Removing a magazine plug from a shotgun is a task many hunters and sport shooters face. Sometimes, the shotgun comes with a plug installed to limit the number of shells you can load. This is often required by law for hunting in some regions.
However, for target shooting or home defense, you may want to remove the plug to restore the shotgun’s full capacity. Doing so safely and correctly is very important. This article will guide you through the process, common mistakes to avoid, and tips that many beginners miss.
What Is A Magazine Plug?
A magazine plug is a small rod or tube placed inside the magazine tube of a shotgun. Its main job is to limit the number of shells you can load, usually down to two or three. This is required for hunting in many places. The plug can be made from wood, plastic, or metal. Removing it will let your shotgun hold more shells, but always check your local laws before doing this.
Safety First: How To Prepare
Before you begin, safety is the top priority. Shotguns are powerful tools and must be handled with care.
- Unload the shotgun completely. Open the action and check the chamber and magazine tube. Double-check to be sure there are no shells inside.
- Wear safety glasses. Some parts are spring-loaded and can fly out quickly.
- Prepare a clean workspace. Use a table with a soft towel to prevent scratches.
Never skip these steps. Many accidents happen when people think the gun is unloaded but it isn’t.
Tools You May Need
Most shotguns can be disassembled without special tools. However, having the right tools nearby can make things smoother.
- Screwdriver (fits your shotgun’s magazine cap)
- Soft mallet (optional for stubborn parts)
- Needle-nose pliers (optional for removing the plug)
- Gun oil (for cleaning and reassembly)
Having these tools ready will help you avoid damaging any parts and make the process easier.
Removing The Magazine Plug: Main Steps
Now, let’s go through the main actions for taking out the plug. This process works for most pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns, such as the Remington 870, Mossberg 500, or Winchester SXP.
1. Unscrew The Magazine Cap
At the end of the magazine tube, you’ll see a cap. This holds the magazine spring and, often, the plug.
- Hold the shotgun with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
- Unscrew the magazine cap. Some may be tight, so use a soft mallet if needed.
2. Control The Spring
After removing the cap, the magazine spring is under tension.
- Place your hand over the end of the tube.
- Let the spring and any parts inside come out slowly.
If you let go too soon, the spring may fly out. This is why safety glasses are useful.
3. Remove The Plug
The plug is usually a thin rod inside the spring.
- Slide out the plug from the magazine tube.
- Some plugs come out easily, while others may need needle-nose pliers.
4. Reassemble The Shotgun
- Put the magazine spring back into the tube.
- Screw the magazine cap back on tightly.
- Check the shotgun to make sure it works as expected.
Example: Mossberg 500 Vs. Remington 870
Not all shotguns are the same. Here’s a quick comparison of two popular models:
| Shotgun Model | Magazine Plug Location | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mossberg 500 | Directly inside magazine tube | No extra tools required |
| Remington 870 | Behind a retainer inside tube | May need to remove retainer first |
Some shotguns have a small retainer or clip inside the magazine. If your model does, you’ll need to remove it first before getting to the plug.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many beginners make simple errors when trying to remove a magazine plug:
- Not checking local laws. Some areas require a plug for hunting at all times.
- Forcing parts. If something won’t move, don’t use too much force. Parts can break or get damaged.
- Losing small parts. Springs, caps, and retainers can roll away and get lost easily.
Being careful and patient is the key to success.
Tips For Success
Here are a few insights most guides miss:
- Keep all removed parts together. Use a small container so nothing gets lost.
- Take pictures during disassembly. It’s easy to forget how things go back together. Photos can help.
- Clean the magazine tube while open. Dirt and old oil can build up inside. Use a clean cloth and a little gun oil to wipe it out.
These small steps can save you time and prevent mistakes.
How Magazine Capacity Changes After Removing The Plug
It’s helpful to know how your shotgun’s capacity changes after taking out the plug. Here’s a simple example:
| Shotgun Type | Shell Capacity (with Plug) | Shell Capacity (no Plug) |
|---|---|---|
| Pump-Action (28″ barrel) | 2+1 | 5+1 |
| Semi-Auto (26″ barrel) | 2+1 | 4+1 |
The first number is the shells in the magazine, the “+1” means one in the chamber. Your shotgun’s numbers may be different, depending on the model and shell size.
Legal Considerations
Removing the magazine plug is not always allowed. Many hunting laws, especially in the United States, require the plug to be in place during bird or game hunting. Removing it for sporting or home defense is usually fine, but always check with your local wildlife agency or police department. You can find current regulations at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
When To Reinstall The Plug
If you plan to use your shotgun for hunting again, you must put the plug back in. Failing to do so can result in fines, loss of your hunting license, or even criminal charges in some places. Always reinstall the plug before any hunting trip.
Troubleshooting: What If The Plug Won’t Come Out?
Sometimes, the plug is stuck or the shotgun is an older model with a different design. Here’s how to handle some issues:
- Plug won’t move: Try a little gun oil and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Plug is broken: Replace it with a new one. Most gun stores sell replacements.
- Lost spring tension: If the spring is damaged or stretched, replace it to ensure reliable feeding.
If you feel unsure, it’s smart to ask a gunsmith for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Main Purpose Of A Shotgun Magazine Plug?
A magazine plug is used to limit the number of shells in your shotgun. This is often required by hunting laws to prevent over-harvesting of game.
Is It Legal To Remove A Magazine Plug From My Shotgun?
It depends on your location and the purpose. For hunting, most places require the plug. For target shooting or home defense, removing it is usually legal. Always check local laws.
Will Removing The Plug Damage My Shotgun?
No, if done correctly, removing the plug will not harm your shotgun. Use the right tools, don’t force any parts, and keep the spring under control.
How Do I Know If My Shotgun Has A Magazine Plug Installed?
Most new hunting shotguns come with a plug already installed. If your shotgun only loads two or three shells, it likely has a plug. You can check by removing the magazine cap and looking inside.
Can I Make My Own Magazine Plug?
Yes, many hunters use a simple wooden dowel as a magazine plug. It must fit snugly and limit the magazine to the correct number of shells for hunting laws.
Removing a magazine plug is a straightforward task for most shotguns, but it should always be done with safety and legal rules in mind. Take your time, keep track of all small parts, and double-check your local regulations before making any changes.
This way, you keep your shotgun working safely and legally for whatever purpose you need.
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