How to Clean Lever Guns

Published on February 10, 2015
Duration: 56:02

This guide details the proper cleaning of lever-action rifles, emphasizing unique considerations like wood stock saturation and action debris. It covers essential tools, safe firearm setup in a vise, bore and crown protection, and specific advice for models like the Winchester 94. The video stresses avoiding over-oiling wood stocks and using compressed air for internal action cleaning.

Quick Summary

Proper lever-action rifle cleaning involves protecting wood stocks from over-oiling and securing the firearm in a vise with wooden cauls. Use caliber-specific bronze brushes and solvent for the bore, protecting the muzzle crown. For the action, use compressed air to remove debris instead of heavy lubrication.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Lever Gun Cleaning
  2. 00:47Essential Cleaning Tools and Supplies
  3. 07:37Firearm Setup and Vise Usage
  4. 10:09Danger of Over-Oiling Wood Stocks
  5. 14:33Bore Cleaning and Crown Protection
  6. 16:31Brushing and Patching Techniques
  7. 18:46Action Maintenance and Debris Removal
  8. 21:11Winchester Model 94 Specifics

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key risks when cleaning lever-action rifle wood stocks?

The primary risk is over-oiling, especially around the receiver tang where exposed end-grain wood can become saturated. This saturation can lead to darkening of the wood and potential structural weakening over time.

What tools are essential for cleaning lever-action rifles?

Essential tools include a bore light, nylon and bronze bore brushes (caliber-specific), cleaning jags, flannel patches, cleaning rods (like Dewey), bore snakes, Hoppe's No. 9 solvent, and gun oil. A heavy bench vise with wooden cauls is also recommended for securing the firearm.

How should the bore and muzzle crown be cleaned on a lever-action rifle?

Use a bore swab with solvent, ensuring the cleaning rod remains concentric to avoid damaging the muzzle crown, which is vital for accuracy. Bronze brushes are recommended for loosening carbon deposits effectively.

What is the best method for cleaning the internal action of a lever-action rifle?

Avoid heavy oiling. Instead, use compressed air at around 15 PSI to blow out primer residue, powder, and field debris like dirt or pine needles. This keeps the action clean and functional without attracting excess grime.

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