Cleaning your rifle after firing Corrosive Surplus Military Ammunition

Published on October 5, 2011
Duration: 5:33

This guide details the essential steps for cleaning corrosive ammunition residue from a rifle, as demonstrated by Iraqveteran8888. It emphasizes understanding the chemical nature of corrosive primers and using appropriate water-based or ammonia-based cleaners to neutralize salts. The process involves thorough scrubbing from the chamber end with a correctly sized brush and rod, followed by patching until clean, and finally applying a protective lubricant. Proper tools and techniques are crucial for preventing bore damage and rust.

Quick Summary

To clean corrosive ammunition residue, use water-based or ammonia-based cleaners like Windex or Birchwood Casey Muzzle Magic to dissolve the hygroscopic salts left by primers. Clean from the chamber end with a properly sized bore brush, scrubbing and patching until clean, then apply a protective lubricant like Ballistol to prevent rust and bore damage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Understanding Corrosive Ammunition
  2. 01:45Recommended Cleaning Agents
  3. 02:45Tools and Setup
  4. 03:12Cleaning Procedure

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes rust after shooting corrosive ammunition?

Corrosive primers leave behind hygroscopic salts, such as potassium chloride, which attract moisture from the air. This moisture then reacts with the steel in the barrel, leading to rapid rusting and pitting if not neutralized and removed promptly.

What are the best cleaners for corrosive ammunition residue?

Water-based or ammonia-based cleaners are most effective. Options include household glass cleaner (like Windex), hot soapy water, or specialized products like Birchwood Casey Muzzle Magic Cleaner No. 77. These dissolve the salts, unlike oil-based solvents which may just coat them.

What tools are needed to clean a rifle after firing corrosive ammo?

Essential tools include a cleaning rod (preferably coated graphite), a bore brush of the correct caliber (e.g., .311 for 7.62x54R), cleaning patches, a gun vise for stability, and appropriate cleaning solutions and lubricants like Ballistol.

What is the correct technique for cleaning a rifle bore with corrosive residue?

Always clean from the chamber end. Saturate a correctly sized bore brush with a water-based cleaner, scrub the bore thoroughly, and then run clean patches through until they come out spotless. Never change the brush's direction mid-bore.

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