Understanding the Core Mechanism
The Bolt’s Role in the Remington 870
The roar of a shotgun, the satisfying ejection of a spent shell, and the anticipation of the next shot – these are experiences that define the legacy of the Remington 870. This shotgun, a stalwart in the world of firearms, has earned its reputation for ruggedness, reliability, and versatility. From law enforcement and military applications to home defense and hunting, the Remington 870 has proven itself a trusted companion for countless shooters. But even the most dependable firearms can benefit from a little attention, a touch of refinement. Today, we delve into the crucial world of the Remington 870 bolt, exploring how a Remington 870 bolt upgrade can take your shotgun’s performance to the next level, ensuring it remains a faithful and effective tool for years to come.
The heart of a smooth-functioning shotgun lies within its bolt assembly. This critical system is responsible for a complex dance of actions that occur with each pull of the trigger. Understanding its components and how they work together is the first step in appreciating the impact of a Remington 870 bolt upgrade. This article aims to provide you with the knowledge necessary to select the right upgrades, install them safely, and enhance the reliability and performance of your Remington 870.
The bolt assembly, often overlooked, is the unsung hero of your Remington 870. It’s a marvel of engineering that orchestrates a precise sequence of events with every shot fired. Its primary function is threefold: locking the action securely to contain the immense pressure generated by the firing cartridge, extracting the spent shell from the chamber, and finally, ejecting that shell to make way for a fresh round.
Let’s dissect the main parts. At the front sits the bolt head, the component that actually locks into the barrel extension, sealing the chamber. Embedded within the bolt head is the extractor, a small but crucial piece that grips the rim of the shell, enabling the bolt to pull it from the chamber after firing. Next, there’s the ejector, a spring-loaded component that forcefully kicks the spent shell out of the gun’s receiver. The firing pin, powered by its spring, strikes the primer of the shell, initiating ignition. Finally, the firing pin spring ensures the firing pin returns to its resting position after the strike.
Like any mechanical system, the bolt assembly is subject to wear and tear. Frequent use, harsh conditions, and the characteristics of the ammunition used can all affect its longevity and function. This can manifest in several ways, including extractor failure, ejector malfunctions, issues with the firing pin, and general degradation of overall performance. Recognizing these potential problems is vital to preemptive maintenance, the goal of a Remington 870 bolt upgrade.
Reasons for Improvement
Enhancing Your Shotgun’s Potential
Why undertake a Remington 870 bolt upgrade? The reasons are varied, but they all revolve around the core tenets of firearm ownership: reliability, durability, and, depending on the application, optimized performance.
First and foremost, a Remington 870 bolt upgrade can drastically improve reliability. Upgrading key components helps minimize malfunctions like failure to extract (where the spent shell gets stuck in the chamber), failure to eject (where the shell doesn’t leave the gun at all), or even light strikes that fail to ignite the primer. These issues can be critical in a defensive situation or frustrating while hunting.
Beyond reliability, a Remington 870 bolt upgrade can enhance durability. Replacing worn or damaged parts with higher-quality components prolongs the lifespan of the entire assembly. This is especially important for shooters who use their shotguns frequently or in demanding environments.
Then there’s the matter of tailored performance. For specific applications, such as tactical use or competitive shooting, a Remington 870 bolt upgrade can optimize the shotgun’s performance. This might involve smoother cycling, more positive ejection, and reduced wear on critical parts, all contributing to a more efficient and enjoyable shooting experience.
Finally, consider ammunition compatibility. Certain upgrades may enhance the shotgun’s ability to cycle and function reliably with different types of ammunition, including low-recoil loads or high-brass shells. This versatility allows shooters to use a wider variety of loads for different purposes.
Enhancement Options
Exploring the Upgrade Path
The good news is that numerous upgrade options are available to enhance the performance of your Remington 870 bolt assembly. Let’s explore these in detail.
Extractor Enhancement
The extractor is a component often subjected to significant stress. During extraction, the extractor must firmly grip the rim of the spent shell to pull it from the chamber against the pressure of the expanding gases. Extractor failure can be a common source of malfunctions, making an extractor upgrade a good starting point for a Remington 870 bolt upgrade.
You have choices here. You can replace the factory extractor with an aftermarket model. Look for extractors made from hardened steel, which offers superior durability and wear resistance. The installation process for a new extractor is generally straightforward, often involving nothing more than removing a retaining pin and sliding the new one in. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions. It might also be helpful to watch a video on the process. There are many reputable extractor manufacturers, and a little research will steer you in the right direction.
Ejector Adjustments
The ejector is another vital player, responsible for kicking the spent shell out of the receiver. While ejector failures are less common than extractor problems, they can still occur. An upgrade might involve replacing the factory ejector with a more robust or enhanced version. This is another area where a Remington 870 bolt upgrade can solve a recurring issue.
The ejector upgrade process also typically involves removing a pin or screw and swapping the parts. Again, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Firing Pin and Spring Improvement
The firing pin, and the spring that powers it, are critical for reliable ignition. A weak or worn firing pin spring can result in light strikes, where the firing pin doesn’t deliver enough force to ignite the primer consistently. This can be addressed with a new spring. You might also find firing pins that are made of more durable materials that resist breaking under strain.
Installing a new firing pin and spring is usually a simple process, often involving disassembling the bolt and replacing the old components. Be sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure proper alignment and installation.
Complete Bolt Assembly Replacements
For some shooters, the best solution might be to replace the entire bolt assembly. This involves purchasing a pre-assembled unit, often with enhanced components already installed. The advantages are convenience and a guaranteed improvement in performance if you upgrade to a unit with improved components.
Complete bolt assemblies are available from various manufacturers. When choosing, consider the fit, finish, and the quality of the components. Make sure the assembly is compatible with your specific Remington 870 model.
Installation and Upkeep
Making It Work for You
Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the success of any Remington 870 bolt upgrade.
Carefully read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions for each component. Gathering all the necessary tools before you begin the installation process. These usually include punches of various sizes, a small hammer, and a set of gunsmithing screwdrivers.
Be mindful of fitting and adjusting components. Some parts may require minor fitting to ensure proper function. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the installation, consult a qualified gunsmith.
Routine cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining the reliability of your bolt assembly. Clean the bolt after each shooting session. Remove any dirt, debris, and unburnt powder. Apply a high-quality gun lubricant to the moving parts to reduce friction and prevent corrosion.
Important Considerations Before Upgrading
Making Informed Decisions
Before embarking on a Remington 870 bolt upgrade, there are several important factors to consider.
First and foremost, ensure that any upgrade parts you select are compatible with your specific Remington 870 model. Minor variations exist between different models, so double-check the specifications before purchasing any components.
Decide whether you’re comfortable installing the parts yourself or whether you’ll need to consult a professional gunsmith. While many upgrades are relatively simple, some require specialized knowledge and tools.
Evaluate the cost versus the benefit of the upgrade. Determine whether the potential gains in reliability and performance justify the expense.
Always be aware of and comply with any local or federal legal requirements regarding firearm modifications. Some jurisdictions may have restrictions on certain upgrades.
Testing and Assessing the Results
Evaluating the Improvements
After completing your Remington 870 bolt upgrade, take it to the range and conduct thorough testing.
Test-fire your shotgun with a variety of ammunition types. Observe the functioning of the bolt assembly during extraction, ejection, and firing.
Assess whether any improvements in reliability are noticed. Look for a reduction in malfunctions and a more consistent performance.
Document any issues or problems that arise during testing. This will help you troubleshoot any potential problems or make adjustments as needed.
In Conclusion
The Pursuit of Excellence
The Remington 870 remains an iconic shotgun, its legacy forged in the fires of reliability and adaptability. A Remington 870 bolt upgrade is a worthwhile endeavor, and can provide a noticeable difference in the performance and reliability of your firearm. By understanding the function of the bolt assembly, carefully selecting upgrade components, and performing proper installation and maintenance, you can ensure that your Remington 870 continues to function flawlessly.
You now have a better understanding of the value of this type of upgrade, from enhancing reliability and durability to tailoring performance to your individual needs. The choices are available, giving shooters the ability to customize their firearms, so you can keep your trusty Remington 870 operating at its peak for years to come. By taking the steps outlined in this article, you can continue to enjoy the power and precision of your Remington 870, knowing that it will be ready when you need it most.
