A handgun is not a toy. If you need to disassemble a handgun, you must do so with the utmost caution and care. But in order to successfully clean it, it must be completely unloaded and pointed in a safe direction. Always check the gun thoroughly to make sure it is clean before you begin. When cleaning a gun, the owner must remember safety first. Accidents happen far more than you believe.
Once the gun is clear of ammunition, you can start the cleaning process. Depending on the type of gun you are cleaning, it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s guide for removing the slide. Always watch out for small parts that can get lost and place them to the side either in a container or on a towel so as to avoid giving them a chance to roll around or disappear on you.
Solvent traps
Some gun owners buy solvent trap kits to help maintain their weapons. This kit has a tube that is attached to the barrel of a gun to capture cleaning agents. Once the cleaning is finished, the tube is removed and the solvents are discarded. You can obtain solvent traps mostly anywhere, from a gun store to Walmart to the internet on sites such as Solvent Traps Direct.
The Cleaning Process
Once you get to the barrel of the gun bore cleaner should be applied. A cleaning rod is used to clean the barrel thoroughly. Once the bore cleaner is used to clean, take several dry patches to soak up the excess and let dry. For hard-to-reach places, use swabs. They are an effective tool for getting fouled areas.
Once everything is cleaned, it’s time to lubricate the gun. Depending on the type of gun, you will lubricate the bearings, outside surfaces, rails, and springs. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
You can use small brushes, Q-tips, or soft cloths to clean areas. Be sure to remove particles, dirt, in all areas. Be sure to wipe the chamber, frame, and other areas that have a significant amount of dust and dirt.
Light on Lubricants
It is not a good idea to apply lubricants inside the weapon’s chamber. This can lead to misfires or catastrophic failure. Unfortunately, some gun owners don’t understand that less lubricant is more. Excessive residue can cause many problems.
What to do After Cleaning
Once your gun is cleaned, wipe it down thoroughly. Make sure it’s clean and dry and all moisture is removed. You can also wax your gun to give it a good shine. Now that the cleaning process is over, you must now reassemble the weapon. Make sure every piece is put back together properly to avoid accidents, consulting your owner’s manual if you have to.
Part of being a responsible gun owner is taking proper care of your firearm. This includes cleaning the weapon periodically, either more or less depending on how much you use it and what you use it for. As always, it’s imperative that you’re careful when handling any sort of weapon, especially if you’re taking that weapon apart. Always be sure to know where all the parts of your gun end up and how exactly they should be put back together.