How To Clean A Cap-And-Ball Revolver

Published on December 23, 2017
Duration: 20:02

This guide details the proper cleaning of a Cap-and-Ball revolver, specifically the Colt Walker. It emphasizes safety, starting with ensuring the firearm is unloaded. The process involves disassembly, using a 'Moose Milk' solution (Ballistol and water) to neutralize black powder residue, and flushing with hot water to remove fouling. Detailed steps cover cleaning the barrel, cylinder chambers, and small parts, followed by lubrication with Ballistol and reassembly with anti-seize on nipple threads.

Quick Summary

To clean a Cap-and-Ball revolver, ensure it's unloaded, then disassemble. Use 'Moose Milk' (Ballistol and water) to neutralize residue and hot water to melt fouling. Clean all parts thoroughly, lubricate with Ballistol, and apply anti-seize to nipple threads before reassembly.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Safety
  2. 01:11Disassembly Steps
  3. 02:04Initial Cleaning with 'Moose Milk'
  4. 02:41Hot Water Flush for Fouling
  5. 04:43Cleaning Cylinder and Chambers
  6. 07:11Barrel and Frame Detail Cleaning
  7. 09:56Cleaning Small Parts and Nipples
  8. 13:11Lubrication with Ballistol
  9. 16:15Reassembly and Anti-Seize Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to clean a Cap-and-Ball revolver after shooting black powder?

Start by ensuring the firearm is unloaded. Disassemble the main components and use a solution like 'Moose Milk' (Ballistol and water) to neutralize black powder residue. Flush with hot water to remove fouling, clean all parts thoroughly, lubricate with Ballistol, and reassemble.

What is 'Moose Milk' for cleaning black powder firearms?

'Moose Milk' is a homemade cleaning solution typically made from water and Ballistol, often in a ratio between 10:1 and 5:1. It's effective at neutralizing corrosive black powder residue and preventing rust on firearms.

How do you prevent Cap-and-Ball revolver nipples from seizing?

To prevent nipples from seizing in the cylinder, apply a small amount of anti-seize lubricant, such as Thompson Center Super Lube, to the threads of the nipples before screwing them back into the cylinder during reassembly.

Why is hot water important when cleaning black powder firearms?

Hot running water is essential for cleaning black powder firearms because it effectively melts away black powder fouling and residue. This makes the subsequent cleaning process much more efficient and thorough, especially for the barrel and cylinder.

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