Many shotgun owners find themselves needing a forend wrench, particularly for Remington 870 shotguns. These wrenches can be surprisingly expensive, leading many to explore DIY solutions. This guide will walk you through creating your own effective and reliable homemade 870 forend wrench using readily available materials. We'll cover different methods, highlighting their pros and cons, so you can choose the best approach for your skill level and tools.
Why Make Your Own 870 Forend Wrench?
Before diving into the construction, let's address the "why." While commercially available forend wrenches are readily available, making your own offers several advantages:
- Cost Savings: Store-bought wrenches can be surprisingly costly. Making your own significantly reduces the expense.
- Customization: You can tailor the wrench to your specific needs, ensuring a perfect fit for your 870.
- Accessibility: This is especially beneficial if you live in a remote area with limited access to gun shops or online retailers.
- DIY Satisfaction: There's a certain satisfaction in crafting a tool yourself and knowing it's built to last.
Methods for Crafting Your Homemade 870 Forend Wrench
There are several approaches to crafting a functional 870 forend wrench. Here are two popular methods:
Method 1: Utilizing a Socket and Bolt
This is perhaps the simplest and most accessible method, requiring minimal tools and skills.
Materials:
- A deep-well socket that snugly fits the forend nut on your Remington 870. (This is the most crucial part – ensure a proper fit.)
- A long bolt with a head that fits inside the socket.
- A nut that fits the bolt.
Instructions:
- Find the Right Socket: This is the most critical step. Carefully measure the forend nut to find a socket that provides a tight, secure fit. A slightly loose fit will render the wrench useless.
- Assemble the Wrench: Insert the bolt into the socket. Secure the nut onto the bolt. The bolt head acts as a handle, providing leverage.
- Test and Adjust: Try the wrench on the forend nut. If it's too loose, consider adding washers between the socket and nut for a tighter fit.
Pros: Simple, inexpensive, readily available materials. Cons: May require some trial and error to achieve the perfect fit. The handle might be somewhat uncomfortable without further modifications.
Method 2: Fabricating a Wrench from Steel
This method involves more fabrication but yields a more robust and comfortable wrench.
Materials:
- A piece of sturdy steel (thickness will depend on the size of your chosen wrench design).
- A grinder with cutting and sanding discs.
- A welding machine (optional, for added strength).
- A file or Dremel tool for refining the shape.
Instructions:
- Design and Cut: Sketch your desired wrench shape on the steel. The design should accurately mirror the shape and size of your Remington 870's forend nut. Precise cutting is vital.
- Shape and Refine: Use a grinder to carefully cut and shape the steel according to your design. Use a file or Dremel for finer details and smoothing out rough edges.
- (Optional) Welding: For added strength and durability, weld the two sides of the wrench together.
- Test and Adjust: Test your homemade wrench on the forend nut. Any adjustments should be made with extreme caution.
Pros: Creates a more durable and custom-fit wrench. Cons: Requires more tools, skill, and potentially more time investment.
Safety Precautions
Always prioritize safety when working with tools and firearms:
- Wear appropriate safety glasses and gloves.
- Ensure the firearm is unloaded and cleared before attempting any work.
- Exercise caution when using power tools.
- Be mindful of sharp edges when handling the finished wrench.
This guide provides a solid foundation for creating your own 870 forend wrench. Remember that precision and proper fitting are key to a functional and safe tool. With careful planning and execution, you can create a custom wrench tailored to your needs and significantly reduce your expenses. Remember to always prioritize safety and handle your firearm responsibly.
