How Do You Clean an AR-15?
Cleaning your AR-15 is an essential task to ensure its longevity and performance. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, maintaining your firearm is crucial. In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through the process step by step, covering all the necessary aspects of cleaning your AR-15.
Materials Needed
Before you start cleaning your AR-15, gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:
- Gun cleaning kit
- Clean cloth or paper towels
- Gun oil or lubricant
- Gun solvent
- Compressed air or a cleaning rod
- AR-15 cleaning brush
- AR-15 chamber brush
- AR-15 bolt carrier
- AR-15 bolt
- AR-15 receiver
Step 1: Safety First
Always prioritize safety when handling firearms. Ensure the firearm is unloaded, remove the magazine, and check the chamber to confirm there are no rounds present. Keep the firearm pointed in a safe direction at all times.
Step 2: Field Strip the AR-15
Field stripping your AR-15 is the process of disassembling the firearm for cleaning. Follow these steps:
- Remove the magazine and ensure the chamber is clear.
- Lock the bolt to the rear position.
- Remove the bolt carrier group by pulling it back and sliding it out of the receiver.
- Remove the bolt by pulling it out of the bolt carrier group.
- Remove the gas key by using a gas key wrench or a flat-head screwdriver.
Step 3: Clean the Receiver
The receiver is the main body of the firearm. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the exterior, removing any dirt or grime. Pay special attention to the areas where the bolt carrier group and bolt meet the receiver.
Step 4: Clean the Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group is a critical component that needs to be thoroughly cleaned. Use a cleaning brush to scrub the bolt carrier, focusing on the areas where the bolt and gas key meet. Apply solvent to the brush to help loosen any dirt or grime.
Step 5: Clean the Bolt
Use a cleaning brush to scrub the bolt, paying close attention to the rifling and the areas where the bolt meets the bolt carrier group. Apply solvent to the brush to help loosen any dirt or grime.
Step 6: Clean the Gas Key
The gas key is the component that allows the gas to cycle the action of the firearm. Use a cleaning brush to scrub the gas key, focusing on the areas where it meets the receiver and the bolt carrier group.
Step 7: Dry the Components
After cleaning each component, use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess solvent. Allow the components to air dry or use compressed air to blow away any remaining moisture.
Step 8: Apply Lubricant
Apply a thin layer of gun oil or lubricant to the following areas:
- Bolt carrier group
- Bolt
- Gas key
- Hammer and sear
- Trigger group
Step 9: Reassemble the AR-15
Follow the reverse order of the disassembly steps to reassemble your AR-15. Ensure all components are properly aligned and secure.
Step 10: Test the Firearm
After reassembling the AR-15, load a magazine with dummy rounds and cycle the action to ensure everything is functioning correctly. If you notice any issues, disassemble the firearm and inspect the components again.
Cleaning your AR-15 is a crucial task that should be performed regularly to maintain its performance and longevity. By following this detailed guide, you can ensure your firearm remains in top condition for years to come.
