Protip for New Gun Owners || How to Quickly Clean and Lube an AR

Published on April 8, 2020
Duration: 16:21

This guide provides a quick and dirty method for cleaning and lubricating an AR-15 platform rifle, suitable for new gun owners. The focus is on maintaining functionality rather than achieving a spotless finish, with an emphasis on cleaning the bolt carrier group and chamber. The presenter, an experienced firearms instructor, demonstrates a practical approach that prioritizes keeping the firearm running reliably over meticulous detailing, suggesting this method is sufficient for thousands of rounds between deep cleans.

Quick Summary

For a quick AR-15 clean, use oil on the bolt carrier group to attract less gunk and grease on the receiver rails for proper distribution. Focus on cleaning the bolt carrier group, chamber, and critical contact points for reliable function, rather than achieving a spotless finish.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and New Gun Owners
  2. 00:23AR-15 vs. CMMG Mark 47 Mutant
  3. 02:00Disassembling the Bolt Carrier Group
  4. 02:39Focus on the Bolt Carrier Group
  5. 03:03Cleaning the Firing Pin
  6. 03:33Removing the Cam Pin
  7. 04:18Cleaning the Bolt
  8. 05:32Cleaning the Extractor
  9. 07:10Cleaning the Carrier Body
  10. 08:07Cleaning the Bolt Bore
  11. 10:26Cleaning the Upper Receiver and Chamber
  12. 12:07Lubrication Strategy (Oil vs. Grease)
  13. 13:14Cleaning the Lower Receiver
  14. 14:07Buffer and Spring Maintenance
  15. 14:39Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best lubricant for an AR-15 bolt carrier group?

For a quick clean and to attract less gunk, oil is recommended for the AR-15 bolt carrier group. Grease is better suited for the receiver rails where it can distribute effectively as the gun cycles.

How often should I deep clean my AR-15?

According to this expert, a quick clean like the one demonstrated is sufficient for thousands of rounds. Deep cleaning is only necessary about once a year, even with high round counts, for firearms used regularly.

What are the key areas to focus on when cleaning an AR-15 bolt carrier group?

The most critical areas on the AR-15 bolt carrier group are the rails that contact the upper receiver and the interior bore where the bolt rides. Also, ensure the extractor is clean and inspected for damage.

Does my AR-15 need to be spotless after every range trip?

No, an AR-15 does not need to be spotless to function reliably. This expert emphasizes a practical approach, stating that a 'reasonably clean enough' state is sufficient for thousands of rounds between more thorough cleanings.

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