Remington 870 Receiver Scratch Removal

Police trade-in shotguns will often come with a wide assortment of scratches and engravings. All too often, a rack or badge number will be etched into in the metal with an engraving machine. Removing these marks is fairly easy.

In this case, I’ll be using the following tools from Brownells:

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The number 64322 is engraved on the left side and bottom of this 870 Magnum’s receiver. I’ll work on removing the side engraving first.

The shotgun is disassembled and the magazine tube is secured gently in a padded Multi-Vise. If you aren’t using a padded vise, be careful not to bend or damage the magazine tube, they are fairly thin and require factory replacement if damaged.

The receiver surfaces were degreased and I wrapped some painters tape around the serial number to prevent it from being ground off. Oil and files don’t mix, so it’s important any residual oil is removed prior to filing.

I use a bastard cut, flat-file to draw file the left side of the receiver to remove the engraving. When draw filing, the file is pulled perpendicular to the receivers short axis. This technique leaves a smooth and level surface- as opposed to simply sanding or grinding the area with the engraving.

The file is followed by some 220 grit abrasive cloth wrapped around a small sanding block. Do-Drill cutting oil is used to lubricate the surface. The final surface has the number 64322 removed, however, all of the factory markings, as well as the serial number are clear and undisturbed.