How to Properly Clean Your AR-15
Hello folks, welcome back to True Shot Academy! Today Jesse Grigsby, from Otis Technology will be sharing an in-depth guide on how to properly clean and maintain your AR 15. This knowledge is crucial for anyone passionate about firearms, and as a trusted provider, True Shot Ammo understands the importance of regular firearm upkeep. Let's delve deep into the details of AR-15 maintenance to ensure your firearm remains in prime condition.
Tools We'll Be Using
For starters, we'll be using the Otis 5.56 AR kit and a 5.56 ripcord for efficient one-pass bore cleaning. These essential tools, along with similar maintenance kits, are available directly from manufacturers at True Shot Ammo. We'll also utilize Otis patches, MC-7 bore cleaner, and FP-10 Lubricant Elite. For finishing touches, we have CLP 85 surface wipes, perfect for cleaning the exterior. More specialized tools for this process include the star chamber cleaning tool and the bone tool, along with a few AP brushes.
"The first thing that you're going to do is ensure that the firearm is safe and ready to be cleaned."
Ensuring Safety
Before we start, ensuring your firearm's safety is our top priority. Begin with a visual check to confirm that the weapon is on safe mode. Carefully peer into the chamber to fully inspect that there's no round lodged in there. Now, with safety confirmed, we're ready to get our hands dirty.
Quick Clean: The Rip Cord
In situations where time is limited, the rip cord is your go-to solution. Designed for swift barrel cleaning, it's an ideal tool for those quick maintenance sessions. Insert the skinny end of the rip cord through the breech until it emerges from the muzzle, then simply pull it through. For those looking for quick solutions, True Shot Ammo offers a variety of similar easy-to-use cleaning tools, designed to save time without compromising on thoroughness.
Disassembling the AR 15
For a more comprehensive clean, disassemble your AR 15. Begin by punching out the rear takedown and the front pivot pin, then separate the upper from the lower receiver. Carefully extract the bolt carrier group and the charging handle, followed by the buffer assembly at the back. Your AR 15 is now disassembled and ready for an in-depth clean. Always consult your owner's manual for disassembling instructions if you have any hesitations.
Cleaning Process
Each part of the AR 15 requires particular attention during cleaning. Here are detailed steps for each part:
Buffer Assembly
First, separate the buffer from the spring. Springs need proper lubrication and tend to accumulate carbon over time. Wipe down the spring with a rag and apply some FP-10, ensuring you get between all of the coil spaces. Coat your buffer with a thin film of CLP, and that's your buffer assembly sorted!
Bolt Carrier Group
Disassembling the bolt carrier group requires meticulous attention. Start by removing the firing pin retaining pin, which is small and easy to lose. Then remove the firing pin and takedown the cam pin, allowing you to free the bolt. There you have it, the bolt carrier group disassembled for cleaning.
Cleaning the Bolt
The bone tool is perfect for cleaning the bolt. Use it with a couple of twists around the bolt to loosen carbon deposits. After an initial clean, apply some CLP around the bolt base, and scrub lightly with an AP brush until most, if not all, carbon is removed.
Cleaning the Cam Pin
Coat the cam pin with CLP, scrub it down with an AP brush, and wipe clean.
Cleaning the Firing Pin
Use the slot in the bone tool to clear away carbon buildup around the firing pin. Wipe down following a CLP application.
Cleaning the Firing Pin Retaining Pin
Rub any excess CLP on the retaining pin, then wipe clean.
Cleaning the Carrier
Again, use the bone tool to clean out the carrier. Run the tool through the carrier, give it a few turns, then give it a good scrubbing with CLP and an AP brush. The exterior of the carrier requires special attention, especially the carrier rails, which bear a bulk of friction during your AR 15's operation.
Charging Handle
The charging handle is straightforward. Smear a bit of CLP, scrub down with the AP brush, wipe off excess, and you're good to go.
Lower Receiver
Keeping the lower receiver clean largely depends on routine scrubbing with CLP and an AP brush. Manufacturers often advise against meddling with the trigger group, so focus mainly on the brush and apply several drops of CLP in there.
Upper Receiver & Barrel
The chamber is relatively easy to clean. Douse it with some CLP and use your AP brush to get to all the nooks and crannies.
For the infamous chambers -- 'star chambers' -- we have a star chamber cleaning tool that swivels into the crevices and lift up any stubborn carbon deposits. For an even more intense clean, use a 5.56 chamber brush.
Finally, the barrel - you can either use the rip cord, if you're in a rush, or use the pull-through cable with patches and a bore brush for a deep clean.
Lubricating Key Friction Points
Key friction points need thorough lubrication for smooth operation and longevity. These areas are:
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The carrier, especially the carrier rails at the top and bottom.
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The cam pin, concentrate around the worn-out areas featuring bare metal.
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The firing pin, a slim layer of lubrication is adequate.
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The bolt, the extractor, and ejector points on the bolt face.
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The charging handle, especially the interior that works in tandem with the carrier.
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In the receiver, the locking lugs, the upper channel, and the groove are important areas.
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Finally, don't forget to lubricate the actual barrel extension.
The Final Step: Reassembly
After meticulously cleaning and lubricating each part, it's time to put your AR 15 back together. Reassemble the bolt carrier group, ensuring each component is correctly placed and secured. Next, carefully reattach the buffer assembly. Now, reunite the upper and lower receivers, ensuring they are properly aligned and secure. This reassembly process is crucial, as it ensures that your AR 15 will function smoothly and reliably.
Once everything is back in place, run a quick ripcord through the barrel again. This step is to remove any excess solvents and ensure that the barrel is as clean as it can be. And there you have it: your AR 15 is now sparkling clean and ready to fire! This thorough cleaning not only maintains the condition of your firearm but also enhances its performance and reliability.
Congratulations on mastering the process of cleaning and maintaining your AR 15! While it might feel overwhelming at first, remember that with practice, these steps will soon become second nature. True Shot Ammo is proud to guide you through this process, ensuring safe and effective firearm maintenance.
Conclusion
Maintaining your AR 15 is an essential part of responsible firearm ownership. Regular cleaning not only preserves the condition of your firearm but also ensures its reliability and safety. By following the detailed steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently take care of your AR 15, knowing that it will perform optimally when you need it.
At True Shot Ammo, we understand the importance of providing quality products and knowledge to our customers. We believe that an informed firearm owner is a responsible one. Therefore, we are committed to offering not just top-quality ammunition and firearms accessories, but also the knowledge and resources necessary for proper firearm maintenance.
Remember, whether you need quick cleaning solutions or comprehensive maintenance kits, True Shot Ammo has you covered. Our wide range of products, directly sourced from manufacturers, ensures that you have access to the best tools and supplies for your firearm care needs.
In conclusion, proper maintenance of your AR 15 is a rewarding practice that enhances your firearm's longevity, reliability, and performance. By taking the time to clean and care for your firearm, you're investing in its future and ensuring that it remains a reliable tool for years to come. Happy shooting, and remember to always prioritize safety in all your firearm-related activities.
