Shotgun Servicing and Maintenance

Published on September 15, 2022
Duration: 30:19

This comprehensive guide details the essential steps for servicing and maintaining a shotgun, drawing on the expertise of gunsmiths from Longthorne Gunmakers. It covers basic disassembly, thorough cleaning of the action, bores, and chokes, as well as deep action stripping for trigger plate and firing pin maintenance. The guide emphasizes the importance of using quality materials and proper techniques to ensure reliability and longevity.

Quick Summary

Regular shotgun maintenance, including annual professional servicing and cleaning after each use, is crucial. Gunsmiths recommend using oil over grease for internal mechanisms as oil acts as a 'total loss system' carrying debris away, unlike grease which can trap grit and accelerate wear. Cleaning chokes and checking for barrel imperfections are also key steps.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Maintenance
  2. 01:05Cartridge Quality Impact
  3. 01:53Basic Disassembly Steps
  4. 02:54Visual Inspection of Action
  5. 05:26Checking for Barrel Dents
  6. 06:19Cleaning the Action with Oil and Air
  7. 08:05Oil vs. Grease Debate for Mechanisms
  8. 12:13Ejector Maintenance and Cleaning
  9. 13:16Chamber and Bore Cleaning Techniques
  10. 17:42Choke Maintenance and Greasing
  11. 19:21Deep Action Strip Procedure
  12. 23:11Firing Pin Removal and Inspection
  13. 25:11Trigger Plate Disassembly

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended maintenance interval for a shotgun?

A professional service is recommended annually for shotguns. This ensures all components are functioning correctly and helps prevent potential issues. Regular cleaning after each use is also essential to remove fouling and environmental contaminants.

Why is it important to clean shotgun chokes regularly?

Shotgun chokes should be removed and cleaned after every use. Applying marine-grade grease to the threads prevents gas and residue from seizing the choke into the barrel, ensuring it can be removed and replaced as needed.

What is the difference between using oil and grease for shotgun maintenance?

Gunsmiths prefer oil for internal mechanisms as it acts as a 'total loss system,' carrying debris away. Grease can trap grit, forming an abrasive paste that accelerates mechanical wear and can lead to malfunctions.

How can barrel dents be detected on a shotgun?

Barrel dents can be detected by running light down the length of the barrel and observing the reflection. Even minute ripples or ridges, as small as 10 microns, become visible, indicating dents or bore damage.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from TGS Outdoors

View all →