The Importance of a Clean AR-15
Why bother cleaning your AR-15? The answer lies in the intricate mechanics and the harsh operating environment in which firearms function. Neglecting cleaning can lead to a cascade of problems that will impact your shooting experience and, more importantly, your safety.
Firstly, accuracy degrades over time as carbon buildup, unburnt powder, and other debris accumulate within the barrel. This fouling restricts the precise path of the bullet, causing it to deviate from its intended trajectory. A clean barrel, on the other hand, allows for consistent and predictable shot placement.
Secondly, reliability hinges on a clean firearm. The AR-15 operates by utilizing the pressure generated by the fired cartridge to cycle the action. Carbon and gunk can impede this process, leading to malfunctions such as failure to feed, failure to extract, or failure to eject. These malfunctions can be frustrating and, in certain situations, dangerous. Regular cleaning removes these obstructions, ensuring smooth and dependable operation.
Thirdly, safety is paramount. A dirty firearm is more likely to experience malfunctions, increasing the risk of unintended discharges or other hazardous situations. Thorough cleaning minimizes the chances of these occurrences, allowing you to enjoy your shooting sessions with peace of mind. Ignoring the necessity of knowing how do I clean my AR-15 is, therefore, potentially compromising your safety.
Finally, a clean AR-15 is a well-maintained AR-15. Proper care and maintenance extend the lifespan of your rifle and preserve its value. A well-cared-for firearm is a source of pride and a testament to your commitment to responsible gun ownership.
Preparing for the Cleaning Process: Your Essential Arsenal
Before diving into the cleaning process, gather the necessary tools and supplies. This ensures a smooth and efficient experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cleaning Rod: A multi-piece or one-piece rod is essential for guiding cleaning patches and brushes through the barrel. Select a rod designed for your AR-15’s caliber.
Bore Brush: A bronze or nylon bore brush is used to scrub the interior of the barrel, removing carbon buildup and other fouling. Match the brush to your rifle’s caliber.
Chamber Brush: This specialized brush is specifically designed to clean the chamber, the area where the cartridge sits during firing.
Cleaning Solvent: Choose a solvent specifically formulated for firearms. These solvents break down carbon deposits and dissolve other fouling. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Gun Lubricant/Oil: After cleaning, lubricate the moving parts to ensure smooth operation and protect against corrosion. Choose a high-quality firearm lubricant.
Cleaning Patches: Cotton patches are used to apply solvent to the bore and to wipe away debris. Select patches that fit snugly in your AR-15’s bore.
Cleaning Picks/Toothbrush: These tools are useful for removing carbon and grime from hard-to-reach areas of the receiver and bolt carrier group. A nylon-bristled toothbrush can be an excellent option.
Cleaning Mat (Optional): A cleaning mat protects your work surface and provides a safe place to lay out the components of your AR-15.
Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris or solvent splashes.
Gloves (Optional): Gloves can protect your hands from solvents and lubricants.
Safety First: The Golden Rule
Before you even think about cleaning, you MUST ensure your AR-15 is unloaded and safe. This is non-negotiable:
Remove the Magazine: Eject the magazine and set it aside.
Open the Bolt and Inspect the Chamber: Pull back the charging handle to open the bolt. Visually inspect the chamber and the ejection port to confirm that no round is present. Run your finger (carefully!) along the chamber, feeling for any obstructions.
Point in a Safe Direction: Always keep the muzzle of your AR-15 pointed in a safe direction, away from yourself and others.
Disassembly: Field Stripping Your AR-15
Field stripping is the process of breaking down your AR-15 into its major components. It makes cleaning much easier and more effective. Here’s how to do it:
Separate the Upper and Lower Receivers: Push the rear takedown pin, located on the lower receiver, all the way through. Rotate the upper receiver upward on the front pivot pin until it separates from the lower receiver.
Remove the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG): Grasp the charging handle and pull it rearward, then remove the bolt carrier group from the upper receiver.
Remove the Charging Handle: Depress the charging handle latches and remove it from the upper receiver.
You now have the primary components separated, ready for cleaning.
Cleaning the Upper Receiver: The Heart of Accuracy
The upper receiver houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and charging handle, making it crucial to a clean operation.
Cleaning the Barrel: The Path of the Bullet
The barrel is where the bullet travels, making it critical for accuracy.
Wet the Bore: Attach a patch saturated with cleaning solvent to your cleaning rod’s jag. Insert the rod into the chamber and carefully push it through the barrel, exiting at the muzzle. This wets the interior of the bore with solvent.
Scrub the Bore: Attach the bore brush to your cleaning rod. Insert the brush into the chamber and scrub the entire length of the barrel, moving the brush back and forth. Don’t scrub excessively. Remove the brush.
Remove Fouling with Patches: Switch back to the jag and patches. Insert a clean, dry patch into the chamber and push it through the bore. Repeat this process with fresh patches until the patches come out relatively clean.
Cleaning the Chamber: Ensuring Reliable Extraction
The chamber is where the cartridge sits during firing, so it needs regular cleaning. Using the chamber brush and solvent, scrub the chamber in a circular motion. Wipe away any residue with a clean patch.
Cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group: Maintaining the Engine
The bolt carrier group (BCG) is the engine of your AR-15, driving the firing and extraction of rounds.
Disassembling the BCG: Disassembling the BCG requires some basic familiarity with the AR-15. Consult your owner’s manual or an online guide for specific instructions on how to safely remove the bolt, firing pin, and extractor.
Removing Carbon Buildup: Use the cleaning picks and/or toothbrush, along with solvent, to remove carbon buildup from the bolt face, bolt carrier, and firing pin. Pay particular attention to the bolt lugs and the extractor.
Inspecting for Wear and Tear: While you have the BCG disassembled, inspect the components for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, pitting, or excessive wear on the bolt lugs. Replace any damaged parts.
Cleaning the Lower Receiver: The Foundation of Function
The lower receiver houses the trigger group, safety selector, and magazine well.
Cleaning the Trigger Group: Use a cleaning brush and solvent to remove any dirt and debris from the trigger group. Pay attention to the pins and springs.
Cleaning the Buffer Tube: Clean the buffer tube (the tube that houses the buffer spring) with a brush and solvent to remove any debris.
Lubrication: Keeping the Gears Turning
Lubrication is vital for the smooth operation of your AR-15 and helps protect against corrosion.
Upper Receiver Lubrication: After all the cleaning, lightly lube the moving parts of the upper receiver using the recommended gun oil.
Bolt Carrier Group Lubrication: Apply a light coat of lubricant to the bolt, the bolt carrier rails, and the firing pin. A few drops are usually sufficient. Do not over-lubricate.
Lower Receiver Lubrication: Lightly lubricate the moving parts of the trigger group.
Avoid Overlubrication: Excessive lubrication can attract dirt and grime, which can, in turn, lead to malfunctions.
Reassembly: Putting It All Back Together
Reassembling your AR-15 is the reverse of the disassembly process.
Reinstall Charging Handle and BCG: Re-insert the charging handle into the upper receiver, then slide the BCG back into the upper receiver.
Reattach Upper and Lower Receivers: Align the upper and lower receivers and pivot them together. Insert and secure the takedown and pivot pins.
Function Check: After reassembly, perform a function check.
- Ensure the bolt cycles smoothly when you pull back the charging handle.
- Check the trigger function. Make sure the trigger breaks cleanly and that the safety selector functions correctly.
Troubleshooting: Addressing Common Issues
Even with regular cleaning, issues can arise. Here are some common problems and potential solutions:
Failure to Feed: This can be caused by a dirty chamber, a weak magazine spring, or a damaged magazine. Clean the chamber thoroughly, inspect the magazine, and replace it if necessary.
Failure to Extract: A dirty or worn extractor, a dirty chamber, or insufficient lubrication can cause this. Clean the extractor, clean the chamber, and ensure proper lubrication.
Cleaning Mistakes: Be careful not to damage parts. If you are unsure about any part of the cleaning process, consult a qualified gunsmith.
Conclusion: The Path to a Reliable AR-15
Knowing how do I clean my AR-15 isn’t just about maintaining your weapon; it’s a commitment to responsible gun ownership. Regular cleaning is essential for accuracy, reliability, and safety. Adhering to the steps outlined in this guide will ensure your AR-15 functions at its peak, providing years of reliable service. Cleaning your rifle after every range session or, at a minimum, after every few hundred rounds fired is a good starting point. Tailor the frequency to your specific usage and environment. Making cleaning a habit is the key to enjoying your AR-15 to its fullest potential.
Important Considerations
Safety is paramount: Always prioritize safety when handling firearms.
Laws and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations regarding firearms and their maintenance.
Professional Help: When in doubt, consult a qualified gunsmith.
Specific Solvents and Lubricants: Use the appropriate types and brands of firearm solvent and lubricants, as directed by the manufacturer.
Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific AR-15 model.
This guide should empower you with the knowledge needed to keep your AR-15 in top condition. Knowing how do I clean my AR-15 is a cornerstone of responsible gun ownership, allowing you to enjoy your firearm safely and effectively for many years.
