Knowing Why And How To Keep A Gun Clean

This post was last updated on November 26th, 2021

Without having to do much research, to begin with, I can tell you a lot about guns, cleaning, and the care and maintenance that’s involved with owning and having the responsibility of a firearm or shotgun. 

My husband is an avid and enthusiastic hunter, spending hours, days, and long weekends in the forests and mountains with the group of guys all waiting for the wild animals to scurry past, and yes you could’ve guessed it that we have had oh so many an evening of wild boar stew or hog roast slowly turning over the fire as we sit around relaxing with drinks and good stories.

But the thing about my other half is that when the day is done, he is home and has showered and been fed, he will sit and meticulously wipe, clean, and polish all the bits and bobs that make up a shotgun. 

He will explain the steps to me as he goes along (which to be honest I have no intention of reenacting anytime soon so why I need to know this is beyond me) and explains the ins and outs of the whole process and why he needs to do it every time.

There are certain specialized products one needs to use when cleaning the metals and wood sections each bringing their advantages to the rifle, so doing your homework and research on not only the type of model you have but the solvent or oil solution that will best suit it is vital.

You can click here to find out more on how to use a gun cleaning solvent, get handy advices, and the dos and don’ts. But if you are new to the game and have no idea where to begin, a quick-tip guide on the various products and brands are also readily available on the market. 

If you can get into the habit and routine of proper maintenance like my husband has with regards to keeping your firearm or rifle clean then you can be sure you will have a gun that will last for many years to come. Now if I could just get him as disciplined with the laundry and tidying up then life would be sweet, am I right ladies?

Choosing the right cleaning option.

When it comes to handling and owning a gun the main priority is safety, not only in terms of when and where to shoot or let off a few rounds but with the cleaning of the mechanisms and parts. 

If you rush or use the incorrect tools, it could damage the components and in turn, cause them to wear out faster, rust can set in, and suddenly the clip is jamming or it’s not firing off, as usual, making it extremely dangerous to be around or use.

Your best bet is to get a gun cleaning tool kit, they come ready in compact little cases, either metal or wood, and contain everything you could need to get the job done right. 

They will usually come in sets of 12 to the jumbo set of 68 pieces, rods, mops, and brushes or jigs are all included and depending on the amount of gun or rifles you need to clean at any given time will determine the size of kit best suited for the task.

There are also those men who, having the time in the field if it is a slow day, like to clean their equipment while they wait. Specialized kits are available for field use, ranging from a few essentials to a full-on equipment bag. If you are a two-man team for the day you could opt for the larger size to accommodate both shotguns.

If you’ve made a cup of tea and have a few minutes to spare for yourself, read this interesting article here https://www.survivopedia.com/how-to-choose-gun-cleaning-kit/ with professional advice from a champion marksman and also what not to do. Listening to someone from the industry is always a good option in my book and one I recommend for beginners.

6 benefits of gun cleaning.

1. Familiarity

We may well be a great shot, but when it comes to the mechanics of the machine most people don’t have a clue. Taking apart and reassembling your firearm will not only allow you to see how the different parts work together but if something broke or went wrong you’d be able to find the problem and work out the solution. 

2. Malfunctioning

Like with all equipment they are never guaranteed for safety as careful as we are, they erode and age the same as anything else, unfortunately, there are a high number of tests that show a firearm malfunctioned due to human error, a dirty gun. Build-up can prevent certain parts from working optimally. Be aware, be safe, and be clean.

3. Longevity

As simple as it sounds, it does what it says on the tin. Proper cleanliness and care will keep your shotgun in top nick for the maximum possible time. Here you can check out for 80 lowers receiver.

4. Lubrication

Oils and solutions are essential in keeping moving parts doing just that, but with regular cleaning and disassembling it will help you learn which parts don’t work as well if they are over or under lubricated. Getting to know your gun and the mastery of lubrication takes time and practice. 

5. Accuracy

When the parts are smooth moving and working like a symphony orchestra on final curtain call you can be sure you will be making great shots, ensure they are singing together for maximum on-target shots.

6. Reliability

This may not relate to everyone but if a firearm is your choice and form of self-protection you need it to be able to fire when needed, every time. Situations can occur in an instant, being prepared at all times is essential, and this is easily attainable from a simple routine of gun cleaning maintenance. 

Whether you are new to shooting or a seasoned veteran with years of experience under your belt the main objective remains the same, a clean gun prevents high-risk scenarios, keeps your product in good shape, and inadvertently creates self-discipline. Win-win all round I’d say.

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