Quick Answer
Regular maintenance on a pump shotgun includes cleaning the barrel, chamber, and receiver after each use, inspecting and replacing worn parts, and lubricating moving components every 100 rounds fired.
Cleaning and Inspection
Cleaning your pump shotgun after each use is essential to prevent corrosion and maintain reliability. Use a bore brush and solvent to clean the barrel, and a soft cloth to wipe down the receiver and magazine tube. Inspect the firearm for any signs of wear on moving parts, such as the bolt, slide, and trigger, and replace them as needed. Pay particular attention to the recoil spring, which can weaken over time and affect the shotgun’s performance.
Lubrication and Maintenance Schedule
Lubricate the moving components of your pump shotgun every 100 rounds fired to keep them running smoothly. Use a light machine oil or silicone-based lubricant on the bolt, slide, and trigger, and apply a small amount of grease to the hinge pins and other moving parts. In addition to lubrication, perform a thorough cleaning and inspection every 500 rounds fired to ensure the shotgun remains in good working condition.
Storage and Pre-Season Prep
When not in use, store your pump shotgun in a dry, secure location to prevent corrosion. Clean and inspect the firearm before storing it, and apply a small amount of lubricant to the moving components to keep them protected. Before the waterfowl season, perform a thorough cleaning and inspection, and apply a rust inhibitor to the bolt, slide, and receiver to protect them from corrosion.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.