How to Clean a Rifle Barrel Presented by Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA

Published on March 20, 2009
Duration: 1:31

Proper rifle barrel cleaning is crucial for maintaining accuracy, especially when dealing with copper fouling. This guide details the necessary supplies, including a bore guide to protect rifling and prevent solvent contamination. It outlines a step-by-step process involving powder solvent for initial cleaning, a bronze brush for loosening fouling, and aggressive copper solvent for stubborn buildup, finishing with dry and oiled patches.

Quick Summary

Proper rifle barrel cleaning involves using a bore guide to protect rifling and prevent solvent contamination. Start with powder solvent, then use a bronze brush for fouling. For stubborn buildup, apply aggressive copper solvent until patches are clean, finishing with dry and oiled patches for protection.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Why Barrel Cleaning Matters
  2. 00:16Essential Rifle Cleaning Supplies
  3. 00:31Using a Bore Guide Correctly
  4. 00:38Initial Cleaning with Powder Solvent
  5. 00:51Brushing to Remove Fouling
  6. 01:02Tackling Copper Fouling & Final Protection

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential tools for cleaning a rifle barrel?

You'll need a one-piece cleaning rod, a bore guide to protect the rifling, cotton patches, a bronze brush, a jag, powder solvent, copper solvent, and gun oil for proper firearm maintenance.

How does a bore guide improve rifle cleaning?

A bore guide ensures the cleaning rod enters the barrel straight, preventing damage to the rifling. It also features an O-ring to seal the action and keep cleaning solvents from contaminating sensitive firearm components.

What is the recommended procedure for removing fouling from a rifle barrel?

Start by soaking a patch in powder solvent. Follow with about ten passes using a bronze brush, then more solvent patches. For copper fouling, use a dedicated copper solvent until patches come out clean, finishing with dry and oiled patches.

Why is removing copper fouling important for rifle accuracy?

Copper fouling, left unaddressed, can build up inside the barrel and alter the precise dimensions of the rifling. This buildup negatively impacts bullet flight, leading to reduced accuracy and potentially damaging the barrel over time.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from MidwayUSA

View all →