You Need These Tools To Clean Your Gun

Like other tools, your gun needs proper maintenance. It’s a precision weapon and its function depends on its upkeep. Every time you pull the trigger, some residue and sediments are deposited on the inner side of the barrel. And so, cleaning your gun after every practice is recommended.

Not many of us particularly enjoy the cleaning process, but we do it to ensure safe and efficient functioning of our weapons. If you ever want to sell your weapon, ignoring its basic maintenance will devalue your gun. Here are several tools making your job easier.

Cleaning Fluids

Four different types of cleaning fluids are used, mostly in succession:

Solvent- removes lead, carbon and other debris from the bore.

Degreaser- cleans the moving parts of your gun by removing dirt and oil.

Lubricant- lubricates various parts and protects against rust.

Protectant- Water displacing protectant repels water and prevents rusting if the weapon is exposed to rough conditions.

Cleaning Rod, Patch Holder and Patches

These are used together for cleaning the bore. Cleaning patches (wipes) are available in bulk. They are soaked in lubricant to clean the less stubborn debris and loosen the rest of the debris from the bore.

It will allow other chemicals to work. Do not re-use a dirty patch as it will only resettle the debris inside the bore.

Patches are held onto cleaning rod with the help of a patch holder. Cleaning rods come in segments as one-piece for rifles. Before using the rod, keep in mind that it can damage the barrel. Slightest damage on the crown of your barrel will affect the accuracy of your gun. Consider using a brass model for handguns and carbon fiber rod for rifles.

Cleaning Brush

Choose a bronze cleaning brush so that it does not damage the barrel. These brushes come in different sizes and bore diameters. They easily attach to the end of a cleaning rod. Always buy more than one brush as they wear down easily.

Gun Toothbrush

Although you can use any brush, these gun-specific ones are designed to reach every nook and cranny. It can even clean out trigger parts and slide grooves. You can use either nylon or brass ones for your weapon.

Additional Tools

These tools are not necessary but useful to have around. Bore guide help prevent solvent dripping into the receiver as well as keeps the rod centered to avoid damage. Cleaning pads prevent the solvent from leaking. Swabs can be used to clean smaller, hard-to-reach spaces. Cleaning cradles hold your rifles in place as you scrub the bore.

Cleaned up your rifle and ready for a practice shooting session? Pack your weapon in a gun range bag or tuck it in in-the-pants holsters, such as the ones sold at WRB.