How to Clear Cocking Serrations

Cocking serrations are part of the external design on some semi-automatic handguns. Located on the slide near the muzzle or receiver, serrations help with cocking and assembly of the weapon. Serrations are vertical or slightly angled grooves cut into the slide that provide a secure point for gripping the slide. The grooved serrations catch and hold dirt, mud and other debris during normal use, however, and cleaning them is necessary to prevent damage to the weapon.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft bristle brush
  • External gun scrub
  • Rag
  • Gun oil
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the magazine from the handgun and place it to the side. Pull back the slide to view the firing chamber. Make sure there is no ammunition in the weapon.

    • 2

      Remove dirt and debris from the cocking serrations on the slide of the weapon. Use a soft bristle brush to work as much material from the grooves as possible.

    • 3

      Apply a small amount of external gun scrub to the serrations. Allow the spray to penetrate stubborn stains for a few seconds.

    • 4

      Wipe the loosened dirt and debris from the serrations with a rag.

    • 5

      Apply a thin film of gun oil to the serrations and the entire surface of the weapon as a protective coating.