The Remington 1100 is a legendary shotgun, known for its reliability and performance. Proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial for ensuring its longevity and continued accuracy. This guide will walk you through a complete cleaning process, covering everything from basic disassembly to detailed cleaning techniques. Following these steps will help keep your Remington 1100 in top shooting condition for years to come.
Before You Begin: Safety First!
Always ensure your firearm is unloaded and that the action is open before beginning any cleaning process. Double-check the chamber and magazine tube to confirm there are no cartridges present. This is paramount to your safety and should never be overlooked.
Tools and Materials You'll Need:
- Remington 1100 Cleaning Kit: A dedicated kit often includes brushes, patches, and a cleaning rod specifically sized for your shotgun.
- Gun Oil: Use a high-quality gun oil designed for firearms. Avoid using household lubricants.
- Solvent: A solvent designed for removing fouling and residue from gun barrels. Choose one specifically for shotguns.
- Patches: Use patches of appropriate size and material for your shotgun's bore.
- Cleaning Rod: A high-quality cleaning rod, preferably one with a jag for attaching patches.
- Cotton Swabs: For cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- Toothbrush (Old): Helpful for scrubbing stubborn residue.
- Rags or Paper Towels: For wiping down components.
- Eye Protection: Always wear eye protection when handling firearms or cleaning solvents.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide:
1. Disassembly:
Refer to your Remington 1100 owner's manual for detailed disassembly instructions. Generally, this involves:
- Removing the magazine cap: Unscrew the magazine cap to access the magazine tube.
- Removing the magazine tube: Carefully remove the magazine tube.
- Separating the receiver and barrel: This usually involves a simple takedown process, but always consult your manual for specifics.
2. Cleaning the Barrel:
- Apply solvent: Using a cleaning patch, apply solvent to the inside of the barrel.
- Run the cleaning rod: Attach a cleaning patch to your cleaning rod and slowly push it through the barrel from the breech (rear) to the muzzle (front). Repeat this several times, using fresh patches until the patches come out clean.
- Dry the barrel: Use clean, dry patches to remove all traces of solvent from the barrel.
- Apply gun oil: Use a lightly oiled patch to lubricate the barrel slightly, preventing rust.
3. Cleaning the Receiver and Action:
- Remove excess debris: Use a brush and cotton swabs to remove any residue, powder fouling, or dirt from the receiver and action parts.
- Apply solvent (if necessary): If there is significant fouling, apply a small amount of solvent to a brush and carefully clean the affected areas.
- Wipe clean: Use a clean rag or paper towel to wipe down all components.
- Apply gun oil: Lightly oil all moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
4. Cleaning the Magazine Tube:
- Clean the tube: Use a brush to remove any powder or debris from inside the magazine tube.
- Wipe clean: Use a patch or rag to clean the inside of the magazine tube.
- Lightly oil: Lightly lubricate the inside of the magazine tube.
5. Reassembly:
Carefully reassemble the shotgun, following the instructions in your owner's manual. Ensure all parts are properly seated before firing.
Frequency of Cleaning:
The frequency of cleaning your Remington 1100 depends on use. After each shooting session, a basic cleaning of the barrel is highly recommended. A more thorough cleaning should be performed every few shooting sessions, or at least once a year for storage.
Beyond Basic Cleaning:
For more in-depth cleaning or if you encounter persistent issues, it is recommended to consult a qualified gunsmith. They can provide professional cleaning and repair services if needed.
By following this guide and performing regular cleaning and maintenance, you can ensure your Remington 1100 remains a reliable and accurate firearm for years to come. Remember, safety is paramount! Always handle your firearm responsibly and follow all safety procedures.
