The Gun Digest Book of
FIREARMS
ASSEMBLY/DISASSEMBLY
Part V: Shotguns Second Edition
J. B. Wood
Editorial Comments and Suggestions
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© 2002
by Krause Publications
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Introduction
As a general rule, the average shotgunner is likely to know more about simple takedown than most other shooters. In modem semi-auto and slide-action guns, especially, several extra barrels in different lengths and choke degrees may be kept on hand and changed frequently. Because of the sometimes-inclement weather conditions in which it is used, the hunter's shotgun will often need to be taken completely apart, dried and cleaned. Besides the effects of rain, snow, or dust, there are always a few cases of the gun being inadvertently dropped over the side of a boat.
When the non-gunsmith is faced with the necessity of total takedown, the original instruction sheet or booklet supplied with the gun can be of some help, if he has it. Most of these, though, go only as far as field-stripping. Also, for some of the older guns, these booklets are scarce and valuable collector items, not usually available to the average gun owner. Some of the foreign manuals are direct translations, and are sometimes more amusing than helpful. So, this series of books is designed to help, with clear instructions for complete takedown and reassembly. The first four volumes have covered pistols, revolvers, rimfire rifles, and centerfire rifles, in that order. A sixth volume covered law enforcement weapons.
Some points in complete disassembly and reassembly may require the special tools and skills of a gunsmith. It can usually managed by a very knowledgeable amateur, but there must be some mechanical aptitude. Since this book is intended for both the amateur and the professional, even the simpler operations are often described and shown in detail.
In some cases, the tools needed are not available at an ordinary store, so a section on tools is included, along with the sources for each tool or set of tools.
A few general rules can be applied to the takedown of any gun: A nylon or plastic mallet may sometimes be used to tap a tight assembly free, but no extreme force should be used. Wear safety glasses at all times to protect the eyes from springs and spring-propelled parts. Avoid taking a gun apart in circumstances where small parts are likely to be lost. Finally, read the instructions through at least once, before you start.
My readers, I assume, are intelligent, and would not try to dismantle a loaded gun. So, I won't begin each set of instruction with the standard warning. However, since anyone can have a momentary lapse, I'll say it once: Before starting the takedown of any gun, be sure it is entirely unloaded. Don't rely on the feed and ejector systems -look inside and make certain. In some tube-magazine types, a round can "hide."
An important addition to the back of this book is a comprehensive index and cross-reference list, linking all of the shotguns covered here to guns of similar or identical pattern. When these are included in the count, the instructions in this revised edition can be used for the takedown and reassembly of hundreds of shotguns.
J. B. Wood
Raintree House
Corydon, Kentucky
April, 2002
A Note on Reassembly
Most of the shotguns covered in this book can be reassembled by simply reversing the order of disassembly, carefully replacing the parts in the same manner they were removed. In a few instances, special instructions are required, and these are listed with each gun under "Reassembly Tips." In certain cases, reassembly photos are also provided.
If there are no special instructions or photos with a particular gun, you may assume that it can just be reassembled in reverse order. During disassembly, note the relationship of all parts and springs, and lay them out on the workbench in the order they were removed. By following this procedure you should have no difficulty.
The Gun Digest® Book of Firearms Assembly/Disassembly Part V: Shotguns, 2nd Edition
Contents