Fixing an 870 Super Mag

[exveritas]

I recently purchased a Remington 870 Super Mag. Before I attached the barrel, I pumped the action a couple of times (I just couldn't resist hearing that "cha-chunk" sound). I now realize that was a mistake. The action got stuck in the forward position, and I couldn't even attach the barrel. So I started playing around with it, and somehow I magically released something, and the action was suddenly seperate from the rest of the gun. Now I can't get it back on. The action bar lock is stuck in place, and the hammer is just kind of moving around freely inside. I'm fairly new to firearms, and the manual apparently doesn't cover stupid mistakes, so I have no idea of how to fix the thing. :banghead:

Can someone give me some info about how to put it back together, or should I just take it to a shop?

[45Badger]

You may need to punch out the trigger group retaining pins, and remove the trigger group. Even if you don't need to, it will make it easier to see what you're working with.

There are "tabs" just inside the front of the receiver that retain the action bars. The "tabs" actually run almost all the way to rear of receiver, and are usually staked in place. These need to be gently lifted out (moved just a bit towards "center" of receiver, not top!) to allow bars to slide back in. I say gently because you do not want to get "rammy" and either bend the tabs or un-stake them.

You did not mention if you had dumped the bolt and bolt carrier out of the gun. If so, they can be set in place on top of action bars as you re-insert them into gun.

Just be patient. It's a cool tinker toy set. Good luck!

[exveritas]

By "tabs" I assume you are referring to what the manual calls "shell latches". According to the manual, they need to be pushed out (away from the center) to allow the fore-end to slide back in. Are you saying I should slightly pry them inward?

EDIT: Never mind. I got it. Thanks for the help!

[45Badger]

Yes, shell latches. I didn't have a manual in front of me for correct terms (thigga-ma-jiggieis, doo-hickies).

And I'm a backward spaz. Just took one of mine apart to confirm the "press inward or outward" question. It is outward. Sorry for the mis-direction. Note to self- "Don't try to give gun assembly instructions from memory!"

Glad it worked out.:)

Now take it all apart and put it back together again...........