The 870 Thread

Maybe this exists already somewhere, but if not, maybe this thread can suffice.

I have an 870 Super Magnum Express, an 870 Wingmaster, maybe two.. they're excellent.

The SM is in a bit of disrepair at the moment though, a friend used it, took it apart for cleaning and ended up getting the action bars firmly stuck in the receiver, binding for some reason.

Is there any "suave" way to fix this or is it a tap it with a hammer until she comes loose type of thing? I don't have a clue what happened, but want to remove the action bars from their death grip and inspect for damage. It's been stuck like this for like 2 years, mainly because trying to muscle it out didn't work and I've since not had time to mess with it.

Local gunsmith is out of business apparently, and I am not an 870 whisperer. Not sure if my friend is a special one, or if the quality has gone down some, or what. This SM was a gift to me and is probably 10+ years old. Aside from the obvious issue, it's been a great shotgun and the only shotgun I've had that's had any issues.

Thanks. Pics are welcome.

 

Not sure, but I assume the 870 in these pictures is basically the same action. Go down to step 4 and see if that makes any sense.

http://www.gunsumerreports.com/review_remington_870_express_tactical_p4.php