How to Clean a Single Action Revolver : Tips & Tricks

Published on May 2, 2023
Duration: 15:59

This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for cleaning single-action revolvers, covering both Ruger and Colt-style designs. It emphasizes proper disassembly, thorough cleaning of the barrel, cylinder, and frame components, and correct reassembly with lubrication. The instruction is delivered with a high degree of authority, suitable for intermediate firearm owners.

Quick Summary

Cleaning a single-action revolver involves disassembling the cylinder, grips, and ejector housing. Use bore solvent and a brush for the barrel, followed by clean patches and a light oil coat. Thoroughly clean the frame, cylinder, and internal components, then reassemble with light lubrication on moving parts like the ejector rod and base pin.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Single Action Revolvers
  2. 00:40Otis Cleaning Kit Overview
  3. 00:50Three Steps: Disassemble, Clean, Reassemble
  4. 00:54Ruger Black Hawk vs. Colt Style Differences
  5. 01:04Opening Loading Gate & Half-Cock
  6. 01:27Removing the Cylinder
  7. 01:41Removing Grips
  8. 01:57Removing Ejector Housing & Spring
  9. 02:14Removing Ejector Rod & Base Pin
  10. 02:33Colt Style Cylinder Pin/Sleeve Cleaning
  11. 02:54Grip Removal (Non-Removable Style)
  12. 03:22Securing Barrel in Vise
  13. 03:42Assembling Cleaning Rod & Jag
  14. 04:01Barrel Cleaning: Solvent & Patches
  15. 04:32Barrel Cleaning: Bore Brush
  16. 04:47Barrel Cleaning: Final Patches
  17. 05:35Barrel Cleaning: Light Oil Coat
  18. 06:03Cleaning Frame Components
  19. 06:54Cylinder Cleaning
  20. 07:44Cleaning Cylinder Face & Firing Pin Area
  21. 08:40Cleaning Center Part of Cylinder & Ejector Housing
  22. 09:39Cleaning Ejector Rod & Base Pin
  23. 10:00Lubricating Ejector Rod, Base Pin, Springs
  24. 10:31Lubricating Frame Components
  25. 10:51Reassembly: Grips
  26. 11:06Reassembly: Cylinder & Base Pin
  27. 11:45Reassembly: Ejector Housing
  28. 12:04Final Check & Storage Protection
  29. 12:51Otis Kit Convenience
  30. 13:15Conclusion & Maintenance Importance

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences when cleaning a Ruger single action revolver versus a Colt style?

When cleaning, Colt-style single-action revolvers often require placing the hammer on half-cock to spin the cylinder, whereas Ruger revolvers allow the cylinder to spin freely. Additionally, Ruger revolvers typically retain their base pin during disassembly, simplifying reassembly.

What tools are essential for cleaning a single action revolver?

Essential tools include a multi-caliber cleaning kit with a brass rod, appropriate caliber jag and bore brush, cleaning cloths, bore solvent, and a lubricant like CLP. A vise with jaw protectors is highly recommended for securing the firearm during barrel cleaning.

How do you properly clean the barrel of a single action revolver?

Start by applying bore solvent to a patch and running it through the barrel. Let it sit, then use a bore brush about ten times. Follow with clean patches until they come out spotless, and finish with a light coat of CLP for protection.

What are the key areas to focus on when cleaning a single action revolver's frame and cylinder?

Pay close attention to the frame's crevices, the area around the firing pin, and the barrel face. For the cylinder, thoroughly clean the area where rounds fire, as it accumulates significant fouling. Also, clean the cylinder's face and the center part where the base pin is.

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