag.
Next, saturate the patch with gun cleaning solvent. Insert the patch through the chamber end of the barrel and push it through the bore to the muzzle. It is important to start from the chamber and to insert the rod at a steady angle to protect the muzzle from damage.
Repeat this process with fresh, solvent-soaked patches until the patches come out relatively clean. You’ll likely see a lot of black residue on the first few passes.
Next, switch to the bore brush. Attach the bore brush to your cleaning rod and generously saturate it with solvent.
Insert the bore brush into the chamber end of the barrel and scrub the bore thoroughly with back-and-forth motions. Work the brush the full length of the bore. Go slow, take your time, and pay extra attention to areas of heavier fouling.
After scrubbing, remove the bore brush and switch back to cleaning patches. Run clean patches through the bore until they emerge completely clean.
Finally, apply a light coat of gun oil to a clean patch and pass it through the bore. This will protect the bore from corrosion.
Cleaning the Bolt and Bolt Carrier: Ensuring Reliable Cycling
The bolt and bolt carrier are crucial for the 1100’s semi-automatic function. These parts must be clean and properly lubricated for the gun to cycle smoothly and reliably.
Start by applying gun cleaning solvent to the bolt and bolt carrier.
Use a nylon brush to scrub all surfaces of the bolt and bolt carrier, paying attention to any areas where carbon or other debris has accumulated. Focus on the locking lugs, the extractor, and the ejector.
If necessary, use a pick or scraper to remove stubborn carbon buildup. Be very careful not to scratch or damage the metal.
Dry the bolt and bolt carrier with clean patches. Ensure all surfaces are free of solvent.
Apply a light coat of gun oil to the bolt and bolt carrier. Pay particular attention to the sliding surfaces and any pivot points. Avoid using excessive oil, as this can attract dirt and lead to malfunctions.
Maintaining the Receiver and Other Vital Components
The receiver houses the operating mechanisms of your shotgun, so it requires careful attention.
Wipe down the receiver inside and out with solvent, removing any loose debris or old grease. A nylon brush can be very effective.
For the gas system components, clean the gas piston and gas cylinder. The gas piston typically sits inside the gas cylinder. Inspect both parts and clean them thoroughly to ensure they function properly.
Cleaning the trigger assembly area is also important. Inspect it for any build-up of grime or old lubricant and clean those areas with solvent and brushes.
Dry the receiver and all of its cleaned components, then lightly oil the moving parts.
Reassembly: Putting It All Back Together
Once all the components are thoroughly cleaned and lubricated, it’s time to reassemble your Remington 1100. Following the reverse order of the disassembly process is key.
Carefully insert the bolt carrier and bolt into the receiver, aligning them correctly.
Slide the action bar back into place, ensuring it is properly seated.
Insert the barrel back into the receiver. Make sure the barrel locks securely.
Slide the fore-end back onto the barrel and secure it.
After reassembly, it’s crucial to check the function of the shotgun.
Cycle the action manually several times, making sure it operates smoothly.
Perform a safety check. Pull the charging handle to the rear and check that the extractor and ejection operate correctly.
Make sure the safety is fully engaged and disengaged.
Finally, always reconfirm that the shotgun is unloaded after reassembly, with the barrel pointed in a safe direction.
Maintenance Recommendations and General Tips
The frequency with which you need to How To Clean Remington 1100 will depend on how often you use the gun and the type of ammunition you are using. Generally, it’s a good idea to clean your Remington 1100 after every shooting session. However, if you are using high-volume ammunition or are shooting in dusty conditions, you may need to clean it more frequently.
If you encounter any issues, such as failure to extract, excessive fouling, or other malfunctions, don’t hesitate to consult the Remington 1100 owner’s manual or seek advice from a professional gunsmith.
It is important to use only the correct size and type of cleaning materials. Using too big of a brush, or a wrong type of solvent can cause damage to your firearm.
Remember to replace any worn or damaged parts promptly. The Remington 1100 is a reliable shotgun, but over time, parts can wear out.
Store your Remington 1100 in a dry, secure location, away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
Conclusion: The Path to a Well-Maintained Remington 1100
Cleaning your Remington 1100 is a fundamental aspect of gun ownership, directly impacting its performance, longevity, and your safety. By diligently following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to maintain your shotgun and keep it functioning reliably for years to come. Taking the time to How To Clean Remington 1100 ensures a safe and enjoyable shooting experience. Remember always to prioritize safety, use the correct tools and supplies, and regularly clean and lubricate your firearm. If you’re ever unsure about any aspect of cleaning or maintenance, consult the Remington 1100 owner’s manual or seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith. Consistent care is the key to enjoying your Remington 1100 for many years to come. Maintaining your Remington 1100 properly helps preserve its value as well!
