GOT A DIRTY GUN? BASIC GUN CLEANING & MAINTENANCE | Tactical Rifleman

Ben Stoeger outlines a pragmatic approach to firearm maintenance, differentiating between critical 'match' guns and more forgiving 'training' guns. He emphasizes that most firearms can reach 10-20k rounds with basic cleaning and lubrication, with optic batteries being a common wear item. For higher round counts or critical competition use, preventative maintenance and part replacement become essential. Stoeger's core philosophy for mitigating issues is maintaining a robust system of backup firearms.

This video explains why common household products like WD-40, transmission fluid, and brake fluid are unsuitable for firearm maintenance. It details the four key criteria for selecting a proper firearm lubricant: temperature range, gunk handling, system compatibility, and side effects. The instructor emphasizes that WD-40's residue and water-displacing properties can lead to operational issues and rust, while other alternatives have temperature or compatibility problems. Firearm-specific CLPs are recommended for their balanced properties and ease of use.

This guide outlines a 10-minute monthly maintenance routine for AR-15 owners to ensure longevity and prevent malfunctions. It emphasizes proper lubrication of the bolt carrier group (BCG) and strategic cleaning, rather than excessive scrubbing. Key steps include the gas ring test and careful barrel cleaning to avoid damaging the crown.

This guide focuses on maximizing the learning experience in an AR-15 armorer's class. It emphasizes the importance of pre-class preparation, including practicing basic assembly/disassembly and becoming proficient with essential hand tools. The advice extends to active participation during the class, encouraging students to pay attention, maintain an open mind, and consider investing in quality tools. The goal is to enable students to focus on the technical instruction rather than struggling with fundamental tasks.

This video captures a chaotic but informative gun range session. It highlights the importance of proper firearm maintenance, specifically the application of CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant) to ensure smooth operation. The participants also discuss and demonstrate aspects of range etiquette, including the necessity of adequate hearing protection due to the loud acoustics of firearms, and touch upon recoil management and shooting technique.

This guide details a basic cleaning procedure for an AR-15, recommended every 500 rounds. It covers field stripping the upper receiver, cleaning the barrel with a bore snake, cleaning the bolt carrier group (BCG), and proper lubrication of key contact points. The process emphasizes not over-lubricating to prevent carbon buildup. The video is presented by Justin from Palmetto State Armory.

Instruction from Karl Erickson of Tactical Rifleman demonstrates a critical close-quarters combat technique: using a tactical fixed blade knife to create space when an opponent attempts to grab a pistol. The video highlights the risks of close-range pistol draws and advocates for a knife transition to safely disengage and re-establish a firing platform. This technique emphasizes anatomical targets for creating distance rather than immediate lethal force.

This guide details a Navy SEAL's CQC room clearing technique, emphasizing 'economy of motion' and precise footwork. It highlights the critical 'long step' maneuver for maintaining balance and readiness when entering a corner-fed room, contrasting it with the dangerous 'short step.' The instruction, delivered by a subject matter expert, focuses on life-saving fundamentals for tactical proficiency.

This guide details an emergency ammo resupply technique using a standard USGI 6-Pocket Bandolier, as demonstrated by Karl Erickson from Tactical Rifleman. It explains how to utilize the bandolier's expandable pockets, designed for 5.56mm magazines, to rapidly pack ammunition for field resupply. The technique emphasizes efficient loading and compact storage for integration into tactical kits.

This video provides an expert-level ballistic gelatin test comparing 9mm and .45 ACP defensive ammunition. Instruction comes from Pete, a retired USSF member, who details the performance of Barnes TAC-XPD 9mm and Cor-Bon Pow'R Ball .45 ACP. The comparison focuses on penetration depth, wound cavitation, and feeding reliability, particularly for 1911 platforms.