The Remington 870 is a legendary pump-action shotgun, renowned for its reliability and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a home defender, or a first-time shooter, knowing how to properly load your Remington 870 is crucial for safety and effective operation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, covering various loading techniques and addressing common questions.
Understanding Your Remington 870's Loading Mechanism
Before diving into the loading process, it's essential to understand the basic mechanics of your Remington 870. This pump-action shotgun utilizes a simple yet effective system:
- The Magazine Tube: This tube, located beneath the barrel, holds the shotgun shells. The capacity varies depending on the model and barrel length.
- The Action Bar: This is the sliding mechanism you pump to load and eject shells. Moving it forward chambers a round, while moving it rearward ejects a spent shell.
- The Bolt: This part locks the action and ensures safe firing. It interacts directly with the shell in the chamber.
Understanding these key components will make the loading process much clearer. Remember: Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded, even if you believe it is not.
Loading Your Remington 870: A Step-by-Step Guide
The following steps detail how to load a Remington 870 with shells. Always ensure the firearm is pointed in a safe direction, away from yourself and others.
Step 1: Check That the Gun is Unloaded
This is the most crucial step. Visually and physically inspect the chamber and magazine tube to confirm no shells are present. Open the action (pull the action bar fully rearward) to visually inspect the chamber. Then, slowly work the action bar back and forth a few times to ensure nothing remains inside.
Step 2: Insert Shells into the Magazine Tube
Insert the shotgun shells, one by one, into the magazine tube. The crimped end of the shell should always face forward, towards the muzzle. Avoid forcing the shells—they should slide smoothly into place.
Step 3: Chamber a Round (Load a Shell into the Chamber)
Once shells are in the magazine tube, work the action bar (pump) fully rearward and then forward. This process removes any lingering debris, cocks the hammer (depending on model), and chambers a shell from the magazine tube into the firing position. You should feel a distinct click as the shell is chambered.
Step 4: Verify the Shell is Chambered
Carefully and visually check to ensure a round is correctly chambered. Do not just assume. Then, re-check the magazine to see how many rounds remain.
Step 5: Safe Handling and Storage
After loading, always keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction. When storing the firearm, ensure it’s unloaded and properly secured in a gun safe or other appropriate storage.
Loading Variations and Considerations
-
Loading with the Action Open: Some prefer to insert shells into the magazine with the action fully open. This is a safe and effective method that can be slightly faster for experienced users. However, beginners should stick to the sequential method above.
-
Different Shell Types: The Remington 870 can handle a variety of shells. Ensure the shells you use are appropriate for your firearm. Always check the owner’s manual for recommendations.
-
Troubleshooting: If you encounter difficulty loading, check that you are using the correct type and size of shells, and that you are not forcing them into the magazine. If the problem persists, consult your owner's manual or a qualified gunsmith.
Safety First: A Final Word
Loading a firearm is a serious responsibility. Always adhere to the four rules of gun safety:
- Treat every firearm as if it were loaded.
- Never point a firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot.
- Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
- Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can confidently and safely load your Remington 870. Remember, practice makes perfect. Regularly practice loading and unloading your shotgun in a controlled environment to build proficiency and reinforce safe gun handling techniques.