Maintaining a Remington 1100 in top working condition starts with a thorough and methodical cleaning process. Whether you use it for competitive trap shooting, waterfowl hunting in the marsh, or simply for plinking on the weekend, this reliable over-under performs best when its internal components are free from powder residue, waxy buildup, and old lubricants. A proper clean after every range session or hunting outing prevents corrosion, safeguards accuracy, and extends the life of the shotgun, ensuring it remains a dependable tool for years to come.
Understanding the Remington 1100's Operating System
The Remington 1100 operates via a long-stroke piston system housed within the forend, which means that burnt gases are vented through ports to drive the action. This design keeps the action components relatively clean compared to direct gas-impingement systems, but it also means carbon can accumulate inside the gas piston and around the action bars. To effectively clean the 1100, you must address both the external surfaces and these critical internal components that cycle the action.
Safety First and Field Stripping Basics
Before touching any cleaning tools, confirm the shotgun is completely unloaded by checking the chamber and magazine tube. Engage the safety and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction throughout the entire process. For a standard clean, you do not need to fully strip the shotgun to "lock stock and barrel." Instead, begin by removing the forend by pressing the forend release and sliding it forward off the magazine tube. This exposes the action bars and the piston, giving you access to the areas that require the most attention without compromising the integrity of the factory timing.
Cleaning the Action and Piston
With the forend removed, apply a quality solvent to a bronze bore brush and scrub the inside of the action, focusing on the cross bolt and the area where the firing pin moves. Use a patch soaked in solvent to wipe out the carbon deposits from the gas ports in the piston and the corresponding area in the action. It is vital to remove all old, carbonized solvent at this stage; simply wiping it around will turn thick goo into a slick that attracts more debris. Once the heavy debris is gone, lightly lubricate the action bars and the piston with a clean, gun-specific lubricant, ensuring smooth operation without creating a sticky mess that attracts dirt.
Barrel Maintenance and Bore Cleaning
The barrel is the most straightforward component to clean, yet it is the most important for maintaining accuracy. Attach a suitable caliber patch to your cleaning rod and run it through the bore with a solvent-impregnated patch to loosen the fouling. Follow this with a slightly stiffer bronze or nylon brush to scrub the rifling, rotating the brush in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions to ensure an even cleaning action. Finish the bore with a series of dry patches until they emerge clean and residue-free, then apply a very light coat of oil to protect the steel from moisture during storage.
Stock and Metal Finish Care
While the internals are drying, turn your attention to the wood stock and the metal finish. Wipe down the stock with a clean, damp cloth to remove any oils or residues from handling, and if the wood is dry, apply a minimal amount of gunstock oil to prevent checking and cracking. The bluing or parkerized finish on the metal should be cleaned with a lightly oiled cloth; avoid harsh abrasives that can remove the protective finish. For stubborn fingerprints or oxidation on the trigger guard or magazine, a dedicated metal polish can be used sparingly, followed by immediate wiping to prevent streaking.
