How well I clean my firearm

[aeropb]

the working guns get cleaned enough to keep working. the sentimental guns get it thorough.

 

[MoBoost]

If it still works, don't clean it.

I don't clean 'em unless there is something broke - and usually cleaning don't fix it either (other than gummed up 22s).

I've seen A LOT barrels damaged by cleaning, and only few by not cleaning.

My best group AND score was shot with a rifle on the 6th 60-round (plus sighters/foulers) match without touching it.

I've left a muzzle loader loaded for a year. I used Bore-Butter as a lubricant. I've shot it (it did btw) and cleaned - no damage what-so-ever.

Good read here: http://www.6mmbr.com/borecleaning.html

 

[tRidiot]

What kind of damage have you seen to barrels from cleaning them?

 

[MoBoost]

Crowns ... lots of crowns.

If your rod doesn't fit the bore just right, on a back stroke the base of the brush/jag hits the crown, at the bottom of the barrel, every stroke. Lots of guys don't "back-stroke" and remove the brush/jag just for that reason.

 

[Stan Upchurch]

Thank you MoBoost for even though I can not remember weather I cleaned my weapons, after reading the article... I now know that maybe I just clean them to much.

 

[MoBoost]

More opinions that "matter" here: http://www.6mmbr.com/borebrushing.html
http://www.6mmbr.com/gunweek053.html
http://www.6mmbr.com/gunweek088.html

 

[beast1989]

I used to be in the OCD cleaning crowd but I now only do a field strip clean every two or three range trips. I do oil the guns every two weeks or so just to keep a protective coat on them.

 

[vtdw]

I give them a thorough cleaning right after deer season and if using them or handling them I just wipe em down with a Fluid Film soaked rag. That stuff is sold at John Deere dealers and really clings to metal!

Dave

 

[Bhop]

when I first get them I run them until they stop working or until im satisfied they are reliable what I learn from this time determines how often they get cleaned.

 

[ExSniper]

Most people do more damage to their guns while cleaning than they ever will firing them. It is a tool, light cleaning and wipe down will suffice for most uses. If you shoot a lot or leave the weapon exposed to the elements, then perhaps a little more detail is necessary.