New 870 Express Problem: Right Shell Latch

[Devonai]

So I picked up a brand new Remington 870 Express Magnum (18" bead, parked, synthetic), and I have a small problem. The right side shell latch fails to release a round from the mag tube about 30% of the time when working the action. I have to reach in and press the latch down manually to pop the round onto the elevator.

This is only occuring with live rounds cycled through manually; the weapon cycles fine with snap caps. This leads me to believe that the problem has something to do with the slide release lever. I haven't had a chance to try live fire yet.

My Wingmaster (and the Express I used to own) never did this. Has anyone else had this problem? How did you address it? I'm hoping that it'll work itself out as I break in the weapon.



Edit: Whoops, I didn't see this thread. My apologies if some consider my question redundant.

 

[9mmMike]

If it's brand new then I'd take it back.

It sounds like a burr in the channel behind the latch or a problem with the slide rail. The latch itself could be out of spec or installed incorrectly.
Unless you can fix it with minimum effort, since it's new, I'd return it.
No matter what it is, it is unacceptable to have such a problem with a new gun. I would return/exchange it and write Big Green a nasty-gram.
Better yet, get your money back and buy an older used 870.
Did I mention taking it back?

Mike

 

[Fred Fuller]

What Mike said.

Likely just a burr causing problems with the shell stop, but could be something else- the right hand action bar notch might not be engaging the shell stop properly or some such. Take it back as is right now, no need to self-diagnose or attempt repair, let them figger it out based on a clear (written) descripton of the problem from you.

lpl/nc

 

[mnrivrat]

The reason it does it with live rounds and not snap caps is the weight of the live rounds and the pressure difference that comes to bear on the shell latch.

What is needed is an adjustment or replacement of the latch.

 

[9mmMike]

I agree and seeing as how it's an Express, I'd bet that the channel the latch sits in has a burr or flashing. They do such a crappy job of finishing these new guns, especially the insides.
But.....since it's new, I would insist that "they" make it right.
Mike