EP 115: Instructors Corner | Cleaning Your Rifle

Published on July 7, 2022
Duration: 51:30

This guide details a comprehensive rifle bore cleaning process, emphasizing preventative measures against carbon rings and effective removal of copper fouling. It highlights the importance of using specific cleaning agents like KG 111 for carbon and KG 1212 for copper, along with KG 222 Bore Shine for preventative maintenance. The procedure stresses the use of a bore guide and proper flushing with carb cleaner to ensure optimal firearm performance and longevity.

Quick Summary

Regular rifle cleaning is essential for maintaining accuracy and preventing pressure issues. Signs of fouling include stiff bolt lift and consistent shifts in point of impact. For hunting calibers, cleaning around every 60 rounds is recommended, while high-volume shooting may require cleaning every 200 rounds. Using a bore guide and avoiding brass brushes are key practices for barrel longevity.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Rifle Cleaning
  2. 01:47When NOT to Clean Your Rifle
  3. 03:13Indicators of a Fouled Barrel
  4. 06:53Cleaning Frequency & Round Counts
  5. 09:49Factors Affecting Fouling (Powder, Suppressors)
  6. 17:00How Fouling Builds Up in Barrels
  7. 19:36Copper vs. Carbon Solvents
  8. 21:08Loose Debris vs. Carbon Deposits
  9. 22:31The LRU Cleaning Process
  10. 23:54Step 1: Carbon Cleaning
  11. 27:02Step 2: Copper Cleaning
  12. 32:14Step 3: Bore Shine for Prevention
  13. 33:07Step 4: Flushing with Carb Cleaner
  14. 34:24Step 5: Dry Patching & Oil
  15. 42:00Cleaning Don'ts: Rods & Bore Snakes
  16. 46:33Don't Clean Without a Bore Guide
  17. 47:54Don't Over-Clean Your Barrel
  18. 49:13Extreme Cleaning Methods (Showers/Dishwashers)
  19. 50:33Conclusion & Future Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs that a rifle barrel needs cleaning?

Signs include a stiff bolt lift, 'smiley faces' on brass indicating high pressure, consistent shifts in point of impact (e.g., hitting high at a known distance), increased extreme spreads on a chronograph, or occasional high shots that become more frequent.

How often should I clean my rifle?

Cleaning frequency varies. For hunting calibers, around 60 rounds is a good benchmark. For high-volume shooting like in schools, it might be every 200 rounds. Suppressed rifles may require cleaning more often, potentially halving the interval.

What are the main types of fouling in a rifle barrel?

The primary types of fouling are copper, which builds up on the muzzle end, and carbon, which typically deposits near the chamber end due to heat and pressure. Carbon is generally more stubborn to remove.

Why is using a bore guide important when cleaning a rifle?

A bore guide is crucial to keep solvents out of the action and trigger group, preventing potential malfunctions. It also centers the cleaning rod, protecting the bore's lead and crown from damage caused by scraping.

What are the risks of using brass brushes for cleaning precision rifle bores?

Brass brushes can abrade the rifle's crown, the last point of contact for the bullet. Over time, this can 'cone' the crown, negatively impacting accuracy. Nylon brushes are a safer alternative for precision barrels.

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