How to properly clean a firearm?
Cleaning and maintaining a firearm is a crucial aspect of ownership, ensuring its longevity and reliability. Many new gun owners feel overwhelmed by the vast array of cleaning products, accessories, and tools available. Questions arise about which products are the best, what tools to use, and what alternatives exist for traditional gun oils. In this article, we'll debunk some myths and provide proven methods for cleaning and maintaining firearms.
Choosing gun cleaning products
There are many gun cleaning products available on the market, ranging from well-known brands to cheaper alternatives. While all of these products have similar properties, their effectiveness and price can vary significantly. In practice, most products labeled as "gun oil" or "gun cleaner" can be replaced with cheaper industrial chemicals, such as those used in the automotive industry. For those who prefer ready-made solutions, a good choice would be a CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant) product, which combines cleaning, lubrication, and protection in one.
Gun cleaning kits for rifles, pistols, or shotguns
Gun cleaning kits are available in various sizes and can be tailored to the type and caliber of the firearm, or chosen as a universal solution. These kits typically include brushes, cotton swabs, cleaning rods, and other necessary items. In most cases, however, it is possible to assemble such a kit yourself, which is a cheaper and more flexible option. It is advisable to invest in brass, steel, and nylon brushes, which can be purchased at any hardware store, as well as cleaning ropes, which are an effective alternative to traditional barrel cleaning tools.
Cleaning a gun without a cleaning kit
In emergency situations where specialized tools are not available, an old toothbrush and some cloths can suffice for cleaning a firearm. A mixture of dish soap and water can be used as a degreaser, and the gun can be lubricated with kitchen oil, motor oil, or even gear oil. While this is not an ideal solution, it can be effective when no other options are available. It's important to remember that many firearms, especially those designed for combat, do not require frequent cleaning and can continue to function even in extreme conditions.
Alternatives to "Professional" cleaning products
Many professional cleaning products can be replaced with cheaper alternatives. For instance, instead of specialized gun degreasers, you can use brake cleaner spray, which is readily available at most automotive stores and works just as effectively. When it comes to oils, traditional motor or gear oils can successfully replace more expensive gun oils. It is also worth investing in white lithium grease, which is excellent for firearms that require frequent cleaning and can withstand high temperatures.
Cleaning and maintenance procedure
Always begin cleaning a firearm by ensuring it is unloaded. Then, disassemble the gun as needed, depending on the level of dirt and the cleaning requirements. Contrary to popular belief, a firearm does not need to be polished to shine in order to function correctly and avoid corrosion. Simply spray the inside of the gun with a penetrant, wait 10-20 minutes, and then scrub with brushes and picks. After thoroughly washing with a degreaser, protect the gun with grease or oil, and finally wipe it down with an oil-soaked cloth to leave a thin protective layer.
Cleaning and maintaining a firearm is not just a duty but also a skill worth mastering. The right tools and cleaning products can significantly simplify the task, but understanding which ones are truly necessary is equally important. With proper knowledge and a few practical tips, even the simplest methods can ensure the longevity and reliability of your firearm.