Introduction: How to Install a Plug in a Shotgun

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If you are a hunter, you know that there are many regulations that concern firearms that you can use for various hunting seasons. One of these is the number of rounds that you can carry loaded in your shotgun (3 rounds for Ohio for example). This is both for safety and to keep the sporting aspect of the activity. To prevent overloading, plastic pieces called plugs are put in the tube. In this guide, I will be showing you how to install these to keep you out of trouble with the game wardens. Before we continue, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR GUN SAFETY! Always treat the firearm as if it were loaded and always keep it pointed in a safe direction.

Step 1: Supplies

For this guide you need only two things: a shotgun (any type with a tube magazine) and a plug. You will also need your hands so if you remembered to bring them with you, we are in business.

Step 2: Remove the Shoulder Strap and the Cap

There are many different types of straps that hunters and recreational shooters use. If you have one installed, it will make it much easier if you remove it before you continue. Since they are different, I can't tell you exactly how to remove yours however, once it is removed you can easily unscrew the cap to the tube magazine. Watch out, there is a large spring on the inside of the tube.

Step 3: Remove the Tube Components

Once the cap is off, pull out the spring and the bottom retaining piece/cap. Temporarily remove the bottom piece and feed the plug through the spring. Replace the bottom piece and you are now ready to put everything back together. Slide everything back into the tube.

Step 4: Replace the Cap

Collapse the spring and tube contents back into the tube and replace the cap. Make sure it is on tight so the spring doesn't pop out and bring everything out with it. Replace your strap if you have one. You are now finished!

Step 5: Finished!

Like I said, you are all finished! You should be within regulations (double check to be sure) concerning the appropriate number of rounds in you shotgun. If ever in doubt, check online or with your local division of natural resources officer. Thanks for reading, and happy shooting!