The Remington 870 shotgun, a legendary firearm known for its reliability and versatility, relies on a well-designed trigger assembly for its functionality. Understanding the intricacies of this assembly is crucial for safe operation, maintenance, and potential upgrades. This in-depth guide will explore the Remington 870 trigger assembly, covering its components, function, common issues, and troubleshooting steps. We'll delve into the nuances of this vital part, ensuring you have the knowledge to keep your 870 running smoothly.
Understanding the Remington 870 Trigger Mechanism
The Remington 870's trigger mechanism is a relatively simple yet robust design. Its simplicity contributes to the shotgun's legendary reliability, but understanding its workings is essential for proper maintenance and repair. The core components work together in a precise sequence to fire the shotgun safely and effectively.
Key Components of the Remington 870 Trigger Assembly
- Trigger: This is the component you physically pull to initiate the firing sequence.
- Hammer: This strikes the firing pin, igniting the primer in the shotgun shell.
- Sear: This is a crucial safety mechanism that holds the hammer in the cocked position until the trigger is pulled.
- Disconnector: This prevents the gun from firing automatically after the trigger is released.
- Trigger Return Spring: This spring returns the trigger to its original position after firing.
- Hammer Spring: This powerful spring cocks the hammer and provides the force for the hammer to strike the firing pin.
- Firing Pin: This component, when struck by the hammer, ignites the primer of the shotgun shell.
- Safety: This prevents accidental firing of the shotgun.
How the Remington 870 Trigger Assembly Works
- Cocking the Hammer: When the slide is cycled (pump-action), the hammer is cocked by interacting with the hammer spring and sear. The hammer is held in place by the sear.
- Pulling the Trigger: Pulling the trigger moves the trigger bar, disengaging the sear from the hammer.
- Hammer Release: The hammer, under the force of the hammer spring, strikes the firing pin.
- Firing Pin Impact: The firing pin strikes the primer in the shotgun shell, initiating the firing sequence.
- Trigger Reset: The disconnector ensures that the hammer cannot fire again until the slide is fully cycled, resetting the trigger mechanism.
Common Issues with Remington 870 Trigger Assemblies
While known for its ruggedness, the Remington 870 trigger assembly can encounter issues over time, particularly with heavy use or improper maintenance. Understanding these potential problems can save you time and frustration.
1. Trigger Pull Issues
- Heavy Trigger Pull: This can be due to worn or dirty parts, a weak trigger return spring, or other mechanical issues.
- Trigger Creep: This is a gradual movement of the trigger before the gun fires, indicating potential wear or a problem with the sear engagement.
- Trigger Sluggishness: This can result from dirt, grime, or lack of lubrication.
2. Misfires
Misfires can be caused by several factors, including:
- Improperly functioning firing pin: A damaged or bent firing pin can fail to ignite the primer.
- Weak hammer spring: A weak spring might not provide sufficient force to reliably ignite the primer.
- Ammunition Issues: Using faulty or old ammunition is a common cause of misfires.
3. Safety Issues
- Safety malfunction: A broken or malfunctioning safety can compromise the firearm's safety.
- Accidental Discharge: This is incredibly dangerous and can indicate a serious mechanical issue requiring immediate professional attention.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and lubrication are vital for maintaining a smooth and reliable trigger assembly.
Cleaning and Lubrication
- Disassemble the Trigger Assembly (with caution and safety precautions): Consult your owner’s manual before attempting any disassembly.
- Clean all parts thoroughly: Use a suitable gun cleaning solvent and brush to remove dirt, grime, and residue.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply a light coat of gun oil to all moving parts to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.
- Reassemble the Trigger Assembly: Follow the proper reassembly procedure, paying attention to the correct orientation of all parts.
Addressing Specific Problems
If you encounter specific problems, such as a heavy trigger pull or misfires, you may need to replace worn or broken parts. This should only be done by a qualified gunsmith.
Upgrading the Remington 870 Trigger Assembly
Many aftermarket parts are available to upgrade the Remington 870's trigger assembly. These upgrades can improve the trigger pull, reduce creep, and enhance overall performance. However, improper installation can lead to malfunctions or safety issues. It's recommended to seek professional assistance if considering such upgrades.
Disclaimer: Working on firearms requires expertise and caution. Always prioritize safety and consult a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about any repair or modification. Improper handling of firearms can lead to serious injury or death. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.