Stoeger M3500 Common Issues [Fixed!]

The Stoeger M3500 is one of the best shotguns out there. Like any mechanical tool though, it also has its own potential problems that can make it a bit of a headache to use and maintain, especially if you’re new to the gun.

So in this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the more common issues with the Stoeger M3500 so you can keep your beloved shotgun in tip-top shape. Keep reading, and you’ll be an expert on Stoeger M3500 problems in no time! 

Stoeger M3500 Problems

1. Feeding Failure

One of the most common issues with the Stoeger M3500 is feeding failure. If your gun isn’t properly loading shells, it won’t fire properly. Failure to properly feed is fairly common in semi-automatic shotguns, but it can be particularly problematic in the Stoeger M3500. 

There are a couple of potential causes of feeding failure in the Stoeger M3500. To find out how to fix them, read on.

How to Fix It

Oftentimes, you’re looking at a simple fix that merely involves lubricating the parts of the gun that are responsible for feeding. But in this case, it’s usually the magazine’s outer tube that needs some attention.

Simply put a few drops of lubricant or oil onto the magazine’s tube and slide it back and forth. This should loosen up any tight spots and get your Stoeger M3500 running like new again! 

In fact, it’s a good idea to lubricate your shotgun regularly, as it can help prevent any future issues with feeding. So if you’re having problems with your Stoeger M3500, give this simple fix a try before you start considering more drastic measures!

Another simple fix that often gets overlooked in favor of more difficult resolutions is to tap on your magazine to ensure it is properly seated. Something as simple as this can make all the difference when it comes to properly feeding your Stoeger M3500. 

2. Cycling Issue

This is another common problem with the Stoeger M3500. If your shotgun isn’t cycling properly and not ejecting shells, it could be due to a number of things. Cycling is an essential part of firing a gun, and if it’s not working properly, you won’t be able to shoot safely. That’s a problem.

So we need to look at what could be causing the cycling issue. It could be a broken firing pin, out-of-spec shells, an underpowered recoil spring, or even dirty chambers. 

How to Fix It

That last potential culprit is what we most commonly see when it comes to cycling issues. It’s also the easiest fix: just make sure your gun is clean! Clean out the chamber and make sure all debris is removed, then try firing again. If that doesn’t do the trick, drop a little bit of oil on the magazine to ensure it is properly lubricated.

While you’re at it, go ahead and apply some oil to the receiver tube, as well as the Stoeger’s bolt groves. This will help with any chafing that may be preventing proper cycling.

If these remedies don’t work, the issue could be something more serious. So let’s continue on to see what else can cause the M3500 problems.

3. Jamming

So far, we’ve seen that the Stoeger M3500 can experience issues with feeding and cycling. The next issue we’ll look at is jamming, which can happen for a few different reasons. 

The most common cause of jamming in the Stoeger M3500 is the recoil spring. When this component is either too weak or too strong, it can cause the gun to jam. Additionally, a faulty magazine spring can also cause jamming. 

How to Fix It

Fortunately, the fix for this issue is fairly simple. First off, you need to check that your recoil spring is properly tensioned. If it is not, then you may need to replace it with a new one of the correct weight. Next, make sure the magazine spring is in working order. If it isn’t, you’ll need to replace that, too. 

It’s also important to make sure your ammo is of good quality and the correct size for your gun. Cheap or improperly sized rounds can cause jams in any firearm, so always double-check before shooting!

4. Bolt Jamming

Finally, bolt jamming can be a problem for Stoeger M3500 owners. This happens when the bolt handle refuses to engage with the bolt. 

If you’ve ever experienced bolt jamming with your other firearms, you already know the frustration. Thankfully, the solution is relatively easy; a little bit of gun oil and some gentle tapping should do the trick! 

Just make sure to clean it regularly so that this doesn’t become a recurring problem. It’s a hassle, but it beats having to take your firearm in for repairs or buy a new one altogether. To ensure that you complete this step properly, check out the instructions below for a complete overview and solution.

How to Fix It

Before attempting to resolve a bolt jamming problem, you first need to remove the bolt. On Stoeger M3500 shotguns, the bolt can be removed by pulling the bolt handle rearward, then pressing down on the release button at the top of the receiver. 

Now that you have access to the bolt’s components, use gun oil and a small brush to clean out any dirt or debris that may be blocking its movement. 

Once you’ve done this, you want to look for a small ball that rests inside the handle. There’s a hole where you can check to see if the ball is properly engaging with the bolt. If it isn’t, you’ll need something small, like a paperclip, to push it inwards. 

After that, it’s important to drop some lubricant on the ball to ensure that it doesn’t dry out; otherwise, you’ll be right back where you started. You will need something thin enough to get into the hole to effectively liberate the ball.

A Q-Tip works well here. Once you’ve done this, take a moment to verify that the bolt handle locks into place. If you determine that everything checks out, go ahead and start putting your firearm back together.