battue has this right... I have a bunch of older 870's, they function fine.. Bought a new trap gun about 94.. It has only gotten smoother with use..
This Dec. we spent some time in AZ.. Shot trap a couple days.. There were a couple young guys there with an 870 express.. A new one.. They were having the same trouble you describe.. I couldn't believe it, but it was true..
Sad..
