The Remington 870 shotgun, a venerable workhorse, relies on a robust magazine spring for reliable function. A worn or broken magazine spring can lead to feeding issues, jams, and ultimately, a malfunctioning firearm. This comprehensive guide will cover troubleshooting problems related to your Remington 870's magazine spring, replacing the spring, and exploring potential upgrades for enhanced performance.
Identifying Problems with Your Remington 870 Magazine Spring
Before jumping into repairs, accurately diagnosing the problem is crucial. Several symptoms point towards a faulty magazine spring:
- Feeding Issues: The most common symptom is the shotgun failing to feed shells smoothly from the magazine tube. Shells may jam, fail to chamber, or feed at an inconsistent rate.
- Weak Shell Ejection: A weak spring might not provide enough force to reliably eject spent shells.
- Loose Shells in the Magazine: Shells might rattle loosely within the magazine tube, indicating insufficient spring tension.
- Visible Spring Damage: Inspect the magazine spring for obvious signs of wear, such as kinks, bends, or breakage. Rust or significant corrosion can also weaken the spring.
Replacing Your Remington 870 Magazine Spring: A Step-by-Step Guide
Replacing the magazine spring is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail. Always prioritize safety: Unloaded your shotgun and visually and physically inspect to ensure it is clear of any ammunition before beginning any maintenance.
Tools You'll Need:
- A new Remington 870 magazine spring (ensure you purchase the correct spring for your specific model)
- A shotgun cleaning rod or similar tool to assist with spring compression
- A punch or similar tool (optional, for stubborn magazine tube caps)
- Possibly a small flat-head screwdriver
Steps:
- Remove the Magazine Cap: Carefully remove the magazine cap at the end of the magazine tube. This may require some force; a punch can help if needed.
- Compress the Spring: Use a cleaning rod or similar tool to carefully compress the existing spring. This will allow you to remove the follower.
- Remove the Follower: Once the spring is sufficiently compressed, remove the follower. This is the component that pushes shells forward.
- Install the New Spring and Follower: Carefully install the new magazine spring and follower into the magazine tube. Ensure the spring is properly seated and the follower is correctly positioned.
- Reassemble: Replace the magazine cap, ensuring it's securely tightened.
Upgrading Your Remington 870 Magazine Spring
While the factory spring functions adequately, aftermarket springs offer potential benefits:
- Increased Spring Tension: Some aftermarket springs provide increased tension, leading to more reliable feeding, especially with heavier loads or in adverse conditions.
- Improved Durability: High-quality aftermarket springs may be constructed from more durable materials, offering extended lifespan.
Important Note: When considering upgrades, always ensure the aftermarket spring is compatible with your specific Remington 870 model. Using an incorrect spring can negatively impact the firearm's function and safety. Always research thoroughly before purchasing any aftermarket parts.
Conclusion
A properly functioning magazine spring is essential for the reliable operation of your Remington 870. By understanding the signs of a faulty spring, you can proactively address potential issues and maintain your shotgun’s peak performance. Regular inspection and timely replacement ensure your firearm remains reliable and safe for years to come. Remember to always handle firearms safely and consult with a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about any aspect of this process.
