Are you a proud owner of an AR-15 rifle and looking for a simple and effective way to clean and lubricate it? Well, look no further! In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of cleaning and lubricating your AR-15, ensuring that it remains in optimal condition for years to come. With easy-to-follow instructions and friendly tips, this article is your go-to resource for maintaining the performance and longevity of your beloved firearm. So grab your cleaning kit, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on giving your AR-15 the TLC it deserves!
Introduction
Welcome to our step-by-step guide on cleaning and lubricating your AR-15! Whether you use your AR-15 for hunting, sport shooting, or home defense, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping your firearm in optimal condition. In this comprehensive article, we will walk you through each step of the cleaning process, highlighting the necessary tools and supplies you’ll need, as well as important safety precautions to follow. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to properly clean and lubricate your AR-15, ensuring its longevity and reliable performance.
Necessary Tools and Supplies
Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s first go over the tools and supplies you’ll need to effectively clean your AR-15. Having these items readily available will make the process much smoother and more efficient.
Cleaning Rod
A cleaning rod is an essential tool for pushing cleaning patches through the barrel of your AR-15. Look for a sturdy and durable cleaning rod that is appropriately sized for your firearm.
Bore Brush
The bore brush is used to scrub away fouling and debris from the barrel. Choose a bore brush that matches the caliber of your AR-15 to ensure an effective clean.
Patch Holder
A patch holder attaches to the cleaning rod and holds the cleaning patches in place as you push them through the barrel. Make sure to select a patch holder that fits securely on your cleaning rod.
Cleaning Patches
Cleaning patches are absorbent cloths used with cleaning solvent to remove fouling from the barrel. Stock up on an adequate supply of cleaning patches to ensure you have enough for multiple cleaning sessions.
Bore Snake
A bore snake is a convenient tool for quick cleaning of the barrel. It is a long cord with integrated brushes that can be pulled through the barrel in one motion. Having a bore snake on hand can save you time during routine cleaning.
Cleaning Solvent
Cleaning solvent is a specialized product designed to break down carbon, copper, and lead fouling inside your AR-15. Look for a solvent that is compatible with your firearm and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for usage.
Lubricating Oil
Lubricating oil is essential for keeping the moving parts of your AR-15 properly lubricated to reduce friction and prevent premature wear. Choose a high-quality lubricant specifically formulated for firearms.
Toothbrush
A soft-bristle toothbrush is handy for reaching tight spots and cleaning hard-to-reach areas of your AR-15. Reserve a dedicated toothbrush for firearm cleaning purposes.
Q-tips
Q-tips are useful for cleaning small, intricate parts in your AR-15, such as the trigger group, where debris can accumulate. Keep a supply of Q-tips on hand for detailed cleaning.
Microfiber Cloth
A microfiber cloth is excellent for wiping down and polishing the various surfaces of your AR-15. Its gentle yet effective cleaning properties help maintain the appearance of your firearm.
Now that you have gathered all the necessary tools and supplies, let’s move on to the next section, where we’ll cover important safety precautions to ensure a safe cleaning experience.
Safety Precautions
Your safety should always be a top priority when handling firearms. Before starting the cleaning process, it’s crucial to follow these safety precautions to minimize the risk of accidents or injuries.
Unload and Safety Check the AR-15
Before you begin cleaning, always make sure your AR-15 is fully unloaded. Remove the magazine and visually inspect the chamber and the magazine well to ensure there is no live ammunition present. Engage the safety and keep it engaged throughout the cleaning process.
Work in a Well-Ventilated Area
Cleaning solvents can emit fumes that may be harmful if inhaled in excessive quantities. It’s essential to work in a well-ventilated area, such as a garage with the doors open or an outdoor space, to avoid inhaling potentially harmful vapors.
Wear Eye Protection and Gloves
Wearing eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, is crucial to shield your eyes from cleaning solvents, debris, and possible splatter. Additionally, using gloves will protect your hands from solvents as well as any sharp edges or rough surfaces.
Keep Ammunition Away from the Cleaning Area
To prevent accidental discharge, always keep your ammunition in a separate area away from your cleaning workspace. It’s important to maintain a clear distinction between the cleaning process and handling live ammunition.
By adhering to these safety precautions, you can confidently proceed to field strip your AR-15 for thorough cleaning in the following section.
Field Strip the AR-15
Field stripping your AR-15 allows you to disassemble it into its major components for easier access during cleaning. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific AR-15 model, but we’ll provide you with a general overview of the process.
Remove the Magazine
Start by removing the magazine from your AR-15 and visually inspecting it to ensure it’s empty. Engage the safety and set the magazine aside in a different area from your cleaning supplies.
Lock the Bolt Carrier Group to the Rear
Pull the charging handle on your AR-15 to the rear to lock the bolt carrier group (BCG) in place. This will facilitate easy removal of the BCG and allow for thorough cleaning of the upper receiver.
Push the Takedown Pin
Press the takedown pin, located above the magazine well, and simultaneously pivot the upper and lower receivers apart. Once the receivers are separated, set aside the lower receiver for now.
Remove the Bolt Carrier Group
With the upper receiver exposed, pull the charging handle all the way to the rear, then remove the bolt carrier group from the upper receiver. This will give you easy access to clean the upper receiver components.
Remove the Charging Handle
Separate the charging handle from the bolt carrier group by pushing it forward slightly and lifting it out of the upper receiver. Clean the charging handle separately using solvent and lubricating oil.
Disassemble the Bolt Carrier Group
To thoroughly clean the bolt carrier group (BCG), disassemble it by removing the firing pin retaining pin, followed by the cam pin. Once these are removed, you can remove the bolt from the BCG. Make sure to keep track of each component during disassembly.
Now that you have successfully stripped the AR-15, let’s move on to cleaning the individual components, starting with the upper receiver.
Cleaning the Upper Receiver
Cleaning the upper receiver components is crucial for maintaining the accuracy and reliability of your AR-15. Let’s go through the steps to ensure a proper cleaning.
Remove Handguard and Barrel Assembly
Start by removing the handguard and barrel assembly from the upper receiver. This can typically be accomplished by unscrewing the retaining screws or using specialized tools, depending on your specific AR-15 model.
Clean the Barrel
Attach the patch holder and a cleaning patch to the cleaning rod, then dampen the patch with cleaning solvent. Insert the cleaning rod into the rear of the barrel and push the patch through, ensuring it comes out the front end. Repeat this process several times with fresh patches until they come out relatively clean.
Clean the Upper Receiver
To clean the upper receiver, use a toothbrush dipped in cleaning solvent to scrub away fouling and debris from the inside. Pay close attention to the bolt carrier channel and feed ramps. Use Q-tips to reach tight corners and remove stubborn residue.
Once the upper receiver and barrel are clean, it’s time to move on to cleaning the bolt carrier group.
Cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group (BCG) is a critical component of your AR-15, and regular cleaning is necessary to ensure its proper functioning. Let’s break down the steps to clean the various parts of the BCG.
Remove the Firing Pin Retaining Pin
Using a pointed object, such as a punch or small screwdriver, carefully push out the firing pin retaining pin located in the bolt carrier group. This will allow you to remove the firing pin.
Remove the Cam Pin
Next, rotate the cam pin and pull it out from its position in the bolt carrier group. Set aside the cam pin for cleaning.
Remove the Bolt
To remove the bolt from the bolt carrier group, rotate it counterclockwise until it aligns with the opening in the carrier. Once aligned, you can simply pull the bolt out from the carrier.
Clean the Bolt Carrier
Using a cleaning patch soaked in solvent, thoroughly clean the bolt carrier, paying particular attention to the interior surfaces. Remove any carbon buildup or debris using a toothbrush or Q-tip.
Clean the Bolt
Clean the bolt by applying solvent to a patch or using a bore brush. Scrub the bolt lugs and other surfaces to remove fouling. Make sure to clean the extractor, ejector, and gas rings as well.
With the upper receiver and bolt carrier group now clean, let’s shift our focus to the lower receiver.
Cleaning the Lower Receiver
The lower receiver houses the trigger group and other critical parts of your AR-15. Proper cleaning and maintenance of the lower receiver components are essential for reliable performance. Let’s take a closer look at the process.
Clean the Trigger Group
Using a toothbrush dipped in cleaning solvent, scrub the trigger group components to remove any built-up fouling or debris. Pay attention to the trigger, hammer, and sear surfaces. Use Q-tips to access hard-to-reach areas.
Clean the Magazine Well
Clean the magazine well with a cleaning patch soaked in solvent. Remove any dirt, debris, or carbon buildup from inside the well. Use Q-tips to clean the corners and other tight spaces.
Clean the Buffer Tube and Buffer
Inspect the buffer tube for debris or fouling. If necessary, wipe it down with a cleaning patch or use a Q-tip to clean the threads. Take the opportunity to also clean the buffer itself, ensuring it is free from any buildup that may affect its functioning.
Now that we have successfully cleaned the upper and lower receiver components, let’s move on to lubricating the AR-15.
Lubricating the AR-15
Proper lubrication is crucial for maintaining the smooth operation and longevity of your AR-15. Let’s go through the steps to effectively lubricate each major component.
Apply a Thin Coat of Lubricating Oil to the Bolt Carrier Group
Using a clean patch or dedicated lubricating cloth, apply a thin coat of lubricating oil to the bolt carrier group. Pay attention to the contact surfaces and ensure all moving parts are adequately lubricated. Excess oil should be wiped away for optimal functioning.
Lubricate the Bolt
Apply a small amount of lubricating oil to the bolt, paying attention to the bolt lugs and other contact points. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as excess oil can attract dirt and debris.
Lubricate the Upper Receiver
Apply a light coat of lubricating oil to the internal surfaces of the upper receiver, including the bolt carrier channel and feed ramps. This will ensure smooth movement and reduce friction during operation.
Lubricate the Lower Receiver
Apply a thin film of lubricating oil to the critical components of the lower receiver, such as the trigger and hammer interfaces. Pay attention to any areas that experience high friction or movement.
Reassemble the AR-15
Now that you have completed the cleaning and lubricating process, reassemble your AR-15 in the reverse order of disassembly. Make sure all components are properly aligned and secured. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper reassembly, taking care not to force any parts.
With your AR-15 successfully reassembled, we are nearing the end of the cleaning process. Let’s go through some final checks and maintenance steps to ensure everything is in order.
Final Checks and Maintenance
Perform a Function Check
Before storing or using your AR-15, perform a function check to ensure everything is working correctly. Confirm that the safety engages and disengages properly, the trigger functions smoothly, and the bolt carrier group cycles correctly.
Inspect and Wipe Down the AR-15
With your AR-15 fully assembled, inspect the entire firearm for any areas that may require additional cleaning or attention. Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe down the external surfaces, removing any fingerprints, moisture, or dirt.
Store the AR-15 Properly
If you are not planning to use your AR-15 immediately after cleaning, store it in a safe and secure location. Ensure it is unloaded, and follow all local laws and regulations regarding firearm storage.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully completed the comprehensive cleaning and lubricating process for your AR-15. Regularly maintaining your firearm in this manner will help ensure its reliability, accuracy, and longevity. By following the step-by-step guide in this article and using the necessary tools and supplies, you can confidently clean and maintain your AR-15, ensuring it performs at its best whenever you need it. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when disassembling and reassembling your firearm. Happy shooting and happy cleaning!