Stoeger M3500 Problems And Their Solutions

The Stoeger M3500 is popular for hunting, sporting, and home defense shotguns. Unfortunately, like any piece of equipment, it is not perfect. While the M3500 has some excellent features that make it a great choice, there are also some common issues reported by owners.

This article will discuss some of these problems, how to troubleshoot them and provide potential solutions.

Some common complaints from the shooters are Jamming Problems, Failure To Feed, Carrier Spring Plate problems, Failure To Eject, Cycling Issues, and Bolt Getting Stuck. 

Stoeger M3500 Problems

With this information, you should be able to make an informed decision about owning or using a Stoeger M3500 shotgun.

Quick Overview of Stoeger M3500 Specs

Details
Action Semi-Automatic
Gauge 12 gauge
Chamber Size 3.5 inches (89mm)
Barrel Length 28 inches (also available in other lengths)
Stock Material Synthetic (various finishes available)
Barrel Material Steel
Capacity Varies (typically 4+1 or 3+1)
Receiver Material Aluminum alloy
Magazine Tubular, under the barrel
Trigger Single-stage

Common Stoeger M3500 Problems And Their Solutions

1. Jamming Problems

If your Stoeger m3500 shotgun experiences frequent jamming or is not cycling properly, a few things can be done to help resolve this issue.

First, ensure that you’re using high-quality ammunition. Poorly made shells may cause jams and misfires due to their irregular size or shape.

Additionally, if you use reloaded ammunition, ensure your reloads are consistent in size and shape.

Second, ensure that the internal components of your shotgun are kept clean. A buildup of residue or dirt on the frame and barrel can cause jams and cycling problems.

Regularly clean with a high-quality gun-cleaning solution. It would be best if you also used a dry cloth to clean the internal components of your gun and ensure that all parts are debris-free.

Third, check the gas system for any blockages or corrosion. If your shotgun has a removable choke tube, inspect this as well. A blocked or dirty choke can cause jamming problems.

Cleaning these components regularly can prevent future issues with your shotgun.

Finally, examine the recoil spring or magazine spring for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice the spring is worn or broken, replace it with a new one as soon as possible.

2. Failure To Feed

If you’re having issues with your gun not feeding correctly, there are a few possible causes.

First, ensure the shell latch is engaged and free of debris that could prevent it from operating properly.

Also, check all parts of the shotgun—including the magazine tube, tube spring, fore-end assembly, and magazine cut-off—for obstructions or damage that might be causing the failure to feed.

If all those areas are clear, then you may need to replace your shell latch or its related parts.

If none of these steps work, it could be time for a more in-depth inspection of the shotgun’s internal components.

An experienced gunsmith can help you determine what needs to be adjusted or replaced to get your gun back up and running.

3. Carrier Spring Plate problem

The Carrier Spring Plate problem in the Stoeger m3500 shotgun is one of the most common issues with this model.

This issue arises due to an improperly sized spring plate and can lead to improper cycling of shells or even a failure to cycle altogether.

Fortunately, fixing this issue is relatively straightforward, provided you have patience and a bit of mechanical know-how!

First, you must take apart the firearm and locate the spring plate. This should be located between the carrier assembly and the trigger group, where it can be seen if properly assembled.

If your spring plate looks out of place or seems overly large for its location, this is likely the source of your cycling problems with your gun.

Once you are sure the carrier spring plate is causing your problems, it’s time to remove the old one and replace it with a new one.

To do this, unscrew the screws holding the old spring and then slide out the old part. Once everything has been loosened and removed, slide in a new spring plate and carefully re-screw it into place. Make sure everything is snugly in place before attempting to cycle the firearm.

4. Failure To Eject

Failure to eject is a common problem encountered by owners of this Stoeger model. This can be caused by several things, such as worn firing pin springs, inadequate cleaning or lubrication, defective gas rings or other parts, and improper gun assembly.

To identify the cause of this issue, it is important first to determine what type of cartridge you are using in the gun. Different types of cartridges can require different amounts of force to eject properly.

If you have determined that your cartridge type is not the cause of the issue, then it is recommended that you disassemble and check for any signs of wear or damage to the firing pin spring, gas rings, and other parts.

If any of these parts are worn out, it can cause a failure in the ejection process and should be replaced as soon as possible.

Furthermore, another common cause is inadequate cleaning and lubrication of the gun. Failing to clean y regularly can lead to dirt and other debris building up inside the action, which can cause the ejection process to fail. It is important to clean your gun properly and often, using the correct lubrication for optimal performance.

5. Cycling Issue

One of the common problems some owners experience is a cycling issue. This issue can happen if the bolt handle isn’t properly lubricated, leading to increased friction between the receiver and bolt handle when cycling the action.

You can usually rectify this problem by oiling or greasing both surfaces and ensuring they are properly aligned before firing the gun.

Another potential issue is a faulty firing pin assembly, which might cause inconsistent cycling and misfires due to poor contact between the pin and bolt face.

A light coat of oil must be applied to the magazine, tube inside the receiver, and bolt groves in order to clean the gun thoroughly.

To solve this, replacing the faulty parts is recommended. Finally, there may be an issue with the firing pin safety mechanism that can cause improper cycling, so you should check to ensure it’s functioning properly.

6. Bolt Getting Stuck

A stuck bolt is one of the most common problems experienced when using the Stoeger M3500 shotgun.

This can happen for many reasons, including poor maintenance or failing to properly lubricate the gun after cleaning. In most cases, this issue can be fixed fairly quickly by performing a few simple steps.

First, make sure that all parts are clean and properly lubricated. This includes the barrel, barrel lug, locking block, bolt release button, and any other parts that may be affected. A sticky bolt is often caused by dirt or oil buildup on these parts.

Once all relevant parts have been cleaned and lubricated, check for any obstructions in the chamber or mechanism.

Clear something out with a cleaning rod or similar instrument if something is stuck. This should help reduce the burden on the bolt when operating.

Finally, check for any damage caused by corrosion or wear and tear over time. Replace any affected parts with new ones so your shotgun can operate reliably and safely.

Best Alternative Guns of Stoeger M3500

When it comes to alternative guns to the Stoeger M3500, there are a handful of options available. However, after thorough research and analysis, three stand out. These are the Stoeger M3000, Winchester SX4, and Beretta A400.

Stoeger M3000,

It is a highly reliable and durable alternative to the M3500. It boasts a similar design and build quality to its predecessor, making it a great choice for those who have come to appreciate the Stoeger brand.

Additionally, the M3000 has a lower price point than the M3500, making it a more affordable option for those on a tighter budget.

Winchester SX4

It is another excellent alternative to the Stoeger M3500. This shotgun features a gas-operated system, making shooting even under heavy recoil comfortable.

The SX4 is also highly customizable, with various grips and stocks available to tailor the gun to the shooter’s specific needs and preferences.

Beretta A400

It is a standout alternative to the Stoeger M3500. This shotgun is known for being incredibly reliable, with minimal maintenance required to keep it in perfect working order.

It also has an adjustable stock, making it a great choice for those who need a gun that can be customized to fit their unique shooting style.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get my Stoeger M3500 to cycle properly?

To ensure proper cycling, make sure you are using high-quality ammunition that meets the requirements set by Stoeger. Using low-quality or improperly sized ammunition may cause cycling issues.

My Stoeger M3500 is not ejecting shells properly. What can I do?

If your gun is not ejecting shells properly, try cleaning the bolt grooves and the inside of the receiver. Apply a little oil on the bolt grooves and inside the handle. This should help improve the ejection of spent shells.

How do I put my M3500 back together after cleaning?

To put your shotgun back together after cleaning, start by aligning the hole in the bolt with the hole in the magazine tube. Insert the bolt and drop it into the magazine tube. Then, seat the bolt by pulling the charging handle back and letting it go forward.

Is it easy to disassemble and clean?

Yes, the M3500 is designed to disassemble and clean easily. Simply remove the bolt, magazine, and barrel to access the major components for cleaning.

Can I use any ammo in my M3500?

While Stoeger semi-automatic shotguns are known to cycle a variety of ammunition, it is always recommended to use high-quality ammunition that meets Stoeger’s specifications for best performance and reliability.

Where can I buy Stoeger M3500 semi-automatic shotguns?

Stoeger M3500 semi-automatic shotguns are available for purchase at various firearms retailers, both online and in physical stores. You can check with your local gun shops or search online retailers for availability.

Conclusion

If you are searching for a reasonably priced yet top-notch semi-automatic shotgun, the Stoeger M3500 can be an excellent option. However, even experienced shooters may run into some issues with their firearms.

That is why I have conducted thorough research and provided solutions to any challenges you may encounter with your Stoeger M3500, regardless of your proficiency level.

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