Proper Gun-Cleaning Techniques

Keeping your gun clean is more than just lubricating the parts and making it look nice. There is a safety element to making sure the barrel and action are clean of debris and gun powder residue, which can lead to dangerous misfires if not cleaned properly. Getting the weapon clean doesn't take much time and is worth the effort.

  1. Safety First

    • Before cleaning your gun, make sure that the weapon is unloaded and the clip is removed. Safety, when handling a gun, is always the first and foremost thing that should be on your mind. When your gun is disassembled, make sure to inspect for cracks or any other signs of damage. If any is found, take the weapon to a certified gunsmith for repairs.

    Disassembly

    • Consult the owner's manual regarding your weapon before you begin cleaning. Look for any warnings about disassembly and if there are areas that should not be cleaned. Disassembling a gun too far can lead to the weapon failing and incorrect firing. The only places that truly need to be cleaned on a gun are the chamber, bolt and barrel.

    Begin Cleaning

    • Begin by cleaning from the breech end of your weapon to prevent debris from falling into the gun and clogging it. If this is not possible, take all precautions possible such as extremely slow cleaning. Use a patch holder, which is available in any gun-cleaning kit, and connect a clean patch to the end. Put No. 10 solvent, available at most outfitter stores, on the patch and run down the barrel to soak it. When the patch becomes visible at the other end of the bore, remove it to prevent the debris it has gathered from falling back into the barrel when you pull it out again. According to Kleen-Bore's website, let the solvent soak for five minutes.

    Brush the Bore

    • Remove the patch holder from your gun-cleaning rod and attach the bore brush. Dip the brush in solvent and then work it back and forth inside the bore several times. This will help remove any carbon buildup from the shots that have been fired and is important for cleaning away stubborn debris.

    Patch Work

    • Working with the patch holder again, push a soaked patch down the bore, removing each time it is visible on the other end. Use a clean patch for each push, repeating the process until, according to Shootnhunt's website, a clean patch comes out the other end of the bore. Run a dry patch down the barrel to sop up any remaining solvent. Lightly coat a final patch with gun lubricant --- or 3-in-1 oil --- and run it down the barrel to leave a small amount of rust prevention inside.

    Clean the Action and Reassemble

    • Use a nylon brush dipped in solvent to clean in and around the action parts. With a clean cloth and small amounts of lubricant, rub down the action and all moving parts such as the bolt and the safety mechanism. Verify the barrel is clean of debris. Once you're finished, reassemble the gun according to the owner's manual.