S&W MODEL 1000 20 GA GAS PISTON NIGHTMARE

[UTM]

I have an older (1970s) S&W Model 1000 Semi-Auto 20 gauge that I haven't fired for awhile. Intending to shoot this weekend I wanted to give the gun a good once over before heading out. After making sure the shotgun was safe, I began a simple field strip for a quick lube and wipe down. What I found next was absolutely the worst thing I have ever seen happen to a gun other than from total abuse and neglect, neither of which I will tolerate. The gas piston shock absorber had completely broken down and turned into a sticky, black tar-like, oozy mess that rendered the gas mechanism inoperable. And I mean mess. This little "shock absorber" is just a flat O-ring washer. I'm guessing the material broke down from exposure to petroleum based cleaner and lube. Nowhere, NOWHERE did S&W specify dry lube or anything other than normal cleaning and lubrication products. Has this happened to anyone else ? I hope not, but if so, how did you clean up the mess and are there any after market replacement parts that would prevent this from happening again ?

[JenniferG]

Numrich Arms aka Gun Parts Corporation carries replacement parts for the Howa Manufacturing Smith and Wesson 1000. I once owned a Super 1000 Skeet Model 12 gauge and they sold me a few springs and such that I needed. I don't know about the sealing washer though. Here's the parts list.

https://www.gunpartscorp.com/Manufac...245.htm?page=4

[broembke]

This is a known problem. A modern washer made of modern polymers fixes the issue. Mine cycles like a dream.

[Delkal]

Fifty year old pieces of plastic can do that. Especially if they are exposed to gun oils and hot gasses. But since this is not an obscure shotgun I predict you can get her up and running for $10-15 shipped. And if you pay $5 extra for a spare she will be good for another 100 years.

[ar15jules]

I also have the 1000S Skeet Model. No issues so far.

[bogey1]

All 5 of my franchi spas 12/Law 12's have had the plastic buffers replaced. Some were flat and in pieces, others were still new like.

[UTM]

I thank all of you for your replies and valid starting points for parts and fixes to get this nifty little 20 ga. up and running. Thank you.

[JenniferG]

The Mossberg 1000 is the same gun.