Maintaining your AR-15 rifle requires regular cleaning, and the barrel is a crucial component needing attention. A clean barrel ensures accuracy, reliability, and extends the lifespan of your firearm. This guide provides a step-by-step process for effectively cleaning your AR-15 barrel, covering everything from necessary tools to troubleshooting common issues.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the following:
- AR-15 Barrel Cleaning Kit: These kits typically include a cleaning rod (preferably one-piece to avoid damage), bore brush (appropriate for your caliber), patches, and a jag. Consider a kit with a guide rod to prevent damage to the crown.
- Solvent: Choose a high-quality solvent specifically designed for firearms. Many options are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Research and choose one that suits your needs and shooting conditions.
- Gun Oil: A good quality gun oil is essential for lubrication after cleaning.
- Cleaning Patches: These absorb the solvent and remove fouling from the barrel. Use patches appropriate for your caliber.
- Protective Gear: Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from chemicals and potential injuries.
- Container for Used Patches: A container to dispose of used patches safely.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
1. Disassembly:
- Safety First: Always ensure your firearm is unloaded and cleared before beginning any cleaning process. Double-check!
- Field Strip: Carefully disassemble your AR-15 to access the barrel. Consult your firearm's manual if unsure about the proper disassembly procedure. This typically involves removing the upper receiver from the lower receiver. Then, remove the bolt carrier group (BCG).
2. Initial Cleaning:
- Brush the Barrel: Attach the bore brush to the cleaning rod and apply a generous amount of solvent to the brush. Carefully run the brush through the barrel from the chamber end to the muzzle several times. This will loosen the carbon buildup and other fouling. Avoid excessive force to prevent damaging the barrel's rifling.
3. Patching:
- Solvent Patches: After brushing, attach a patch to the jag and run it through the barrel, pushing the loosened fouling out. Repeat this process several times with fresh, solvent-saturated patches until the patches emerge clean.
4. Final Cleaning:
- Dry Patches: Once the solvent patches are clean, run several dry patches through the barrel to remove any remaining solvent. This ensures the barrel is completely clean and dry.
5. Lubrication:
- Oil the Barrel: After completely drying the barrel, lightly lubricate the bore with a high-quality gun oil. A small amount is all that's necessary.
6. Reassembly:
- Reassemble Carefully: Carefully reassemble your AR-15, ensuring all parts are correctly seated. Refer to your owner's manual for detailed instructions.
Frequency of Cleaning
The frequency of cleaning depends on various factors, including shooting conditions and ammunition type. As a general rule, cleaning after every 200-300 rounds is a good practice. However, cleaning more frequently is advisable if shooting in particularly dirty environments or using corrosive ammunition.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Stuck Patches: If a patch gets stuck in the barrel, avoid excessive force. Try using a solvent to loosen the patch. If necessary, seek professional help.
- Barrel Damage: Improper cleaning techniques can damage the barrel. Always use the correct tools and avoid excessive force.
- Incomplete Cleaning: If the patches continue to emerge dirty after multiple attempts, consider using a different solvent or cleaning technique.
Conclusion
Regular and proper cleaning is crucial for maintaining your AR-15's accuracy, reliability, and longevity. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step process, but always remember to consult your firearm's owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. Always prioritize safety and take your time to ensure a thorough and damage-free cleaning process.
