Mossberg 590 - Manual (Page 12)

10
Remove the forearm/action slide assembly by sliding it forward and off the magazine tube.
CAUTION: Field disassembly is now complete! The shotgun should not be
disassembled further for routine cleaning or maintenance. Further disassembly should
only be performed at the factory or by a qualified gunsmith.
cleaning anD luBricaTion
With proper maintenance and care, your Mossberg ® firearm will provide you with years of
dependable service. Your firearm should be inspected and cleaned periodically to ensure that it
remains in good condition. Clean your firearm as soon as possible after use. This is especially
important if your firearm has been exposed to moisture. For maximum performance and
continued satisfaction with your firearm, periodic cleaning and lubrication are essential.
Follow the instructions and equipment provided with a quality gun cleaning kit.
Always be sure that the safety button is fully rearward in the “ON” (SAFE) position
(Figure 1) and that the firearm is unloaded by visually and physically checking
the chamber, elevator, and magazine tube before cleaning your firearm. Wear eye
protection during cleaning.
Normal use requires only that the mechanisms be free of excessive shooting residue. Very little
lubrication other than a light oiling of internal and external surfaces to prevent rust is needed.
To ensure optimum performance, Mossberg recommends thorough cleaning of your firearm
after every 200 rounds. However, unusually dusty, dirty, or harsh weather conditions, or use of
ammunition which leaves significant powder residue may require more frequent cleaning.
If the firearm is to be stored for a long period of time, it should be thoroughly cleaned and oiled.
Do not plug the barrel or store in a fabric-lined case that will absorb lubricant from the firearm, as
this may result in corrosion to the unprotected metal surfaces.
Over-lubrication should be avoided during below freezing conditions. Many lubricants thicken in
low temperatures which could affect the operation of the firearm. Exposure to unfavorable weather
or moisture from condensation requires additional care to prevent corrosion to the firearm.
Barrel cleaning
Scrub bore and chamber with solvent and follow with cleaning patches until barrel is clean. A
final pass with a lightly oiled patch will provide a protective coating. A stiff brass bristle brush is
useful for removing stubborn deposits.
Pivot the front portion of the elevator upward out of the receiver (Fig. 11-B). Squeeze the two
arms which form the open end of the elevator assembly together sufficiently to disengage and
remove the elevator from the receiver (Fig. 11-C).