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 competitive shooter, knowing how to properly load your Remington 870 is crucial for safety and effective operation. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough, covering safety precautions and addressing common questions.
Safety First: Essential Precautions Before Handling Any Firearm
Before we delve into the loading process, let's emphasize the paramount importance of firearm safety. Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. This isn't just a suggestion; it's a fundamental rule that can save lives.
Here are some critical safety precautions:
- Point the muzzle in a safe direction: This is the most crucial rule. Never point your shotgun at anything you don't intend to shoot.
- Keep your finger off the trigger: Until you're ready to fire, your finger should remain outside the trigger guard.
- Be sure of your target and what's beyond it: Understand where your shot will go and what might be in its path.
- Unload your firearm when not in use: Properly unload and store your shotgun when you're finished shooting or transporting it.
- Know your firearm: Familiarize yourself with its operation and safety features before handling it. This includes understanding how to load, unload, and clear malfunctions.
- Wear appropriate eye and ear protection: Always use safety glasses or shooting glasses and hearing protection when handling firearms.
Loading Your Remington 870: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we've covered safety, let's proceed to loading your Remington 870:
1. Check the Chamber: Before doing anything else, visually and physically inspect the chamber to ensure it's empty. Open the action (pump the slide fully rearward) and visually confirm no shell is present.
2. Insert the First Shell: With the action open, carefully insert a shell into the loading port (the opening at the bottom of the receiver). Make sure it's fully seated; you should feel and hear a distinct "click" as it chambers.
3. Close the Action: Slowly and deliberately pump the slide forward to close the action. This chambers the round and cocks the hammer (depending on your model and if the safety is disengaged).
4. Load Additional Shells (Tube Loading): The Remington 870's tube magazine holds multiple shells. Load additional shells into the magazine tube through the loading port. Again, ensure each shell is seated properly. The number of shells you can fit depends on the barrel length and configuration (generally 5 to 8 rounds in standard configurations).
5. Check the Rounds: After loading, it’s crucial to visually check again to ensure all shells are properly loaded and seated.
6. Engage the Safety (if applicable): If your Remington 870 has a safety, ensure it's engaged until you are ready to fire.
Unloading Your Remington 870: A Safe Procedure
Unloading is equally important and should always be done carefully, following these steps:
- Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
- Engage the safety (if applicable).
- Open the action: Pump the slide fully rearward.
- Remove all shells: Carefully remove the shell(s) from the chamber and magazine tube.
- Visually and physically check: Ensure the chamber and magazine tube are completely empty.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
While the Remington 870 is a reliable shotgun, sometimes issues can arise. If you encounter difficulties, always refer to your owner's manual. However, some common issues include shells not feeding smoothly or jamming. These usually stem from improper loading, using incorrect ammunition, or needing cleaning and lubrication.
Conclusion: Safe and Responsible Ownership
Loading and unloading a firearm correctly is a fundamental skill for any responsible gun owner. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you'll ensure the safe and efficient operation of your Remington 870. Remember, responsible gun ownership includes regular maintenance, proper storage, and continued training. Always consult your owner's manual and seek professional instruction if needed.
