Super Dirty AR15! How to Clean a Cobalt Kinetics Rifle

Published on November 26, 2022
Duration: 27:46

This guide details the comprehensive cleaning process for a heavily fouled Cobalt Kinetics Pro Series AR-15 rifle, emphasizing the use of Radco CLP to break down stubborn carbon buildup. The instructor, Joe, demonstrates a thorough field strip, component cleaning, inspection for potential failure points like the cam pin and bolt, and reassembly. He highlights that while the rifle ran despite extreme neglect, regular cleaning is crucial for reliability, and advocates for a practical approach rather than a spotless deep clean for everyday maintenance.

Quick Summary

For heavy carbon buildup on an AR-15, generously apply a quality CLP like Radco CLP to the affected components, allowing it to soak for several minutes. This breaks down the fouling, making it easier to wipe away with rags and simple tools like popsicle sticks or toothbrushes. Always inspect critical parts like the firing pin and cam pin for damage.

Chapters

  1. 00:41Safety Check & Disassembly
  2. 01:01Upper Receiver Breakdown
  3. 01:14Bolt Carrier Group - Initial State
  4. 02:22Cleaning Supplies & Tools
  5. 03:46Cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group
  6. 04:19Disassembling the Bolt
  7. 05:01Cam Pin & Firing Pin Inspection
  8. 06:09Bolt Carrier Group Soaking
  9. 07:27Cleaning Firing Pin & Charging Handle
  10. 09:56Cam Pin Inspection Details
  11. 10:46Cleaning the Lower Receiver
  12. 14:04Cleaning the Upper Receiver
  13. 14:46Cleaning the Bolt
  14. 19:37Bolt Cleaning Results
  15. 20:00Upper Receiver Cleaning Details
  16. 22:20Advanced Upper Receiver Cleaning
  17. 22:46Reassembly - Bolt Carrier Group
  18. 24:48Reassembly - Charging Handle
  19. 26:10Final Reassembly
  20. 26:36Post-Cleaning Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to clean heavy carbon buildup on an AR-15?

For heavy carbon buildup on an AR-15, generously apply a quality CLP like Radco CLP to the affected components, allowing it to soak for several minutes. This breaks down the fouling, making it easier to wipe away with rags and simple tools like popsicle sticks or toothbrushes.

What are the critical failure points to inspect on an AR-15 bolt carrier group?

Key failure points on an AR-15 bolt carrier group include the firing pin tip, which can break or bend causing malfunctions, and the cam pin, which can snap. Always inspect the bolt for intact gas rings, extractor, and ejector, and check the bolt itself for cracks, especially around the cam pin hole.

Can an AR-15 still run reliably if it's very dirty?

Yes, an AR-15 can continue to run reliably even when very dirty, provided it is adequately lubricated. However, extreme neglect can eventually lead to malfunctions, and regular cleaning is essential for long-term reliability and preventing component damage.

What simple tools can be used for AR-15 cleaning?

Effective and simple tools for cleaning an AR-15 include old T-shirt rags for wiping, popsicle sticks and skewers for scraping and reaching tight spots, and a toothbrush for scrubbing stubborn carbon. These, combined with a good solvent, can handle most cleaning tasks.

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