Stock Removal & Installation - Remington 870 Tips & Tricks #14

Many 870 owners wish to change the stock on their shotgun to better fit them, the application, or just their idea of "cool". 870 stocks are not usually very complicated, and basic instructions are easy to find, but there are a lot of little lesser-known details that I often see causing confusion and problems for inexperienced owners, and there are a number of extra steps and tricks that aren't repeated much outside the circles of gunsmiths and armorers, but are worth knowing about.
This video will cover the removal and installation of 870 stocks & grips in detail. It will explain the purpose of the stock bearing plate and when it should & shouldn't be used, receiver sizes & stock interchangeability, and stock fastener lengths. You can jump directly to a particular step at any point by clicking on the timecodes in the following video outline:
Intro - 0:00
Removal - 1:37
Stock Bearing Plate - 6:06
870 Stock Interchangeability - 10:03
Fasteners - 10:37
Installation - 12:50
Outro - 16:50
ADDITIONAL NOTES (please read before commenting):
I recommend watching this video with the annotations turned on. I'll be adding various notes to provide further details, as well as links to other related videos when relevant. There will be no giant flags blocking the video, and absolutely no begging for subscriptions or likes.
This video will only cover removal & installation of stocks & grips, not the fore-end. A separate in-depth video on fore-ends is planned, but I need to do more research on the subject first.
This video should completely cover removal & installation of factory-installed stocks & grips for all standard 870 models (and should be applicable to 870 clones as well). I've done what I can to anticipate issues folks might have with aftermarket furniture, but I obviously can't go into detail on every aftermarket setup out there. If you have questions about a specific aftermarket stock or grip, refer to the instructions, or contact their manufacturer.
PROGRAMS USED:
Adobe Reader
Audacity
AVS Video Editor 6.3 (which sucks)
Google Chrome
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Rhinoceros 3.0
Windows Paint
Windows Picture and Fax Viewer
KZbin Video Editor (also awful)
DISCLAIMERS:
By accessing this video, the viewer signifies their understanding of, consent to, and agreement with the following:
The procedures and information presented in this video should not be taken as professional or official instruction. Any information given here is correct to the best of my knowledge at the time of posting, but may be subject to change. All actions shown were performed by a properly-equipped and knowledgeable individual, and were carried out in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations in a safe manner and environment. If changing or altering your 870's stock has legal ramifications in your locality, it is up to you to account for that. The viewer assumes sole responsibility for any actions that they take, and any consequences that result.
The Remington model 870 shotgun, and all official art, images, and other assets relating to this and any other products mentioned herein remain the property of their legal owners. Animaniacs remains the property of Warner Bros. Animation & Amblin Entertainment. All media used in this work was either created by me, or was published or otherwise publicly available in digital or physical form. I make no claim to anything in this video that I don't own; I use them herein for the purposes of education and entertainment only, and the purpose, character, and substantiality of their use does not, to the best of my understanding, constitute copyright infringement according to 17 USC § 107.

[@stevenrhyne1]

@Synchronizor any reason the stock bolt assembly would be different in a Super Mag? I have a 3 week old gun and the stock bolt won't turn. I removed trigger assembly and placed some oil on other end but still nothing.

[@stevenrhyne1]

Got it off!

[@SynchronizorVideos]

Glad you got it figured out. For anyone else who might read this, no, the SuperMags aren't any different when it comes to stock installation or removal. The one thing worth noting with SuperMags is that some aftermarket stocks (especially folding or recoil-mitigating designs) aren't really built to take the heavy recoil of 3.5" super magnum shells. The manufacturer will usually include a warning if this is the case.

[@aceman1126]

I've seen a LOT of how to gun vids on YT over the years and I have to say this was EXCELLENT. Very well done, informative, and to the point. Thank you.

[@labtrainer09]

Absolutely brilliant. Thorough, professional, clear, articulate-every superlative I can think of.

[@Investigamer]

Loved the lesson in wood physics toward the middle lol. Your videos are incredibly thorough, just want you to know it is well appreciated!

[@davidgilchrist137]

Synchronizor Thank You for an extremely complete and clear presentation! Your delivery is excellent, not corny like many and it is very complete. Step by step, what is needed, recommended and possibly beneficial. Your clarity and even delivery is wonderful, thank you for your great preparation and professional presentation. David

[@horseshares6156]

I echo Chris Cornell's comment 100%!!! This guy is the Marty Stouffer (Wild America on PBS) of gun narration and education!! THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME, TALENT AND EXPERTISE!!! WELL DONE!! ADDICTIVE!!

[@TreyKing63]

Fantastic video! You reminded me of my father who was a professional engineer. As a Chemistry teacher your attention to detail is superb and much appreciated. A+

[@denvergriffin5555]

This is as good and helpful a series of how-to and tips and tricks videos as I've ever seen on any subject. You have a rare knack for anticipating where the tricky areas will be and telling viewers how to work around or solve the issues. Superb job and many thanks for creating this series.

[@SynchronizorVideos]

+Jeb Stuart Thank you. Years on forums have greatly helped me recognize and anticipate where folks have had or may have trouble. I firmly believe that one of the best ways to learn about a subject is to teach others about it.

[@johnmahoney5968]

Best instructional videos on the 870 KZbin has. Thank you

[@tingley428]

I just got vintage police wood for my 870 tactical, was about to just put it together but checked yt 1st to see if any quirks i needed to know and well..... you just saved me from destroying old wood since i didn't get the bearing plate with the wood! THANK YOU!!

[@walterdl2904]

Excellent video. I bought a stock set for an old 870 20GA. Your video explained well the difference between small and large frame. Thank's to your excellent presentation I know I have a large frame set and a small frame gun. That knowledge saved me a lot of grief and aggravation. I am glad I watched BEFORE I turned a screw.Please keep up the good work.

[@TheBangBang0808]

A great video that covered a lot in simple plain language. Even if you knew nothing about shotguns or not mechanical inclined you could change a stock after watching this.

[@ATINKERER]

That was amazing! You covered the subject in great detail, showing what variations might be encountered, and presented it all in an easy to understand manner. You sure know your stuff, and you're a great teacher too! Thanks.

[@aredman22]

Thanks for the extremely thorough instructional video. That tip to lube a stuck stock bolt from behind the trigger assembly was a life-saver. I wouldn't have been able to get the job done otherwise.

[@johnnyrottensr.6549]

Surprisingly advanced Vocabulary for one of us gun lovers! Glad you're on our side... 😄

[@bigdogdaddy9022]

Your video was very informative and very detailed! I like the fact that you’re not playing a bunch of loud music like Def Leppard while you’re trying to tell people about the instructional steps. I hate some of these other people they play videos so loud that you can’t even hardly hear the speaker! Great job! I really enjoyed your video!

[@buckbuck22]

Wow, VERY helpful! I'm starting a stock and forend assembly replacement this weekend on my 870 Express Magnum. It's a adjustable stock and matching forend from ATI. They seem to have included lots of parts and decent instructions.This will be my first go ever at any kind of firearm work. I found so many things helpful in this video. Thank your posting this.

[@kingbaldwiniv5409]

That was a GREAT instructional video. Thank you! I am used to some pretty cruddy alternatives, so your thorough, detailed, but topical info was perfect.

[@trevorseals6588]

I didn’t know there was so much to 870 stocks. So much info and I appreciate it. You earned yourself a sub

[@paulisemonger280]

Excellent info! Exactly what I needed and a lot more I didn’t know I needed! Comprehensive. Thank you.

[@Ishoot4thriLLs]

Wow, undoubtedly one of the best instructional videos I've ever seen. Super informative and very well presented.

[@mikejacobs3554]

What a great instructional video! Thanks for taking the time to make this, a true professional!

[@howtodoit91]

Very detailed instruction. Much appreciated.

[@sssttt90]

Thanks you so much for talking about the bearing plate

[@kevinbrown7900]

I like your videos. The detail of the explanation is great.

[@knowledgepower3693]

Thanks for sharing! Shotgun pad corroded and had to use the diagram to find the screw holes, saved me a big hassle. Was left in the safe for so long, the foam pad on bottom of the safe and rubber pad started to deteriorate and became one single sticky concoction of hell!

[@johnmizell1842]

Nice, Clear, and Complete Video. Thanks Very Much

[@KineticConstant]

Ah thanks so much. Was a bit nervous to do it myself but seeing you do it has helped enormously!

[@selflove6000]

Great video. You’re a natural at this. Lots of good information, just bought a bearing plate!

[@dennissneed2162]

The best video's! Thanks so much, just learning this stuff and you make it clear and concise with lots of great detail.My search is over when i watch one of your vids.

[@jessejones6409]

Your videos are incredible.

[@THR33SIXX3MPYR]

This video was excellent, thank you very much.

[@jacklynn4424]

I've been shooting and working on 870's since the 60's and I've learned things from watching your videos that I never knew before. Thank you

[@spyspyboy7948]

Jack Lynn can you use a mossberg pistol grip on a Remington 870

[@jacklynn4424]

Spy Spyboy, I am not familiar with Mossberg shotguns, only Remingtons, and only in an amateur capacity, but I don't believe they are interchangeable. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.

[@Probablyshouldnthave]

great video, its been a while since you posted, your videos are a great resource so keep up the good work I am sure if someone is looking for how to do this they will find it very helpful. thank you

[@gulfsurfco]

EXCELLENT! Top notch info and presentation!

[@jb121993]

Excellent explanation! Went well beyond what my owners manuel spoke of.

[@sinnerface3930]

Nice Video! amazing details about the molecular structure of the wood! hmmm...

[@smartart1969]

Great video and instruction as always. Wish I would've watched it before I removed my stock. I put mine in a vise and cracked it. I should've clamped it closer to the receiver or used bigger pads like you did. No big deal since I replaced it with a Magpul stock. However I don't like being a hack with any project. Lesson learned. The socket would've been helpful too and the penetrant on the receiver side is a good tip. This gun was made in the 60's so it was froze up tight ! My Dad's bird gun, god rest his soul. Thanks buddy !

[@scrubsliveit]

Thank you for this very clear and helpful video.

[@hinault1986]

Excellent video. Thanks!

[@burtonch]

Wow! Very well done video. Thank you.

[@jcm5083]

Thank you for the quality content

[@WilliamParmley]

This is just superb. Great detail and very clear explanation. (I just ordered the Mesa Tactical adapter -- don't know if I'll ever need it, but I'll have it if I do. Now I understand why and when it is required.)

[@srifenburg]

This was incredibly helpful and informative, thank you.

[@skypilot7103]

Great video thanks for your time on this.

[@Castro0119mc]

Bro this video content is like discovery channel quality top tier Thank you

[@MrCrazyjoe259]

Thank you for these super informative videos.

[@tuxnor]

Super informative and very well presented.

[@troylouis162]

Great detail and tips, thank you

[@rosscarlson4823]

Great video. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge.

[@CoreyCJordan]

Excellent tutorial videos. Thanks very much.

[@harrybrunett2054]

Good video! Very informative and complete.

[@georgeheidkesr1759]

Very helpful & informative........Thank You !!!

[@atomicdmt8763]

outstanding. THANKS for this video: very detailed.

[@ricdenali4213]

Thanks!! Just what I needed.

[@jaciel9943]

Super informational

[@DEATHWATCHxOPS]

Very helpful and informative thank you.

[@Ale-xv1ld]

this is just great video! thank you!

[@cliffordrandell735]

GREAT VIDEO

[@jamesvargas3581]

Thank you so much. This was such a great help.

[@farmwatchfarmwatch8745]

Very well done. Thank you.

[@Sparks52]

Super videos on the 870, including this one as I purchased an Urbino stock with shorter 12" reach and pistol grip to replace the one it came with. The other one you did showing stripping the 870 tactical down was invaluable. One note . . . an act that causes me to cringe every time I see someone do it . . . resting your hand over the end of the muzzle. Thanks for the detailed instructions.

[@SynchronizorVideos]

Thanks for the kind words. Regarding the hand on the muzzle, note that the slide is all the way back and the action is open. On an 870, that makes the gun completely safe. Even if a shell was in there and managed to line itself up with the bolt-face, both the hammer and firing pin are blocked with the bolt in that position, and the trigger connectors are disengaged from the sear. This is the state that an 870 should be in when changing choke tubes or cleaning/clearing the barrel - both activities that place body parts in front of the muzzle.

[@mark_lifts_things]

This was very helpful!

[@RKELLEHER40]

Howdy, Brother! Just wanted to let you know that this video helped me out a lot (and a lot others, i'm sure). Thanks again, God Bless and Drive-on, Cowboy!! 🤠

[@IEraiderfan]

Great video thanks.

[@Jepicosity]

Great video, thank you.

[@chrisczuchra854]

Awesome video

[@susanfowler2361]

very big help, thanks

[@natenick2]

Excellent video! Thank you. Now a subscriber to this channel

[@JuniorWarrior4Christ]

Thx you this info was very helpful

[@oscarcoreocontreras4127]

Great video

[@benthecaptain7419]

Wow pretty thorough

[@raymondcava4669]

Great video thank you

[@jonathanbarker2592]

Solid video :) if that hadnt earned my like, the animaniacs cut-away sealed the deal!

[@adnanakhtar3018]

nice video very helpful

[@joshtimmons7332]

Good vid. Love Animaniacs too

[@jerryking1434]

Nice and through ...

[@kendalabarca6707]

Exelente video!!!!!!! ; )

[@markworden9169]

The rubber butpad on mine is held on by sorta combination cross point small square drive sheet rock type screws from the factory and my long hold down bolt is round with a slot, it's kind of a newer gun with the flat finish.

[@s14duma]

Very informative video thanks! also subed

[@franciscodiaz951]

damn dude great video, just subscribed.

[@RANDY12764]

I have a v3 it was very interesting the first time I broke it down to clean

[@bigchungusamongus]

@Synchronizor IDK what happened to you dude but your 870 vids are some of the most well structured informative vids out there, even if they aren't filled with swipes and open source background music lol. AND even if you look like gollums albino ginger cousin. Lolololol Much love my dude.

[@SynchronizorVideos]

I'm still around, but due to starting a new job, moving, and dealing with family issues, new videos are on hiatus for the time being. Hopefully not for too much longer, though.

[@jokerblade6719]

I liked for the animaniacs clip but holy crap is there a lot of good info here.

[@TheFloridaBikeVlogger]

thank you. really good info. going to add wood to my marine magnum.

[@todd907]

thanks for the vid...had to replace butt on my 870...you made it easy....p.s...dig the nevermore shirt \m/

[@SynchronizorVideos]

One of my favorite poems. There's a great reading of it performed by Christopher Lee here on KZbin.

[@claytonkeates2614]

Great video. I've recently acquired a wood stock set for an 870 20 guage to put on my remington 7600 to swap out the synthetic furniture for wood. I heard they are interchangeable. Do you know of any additional pieces that I might need to make the swap? Thanks!

[@donaldmack2307]

I have the socket tool coming tmrw. I have a brand new 870. First thing I did was try and remove the stock bc I do a little wood working and planned to make my own pistol grip stock(full length shoulder too but with a nice custom pg for my hand)... But I COULD NOT get that bolt to break loose. Lord have mercy they put it on with a quite some force! I’ll make a new comment if I manage to get it off with the socket. I did damage the bolt face a little bit but maybe I can still get it to loosen. If not oh well, it’ll still be okay

[@johnlovell1739]

Preciate it

[@Fierroa1]

@Synchronizor 4:33 for the stock bolt being seized is it safe to use WD-40 for this?

[@traumajock]

My Norinco 98 has very stout plastic furniture. You could buttstroke a bad guy on the temple if need be. It has a bearing plate. I have old police wood stocks (blond maple stock and corncob fore end) coming to try to install on it.

[@jm4639]

It was a very informative video I have a old .22lr pump action Remington long rifle ,and I want to change it to a Tactical Pistol grip stock any suggestions?

[@Cotton2Ennis]

I have a 878 automatic 12ga would the aftermarket stocks for the 870 work for the 878 as well????

[@jkucukov]

What is the minimum clearance requirement between the wood stock and receiver? I just got a replacement wood stock as the original one has chipped near the receiver.

[@PetarKozic-sl2cv]

Thank you, so useful! I've finally found out about the 1/4 28 UNF thread which is, I assume, widely popular in States, but damn hard to find east from Atlantic!

[@SynchronizorVideos]

You should be able to order them online fairly easily. It's a pretty common inch thread standard.

[@PetarKozic-sl2cv]

@@SynchronizorVideos Thank you, I've found than Brownells is selling spare 870 stock bolts in EU also!

[@matt_1984_]

@@SynchronizorVideos Dude i love your videos, i hope you're doing well and plan on making more videos.

[@SynchronizorVideos]

@@matt_1984_ I really want to get back to videos; I've just had a lot going on in recent years.

[@theinfidel6301]

I have a use 870 Police trade in with a speed feed stock, apparently the receiver stud and the bolt are non standard, I’m wanting to replace the current stud with a factory standard stud, have you heard of this before? Is this an easy fix? What’s the story with the different sized stud?

[@sdl051]

Thanks for the great video! Your attention to the full detail is very helpful. One additional question on the composite stock assembly with adjustable "Length of Pull" LOP. I noticed that the recoil pad was slightly loose and needed attention. The screws felt fully engaged when loosening. The simple instructions that came with speak of using different length screws depending on what combination of spacers used. I bought my 20ga 11-87 used and the optional screws that came with are using a rather large head (approx 3/8") which will not fit into the small holes of the rubber recoil pad. Is there a trick for changing out these screws out or do I have the incorrect combination of parts? Thanks

[@SynchronizorVideos]

Well, the screw holes in factory recoil pads are, by design, pretty small compared to the heads of the screws that go in them. This is meant to keep the screws captured so they're less likely to fall out and get lost when the pad is removed, and to keep from having ugly gaping holes in the rear of the pad. Now, since you bought your gun used, there's certainly a chance that you have an odd set of screws that aren't meant for your pad. However, if you're pretty confident that they do all come from the same kit, I would go ahead and just be careful not to be too violent. Factory recoil pads are usually either rubber or coated foam, and they have enough elasticity to let you get the much larger screw heads in there. Do it too many times, and you might start tearing something, but once the screws are in the pad, they're meant to stay in.

[@alrusso9563]

Some recoil pads use square drive screws also.

[@SynchronizorVideos]

+al russo That's correct, good point. If a phillips screwdriver isn't grabbing the recoil pad screw, a #2 square-drive is worth trying. I'll add an annotation.

[@John.u71]

Great video! Thank you! I just bought a new 870 express 12gauge and i noticed the wood stock doesn't exactly line up with the receiver. It seems to fit about 1/32" or more above the top of the receiver. The bottom of the stock is also not lined up. Almost like the entire stock is shifted up about 1/32" higher than it should be. Any recommendations? Can i just unbolt the stock and try lining up again? Or is it just the lack of quality in a mass produced gun? Thanks again.

[@SynchronizorVideos]

You can try loosening the stock bolt and seeing if there's room to shift the stock down. Keep in mind 870s are mass-produced shotguns; not fine hand-fit high-dollar lvo Fabbris.

[@Kahwaihae]

Well done presentation, thanks!