The Copper Fouling Lie ~ Don't Fall for It!

Published on March 20, 2023
Duration: 14:30

This video debunks the common concern over copper fouling in firearms, arguing it's a myth perpetuated by cleaning product marketing. The speaker posits that copper actually 'plates' barrels, smoothing imperfections and potentially improving accuracy over time, citing military practices and personal testing. He advises against aggressive copper solvents, suggesting they can damage barrels, and advocates for focusing on carbon removal instead.

Quick Summary

Copper fouling is often a myth; copper actually plates barrels, smoothing imperfections and potentially improving accuracy. Military cleaning focuses on carbon removal, not copper. Aggressive copper solvents can damage barrels, so avoid them and preserve your firearm's longevity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00The Copper Fouling Myth Debunked
  2. 01:38Military Cleaning: Carbon vs. Copper
  3. 03:40Accuracy Improvement with Copper Plating
  4. 05:13Drywall Analogy for Barrel Plating
  5. 07:17Rethinking Barrel Break-In Rituals
  6. 08:56Dangers of Harsh Copper Solvents
  7. 11:55Conclusion: Preserve Your Barrel

Frequently Asked Questions

Is copper fouling bad for rifle accuracy?

Contrary to popular belief, copper fouling may actually improve rifle accuracy. The copper from bullet jackets 'plates' the barrel, filling microscopic imperfections and creating a smoother surface that can enhance precision over time, rather than degrading it.

What is the military's approach to firearm cleaning regarding copper?

Department of Defense (DoD) literature primarily focuses on removing carbon fouling, not copper. Carbon attracts moisture and causes corrosion, which is the main concern. Military protocols use general cleaners like CLP without specialized copper solvents, even with high round counts.

Are copper solvents dangerous for firearms?

Yes, aggressive copper solvents can be dangerous. They are often caustic and can damage the steel of the barrel itself, potentially leading to premature wear or failure. It's advised to avoid them and focus on milder cleaning methods.

How does copper plating affect a firearm barrel?

Copper plating fills the microscopic striations left by the rifling process, similar to how mud fills screw holes in drywall. This creates a smoother bore surface. This unique plating is also what forensic ballistics uses to match bullets to specific barrels.

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