Hunter Education Course

Chapter 3: Cleaning and Storing Firearms

Cleaning a Firearm

It is every hunter's responsibility to ensure their firearm is in working order before hunting. Not only does regular care and cleaning of a firearm ensure greater shot accuracy, it also helps ensure that the action and safety mechanisms function correctly. Let's look at how to clean a firearm, as well as the proper way to store one at home.

Here is a checklist of cleaning equipment you'll need to get started:

• The owner's manual for the firearm being cleaned
  
• A firearm holder to hold the fire arm firmly in a horizontal position
• Cleaning rods or a bore snake
• Brass brushes that fit onto the cleaning rods
• A slotted tip for cleaning patches
• Cleaning patches that fit the bore size of the firearm
• Latex gloves
• Pipe cleaners
• Gunsmithing screwdrivers
• Gun cleaning solvents, oil and grease
• A short copper cleaning brush or an old toothbrush
• A bore light or Light pipe
• Clean rags
• Eye and hand protection gear

Always follow these safety rules when cleaning any firearm:

• Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
• Ensure the firearm is unloaded.
• Clear the workbench of any material you do not need for cleaning.
• Move all ammunition to a separate location.
• Make sure your work area is adequately ventilated.
• Wear some type of eye and hand-protection gear.

When cleaning firearms, always clean from the breech end if possible. This will push out all powder residue and cleaning solution from the muzzle and prevent damage to the muzzle crown. Disassemble your firearm according to manufacturer's recommendations.

6 Easy Steps to Cleaning a Firearm

Step 1.

Attach a cleaning brush that is the same size as the caliber or gauge of your firearm onto a cleaning rod. Pour a small amount of cleaning solution into an open container, such as a film canister, and dip the brush into that. Dipping brush directly into the cleaning solution will contaminate the entire supply.

Step 2.

Place cleaning rod with a brush attached into the bore and work the brush down the entire length of the barrel.

Step 3.

Remove the cleaning brush from the cleaning rod and attach the slotted patch holder onto the cleaning rod. Attach a clean patch onto the slotted patch holder and run the patch down the entire length of the barrel. Next, use the bore light to inspect the action and bore. If you spot any more residue, use another patch until it's completely clean.

Step 4.

Attach a clean, well-oiled patch onto the slotted patch holder and run it down the entire length of the barrel. The oil will prevent rust in the barrel. Your barrel is now clean!

Step 5.

Use a copper cleaning brush and work it around the bolt, bolt face and action to remove any powder residue. Wipe the bolt and action clean and apply a thin coat of oil.

Step 6.

Wipe down the entire firearm with a lightly oiled rag to clean the outside surface.

Alternative Way to Clean Your Firearm

If the firearm cannot be cleaned from the breech, you will have to clean it from the muzzle end. You can place a patch or a thin cloth in the action so that residue does not fall into the trigger and safety assemblies.

Professional Cleaning (Gunsmith)

While cleaning a firearm, be sure to inspect it for loose screws or any signs of damage. If the firearm has been damaged or is not working properly, take it to a qualified gunsmith for inspection and repair if needed.

Storing a Firearm

If you have firearms in your home, protect your family and friends by ensuring that both your firearms and ammunition are locked away at all times either in a gunsafe or a securely locked cabinet. A gunsafe is like a mini version of a bank safe - some are even fireproof. It is the best storage option. Not only does it protect firearms from being stolen, it keeps them out of the hands of careless adults and children. It also keeps them safe in the event of a break in, if your firearms fall into the wrong hands, you may be held responsible!

All firearms should be stored in one secure location. Ammunition should be stored separately, but also in a secure location.

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