Any responsible gun owner knows that the key to keeping a gun safe and long-lasting is to clean it. Cleaning a rifle is not difficult to do, but doing so can help you avoid misfires and other unnecessary problems. This basic guide will help you get an idea of what is involved in cleaning a rifle.
Before you get started, safety is the name of the game. This means that, before anything else, you ensure that the rifle is unloaded. An accidental firing could be tragic. Also, when using bore solvent, make sure you are in an area with adequate ventilation. For details on how to properly clean your particular gun, consult your gun’s owner’s manual.
Making sure that the gun is unloaded, turn the safety off and remove the bolt, taking apart the gun. Now that you have the bore separated, apply bore solvent to the inside of the bore. You can use a ramrod or a bore mop, but apply solvent to the end of it and push it through the barrel of the gun. Once solvent has been applied, allow it to soak on the dirt for 10-20 minutes.
Take a brush and clean out the bore. Use a dry patch to clean the loosened fouling. Then, wipe down the bolt and the breech. If there is excessive dirt, do not be afraid to apply a little bore solvent to that as well, to break it up. Lightly oil the bolt and receiver with a microfiber cloth and then wipe down the entire gun. You want to avoid pooling of oil on the gun, as it can thicken and cause problems.
Any gun safety class should teach you how to properly clean your gun. But with this guide, you will have a general idea of what it takes to keep your gun clean. It is a big responsibility, but an important one if you want to be a good rifle owner.
