How to Clean a Handgun

Published on July 31, 2017
Duration: 32:26

This guide details essential handgun cleaning procedures, emphasizing safety and proper technique. It covers selecting appropriate cleaning supplies, field stripping a Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0, and cleaning components like the barrel, slide, and frame. Proper lubrication and function testing are highlighted to ensure firearm reliability.

Quick Summary

To clean a handgun, start by ensuring it's unloaded. Field strip the firearm, then use solvents like Hoppe's No. 9 to clean the barrel, slide, and frame. Apply lubricants sparingly to wear points and reassemble. Finally, perform a function test and clean your holster.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Equipment Overview
  2. 02:05Safety and Cleaning Compounds
  3. 03:16Solvents, Oils, and Lubricants
  4. 05:22Unloading and Field Stripping
  5. 09:04Inspection and Barrel Cleaning
  6. 11:56Cleaning the Slide and Frame
  7. 15:22Holster Maintenance
  8. 18:33Lubrication and Reassembly
  9. 20:03Function Testing and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What essential equipment is needed for basic handgun cleaning?

You'll need cleaning rags (like cut-up t-shirts), specialized swabs (Swab-its), commercial patches, cleaning rods (like Dewey), 9mm cleaning brushes, nitrile gloves, solvents (Hoppe's No. 9), and lubricants (LPS 2 or ALG Go-Juice).

How do you safely field strip a Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 for cleaning?

First, ensure the handgun is unloaded by removing the magazine and visually inspecting the chamber. Then, rotate the takedown latch, release the slide, and carefully remove the guide rod and barrel.

What are common mistakes to avoid when cleaning a handgun?

Avoid starting without ensuring the firearm is unloaded. Also, refrain from over-lubricating, as excess oil attracts debris. Don't forget to clean your holster, as grit inside can damage the firearm's finish.

Why is cleaning your handgun holster important?

Accumulated grit and debris inside a holster can act like sandpaper. Drawing and re-holstering your firearm repeatedly can cause scratches and wear on the gun's finish.

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