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Cleaning the AR-15: A Comprehensive Guide
Keeping your AR-15 in top condition is crucial for both performance and safety. Regular cleaning ensures that your firearm operates smoothly and reduces the risk of malfunctions. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the process of cleaning your AR-15 from start to finish.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather all the necessary cleaning supplies. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:
- Gun cleaning kit (including brushes, patches, and solvent)
- AR-15 cleaning rod
- Gun oil or lubricant
- Compressed air (optional)
- Soft cloth or paper towels
Step 1: Unloading and Safety Precautions
Always ensure your firearm is unloaded before cleaning. Remove the magazine and check the chamber for any rounds. Point the firearm in a safe direction and engage the safety. This is a critical step to prevent any accidents during the cleaning process.
Step 2: Field Stripping
Field stripping is the process of disassembling the upper and lower receivers of your AR-15. Follow these steps:
- Remove the magazine and insert a dummy round into the chamber.
- Push the takedown lever on the left side of the lower receiver and pull the bolt carrier group (BCG) back.
- Rotate the takedown lever down and pull the BCG out of the receiver.
- Remove the upper receiver from the lower receiver by pulling the receiver back and sliding it off.
Step 3: Cleaning the Upper Receiver
Start by cleaning the upper receiver. Use a cleaning brush to remove any carbon or debris from the inside. Then, apply solvent to the brush and scrub the receiver thoroughly. Wipe away the solvent with a patch and repeat as needed.
Step 4: Cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)
Next, focus on the BCG. Use a cleaning brush to remove carbon and debris from the inside of the carrier. Apply solvent to the brush and scrub the carrier. Pay special attention to the gas key and the area where the bolt meets the carrier. Wipe away the solvent with a patch and repeat as needed.
Step 5: Cleaning the Bolt and Chamber
Use a cleaning brush to remove carbon and debris from the bolt and chamber. Apply solvent to the brush and scrub the bolt and chamber. Wipe away the solvent with a patch and repeat as needed.
Step 6: Cleaning the Upper Receiver and Gas System
Use a cleaning brush to remove carbon and debris from the inside of the upper receiver and gas system. Apply solvent to the brush and scrub the receiver and gas system. Wipe away the solvent with a patch and repeat as needed.
Step 7: Reassembling the Upper Receiver
Once the upper receiver is clean, reassemble it by following the reverse steps of field stripping. Ensure that all parts are properly aligned and secure before continuing.
Step 8: Cleaning the Lower Receiver
Use a cleaning brush to remove carbon and debris from the inside of the lower receiver. Apply solvent to the brush and scrub the receiver. Wipe away the solvent with a patch and repeat as needed.
Step 9: Lubricating the Firearm
After cleaning, apply a thin layer of gun oil or lubricant to all moving parts of the firearm. This includes the bolt carrier group, gas key, and the area where the bolt meets the carrier. Use a rag to wipe away any excess oil.
Step 10: Reassembling the Firearm
Reassemble the lower receiver by following the reverse steps of field stripping. Ensure that all parts are properly aligned and secure before continuing.
Step 11: Final Inspection
After reassembling the firearm, perform a final inspection to ensure that everything is in working order. Check for any loose parts or signs of damage. Once you’re confident that the firearm is clean and lubricated, you’re ready to go.
Cleaning your AR-15 may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of practice, it becomes second nature. Regular cleaning not only improves the performance of your firearm but also ensures your safety. By following this comprehensive guide, you
