How To Clean Your AR-15 Barrel: A Step-by-Step Guide

Table of Contents

Safety First: Preparation and Precautions

Firearms are inherently dangerous, and their use demands utmost respect and caution. Before embarking on any maintenance task, and especially when learning How To Clean AR 15 Barrel, ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

The first and foremost step: *verify the firearm is unloaded*. Visually and physically inspect the chamber and the magazine well. Remove the magazine, pull back the charging handle, and visually inspect the chamber to ensure no ammunition is present. Physically feel inside the chamber to confirm its emptiness. Even if you *think* it’s unloaded, double-check. This step is non-negotiable.

Choose a well-lit, uncluttered workspace. A dedicated cleaning station is ideal, but any clean, flat surface will suffice. Ensure the area is free from distractions. Place a protective mat on the work surface to safeguard both your firearm and the surface itself.

Gathering the right tools and supplies is crucial for a successful cleaning session. Here’s a checklist of essentials to get you started when you start to learn How To Clean AR 15 Barrel:

Cleaning Rod: Select a rod specifically designed for .223/5.56 caliber firearms. Consider a one-piece rod for maximum rigidity and protection.
Bore Guide: This is a vital piece of equipment. A bore guide centers the cleaning rod within the barrel and prevents damage to the chamber and receiver. It also helps prevent cleaning solvent from seeping into the action.
Cleaning Patches: Use patches that fit the bore snugly. Various sizes are available. Pre-cut patches designed for this purpose are readily available.
Bore Brush: Opt for a bore brush specifically designed for .223/5.56. Nylon or bronze brushes are typical.
Cleaning Solvent: Select a quality cleaning solvent. Choose a solvent specifically designed for removing carbon buildup and copper fouling.
Lubricant/Protectant Oil: A good quality firearm oil is essential for lubrication and corrosion protection.
Patch Holder (Optional, but Recommended): Some prefer using a patch holder, allowing them to firmly attach the cleaning patch to the rod.
Cotton Swabs or Q-tips: Useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
Cleaning Mat or Surface Protector: Protects your firearm and the work surface.
Eye Protection: Always wear eye protection to prevent debris from entering your eyes.
Gloves (Optional): Gloves are recommended to keep your hands clean and to provide a better grip on cleaning tools.

Before you begin, consider reviewing your AR-15’s owner’s manual. It might offer specific recommendations or precautions for your particular model. Always prioritize safe handling and follow manufacturer instructions. This is another part of the process when learning How To Clean AR 15 Barrel.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Once you’ve ensured safety and gathered your supplies, you’re ready to commence the cleaning process.

Preparing the Upper Receiver

Separating the Upper and Lower Receivers: Begin by separating the upper and lower receivers. Simply remove the takedown pins. Consult your owner’s manual for the specifics of your model.
Removing the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG): Carefully remove the bolt carrier group from the upper receiver. The BCG needs to be cleaned separately.
Removing the Charging Handle: Detach the charging handle from the upper receiver.
(Optional) Disassembling the Forward Assist Assembly: Depending on your cleaning method, disassembling the forward assist assembly might be necessary. This allows you to clean the barrel from the chamber end without obstruction. Consult your manual or a reputable online guide for disassembly instructions.

Cleaning the Barrel

Employing the Bore Guide: Insert the bore guide into the upper receiver, ensuring it fits snugly. This crucial step centers the cleaning rod and safeguards the chamber. Failure to use a bore guide can result in damage.
Initial Cleaning: Attach a cleaning patch to the patch holder or directly to the cleaning rod, ensuring it’s a snug fit. Dampen the patch with a cleaning solvent, ensuring it’s not dripping wet. Push the patch through the barrel *from the chamber end toward the muzzle*. This ensures any debris is pushed out the correct way, and gravity assists the process. *Never* pull the patch back through the barrel. Repeat this process with fresh, clean patches, until the patch emerges relatively clean. This is the foundation of How To Clean AR 15 Barrel.
Brushing the Bore (If Necessary): If the initial patching reveals significant fouling, particularly carbon build-up or copper deposits, use the bore brush. Attach the brush to the cleaning rod. Dip the brush in the cleaning solvent, saturating the bristles. Insert the brush through the chamber end of the barrel, pushing it completely through. Withdraw the brush, then repeat the process several times, moving the brush back and forth (push-pull-push-pull) along the length of the barrel to scrub away stubborn fouling. Remove the brush and follow with several more patches to remove the debris. It is important to use the correct bore brush.
Final Cleaning Pass: Repeat the patching process with clean, dry patches. The goal is to remove all traces of solvent and debris. Continue until the patch emerges completely clean, indicating a clean barrel. Multiple passes may be needed. If after several passes the patch still has a dark stain, then it may be time to use a copper solvent.
Inspecting the Barrel: After cleaning, visually inspect the bore. Use a bore light, if available, to help you see the inside of the barrel. The bore should appear clean and free of fouling. If any debris or streaks are visible, repeat the cleaning process. This visual inspection is a critical part of How To Clean AR 15 Barrel.

Lubrication and Reassembly

Lubricating the Barrel: Apply a thin coat of firearm lubricant/protectant oil to a clean patch. Pass the lubricated patch through the barrel to create a protective layer. Remove any excess oil with a clean, dry patch. This helps prevent corrosion and protects the barrel’s interior.
Reassembling the Upper Receiver: Reassemble the upper receiver, including the charging handle and bolt carrier group. Ensure all components are properly seated and functioning correctly.

Cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group

The bolt carrier group, or BCG, is a critical component that requires its own dedicated cleaning routine. Although not the primary focus of this guide on How To Clean AR 15 Barrel, it’s important to understand its significance. The BCG endures significant wear and tear, collecting carbon and grime. A detailed guide on BCG cleaning should cover disassembling the BCG, removing carbon deposits from the bolt, the bolt carrier, and the firing pin. Pay close attention to the gas rings on the bolt. Use specialized solvents and tools. Regular and thorough cleaning of the BCG is essential for maintaining the reliability and function of your AR-15.

Tips and Best Practices

The frequency of cleaning depends on your usage. If you shoot often, a thorough cleaning after each shooting session is recommended. If you shoot less frequently, cleaning every few sessions might suffice. However, always inspect your barrel after shooting to determine the need for cleaning. This is part of the lifestyle of anyone learning How To Clean AR 15 Barrel.

Various cleaning solvents exist, each designed for specific purposes. Carbon removers tackle carbon buildup, while copper solvents are designed for removing copper fouling from the barrel. Understand the types of solvents and use the appropriate one for the type of fouling you’re removing.

Proper storage is crucial to prevent rust and corrosion. Always store your AR-15 in a clean, dry environment after cleaning. Consider using a gun safe or case with desiccant packs to absorb moisture.

Avoid common mistakes. Never use the wrong size cleaning rod or brush. Forcing the cleaning rod can damage the barrel. Avoid using abrasive cleaning materials. Always lubricate your barrel and other moving parts after cleaning. Neglecting these steps can lead to damage and malfunction. Following these tips will make learning How To Clean AR 15 Barrel much easier and less frustrating.

Conclusion

Cleaning your AR-15 barrel is a fundamental aspect of firearm maintenance. This guide has outlined the necessary steps for How To Clean AR 15 Barrel, from preparation and safety to the step-by-step cleaning process, to ensuring your rifle’s accuracy and reliability. By following this guide diligently, you can ensure your AR-15 performs at its best for years to come. Regular cleaning will not only enhance your shooting experience but also contribute to the longevity and safe operation of your firearm. Remember to always prioritize safety and seek professional help if you have any doubts or encounter issues. Take the time to learn how to clean your AR-15 thoroughly.

Now, go out and enjoy your clean-shooting AR-15. Practice safe gun handling, and remember that a well-maintained firearm is a safe firearm. If you are seeking more information, search for videos and other resources about How To Clean AR 15 Barrel.

Resources

If you want to clean more of your AR, here is a good article about cleaning your Bolt Carrier Group. You can easily find many cleaning guides online as well.