How to Clean an AR-15: A Detailed Guide
Cleaning your AR-15 is an essential part of maintaining your firearm. Regular cleaning not only ensures that your weapon functions smoothly but also extends its lifespan. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of cleaning an AR-15, step by step.
Materials Needed
Before you start cleaning your AR-15, gather the following materials:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Gun Cleaning Kit | Contains brushes, patches, and cleaning solvent. |
| Gun Oil | Used to lubricate moving parts. |
| Compressed Air | Helps blow out debris from hard-to-reach areas. |
| AR-15 Disassembly Tool | Used to remove and install parts. |
| Soft Cloth | For wiping down the firearm. |
Step 1: Safety First
Always prioritize safety when handling firearms. Ensure that the firearm is unloaded, the magazine is removed, and the chamber is clear of any ammunition. Keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction at all times.
Step 2: Field Strip the AR-15
Field stripping is the process of disassembling the firearm for cleaning. Follow these steps:
- Remove the magazine and ensure the chamber is clear.
- Lower the bolt carrier group (BCG) by pulling the charging handle to the rear and locking it back.
- Remove the BCG from the upper receiver using the disassembly tool.
- Remove the bolt from the BCG.
- Remove the lower receiver from the upper receiver.
Step 3: Clean the Upper Receiver
Use a cleaning brush to remove any debris from the upper receiver. Apply a small amount of solvent to the brush and scrub the interior of the receiver. Wipe away the solvent with a patch.
Step 4: Clean the Bolt and BCG
Use a cleaning brush to remove any debris from the bolt and BCG. Apply solvent to the brush and scrub the surfaces. Pay special attention to the bolt lugs and cam pin. Wipe away the solvent with a patch.
Step 5: Clean the Bolt Carrier Key
Use a cleaning brush to remove any debris from the bolt carrier key. Apply solvent to the brush and scrub the key. Wipe away the solvent with a patch.
Step 6: Clean the Lower Receiver
Use a cleaning brush to remove any debris from the lower receiver. Apply solvent to the brush and scrub the interior of the receiver. Wipe away the solvent with a patch.
Step 7: Clean the Magazine
Use a cleaning brush to remove any debris from the magazine. Apply solvent to the brush and scrub the interior of the magazine. Wipe away the solvent with a patch.
Step 8: Dry and Lubricate
Use compressed air to blow out any remaining solvent and debris. Wipe the firearm with a soft cloth to remove any remaining solvent. Apply a small amount of gun oil to the following areas:
- Inside the upper receiver
- On the bolt carrier group
- On the bolt
- On the cam pin
- On the charging handle
- On the magazine
Step 9: Reassemble the AR-15
Follow the reverse order of the disassembly steps to reassemble the AR-15. Ensure that all parts are properly aligned and secure.
Step 10: Test the Firearm
After reassembling the AR-15, load a magazine and chamber a round. Fire a few shots to ensure that the firearm is functioning properly.
Cleaning your AR-15 is an important task