Cleaning your rifle after firing Corrosive Surplus Military Ammunition

Published on October 5, 2011
Duration: 5:33

This video details the critical process of cleaning rifles after firing corrosive surplus ammunition, specifically the 7.62x54R caliber. It highlights the necessity of using water-based or ammonia-based cleaners like Windex or hot soapy water to neutralize hygroscopic salts left by corrosive primers, preventing rust and pitting. The demonstration uses a Mosin-Nagant 91/30 and emphasizes proper cleaning techniques from the chamber end with a .311 bore brush.

Quick Summary

Clean corrosive ammo residue using water-based cleaners like Windex or hot soapy water to neutralize hygroscopic salts. Scrub the bore from the chamber end with a suitable brush, run clean patches until spotless, and finish with a protective oil like Ballistol to prevent rust.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Understanding Corrosive Ammunition
  2. 01:45Recommended Cleaning Agents
  3. 02:45Tools and Setup
  4. 03:12Cleaning Procedure

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is cleaning corrosive ammo residue important?

Corrosive primers leave salts that attract moisture, causing rapid rusting and pitting in the rifle bore. Neutralizing these salts with water-based cleaners is crucial for long-term firearm preservation and accuracy.

What cleaners are best for corrosive ammo residue?

Water-based or ammonia-based cleaners are recommended. Effective options include household glass cleaner (like Windex), hot soapy water (Dawn), or specialty products like Birchwood Casey Muzzle Magic.

What tools are needed to clean corrosive residue?

You'll need a cleaning rod (preferably coated), a bore brush slightly oversized for your caliber (e.g., .311 for 7.62x54R), patches, a water-based cleaner, and a protective oil like Ballistol.

What is the correct technique for cleaning a rifle bore?

Always clean from the chamber end towards the muzzle. Saturate the brush with cleaner, scrub the bore, and run patches through until they come out clean. Never reverse the brush direction mid-bore.

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