Prioritizing Safety: Before You Begin
Gun safety is paramount. Before even thinking about cleaning your AR-15, you *must* ensure the firearm is completely unloaded. This step is non-negotiable and forms the bedrock of all safe gun handling practices.
Confirming Unload Status
Start by removing the magazine. Then, pull back the charging handle fully and visually inspect the chamber to guarantee there isn’t a round present. Run your finger inside the chamber to ensure. Once you confirm the chamber is empty, release the charging handle. Repeat to confirm. This is a crucial double-check.
Direction Awareness
Always point the muzzle of the rifle in a safe direction. The safest direction is generally down range or in a direction where an unintentional discharge would cause minimal harm or damage. Keep this orientation throughout the cleaning process.
Protective Gear
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from solvents and debris. Also, consider wearing gloves to shield your hands from chemicals and keep them clean.
Only when you’ve unequivocally confirmed the firearm is unloaded and you’re adhering to safe gun handling practices should you proceed.
Gathering Your Cleaning Arsenal
Proper equipment is essential for an efficient and effective cleaning process. Having the right tools will make the task much easier and ensure you don’t damage any parts of your AR-15. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:
Cleaning Rod
A one-piece cleaning rod is generally preferred for optimal barrel protection. Choose one of the appropriate caliber.
Bore Brush
Select a bore brush designed specifically for your AR-15’s caliber (e.g., .223/5.56mm).
Chamber Brush
A dedicated chamber brush is crucial for effectively cleaning the chamber area.
Cleaning Patches
These are used to remove solvent and debris from the bore. Have a generous supply of patches.
Gun Solvent
Invest in a high-quality gun-specific solvent. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Gun Lubricant
Choose a reliable gun lubricant for after cleaning. This will keep the components of your AR-15 working smoothly.
Cleaning Cloths/Rags/Paper Towels
Essential for wiping down parts and cleaning up spills.
Toothbrush or Small Cleaning Brushes
These are ideal for scrubbing hard-to-reach areas.
Optional Aids
Consider a bore guide to protect the chamber, pin punches to disassemble the bolt carrier group, a bench block, and a cleaning mat to protect your work surface.
Breaking Down Your AR-15: The Field Stripping Process
Field stripping your AR-15 is the process of disassembling it into its primary components for cleaning. It’s a straightforward procedure but requires care and attention to detail. Here’s how to do it:
Magazine and Chamber Confirmation
Double-check – and triple-check – the magazine is removed and the chamber is empty. Safety first, always!
Separating the Receivers
Push out the takedown pin that connects the upper and lower receivers. Next, push out the pivot pin. The upper and lower receivers should now separate easily.
Charging Handle Removal
Pull back the charging handle and slide it out of the upper receiver. It usually comes out easily.
Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Extraction
Remove the BCG from the upper receiver. It should slide out freely.
BCG Disassembly (Careful Handling)
This is the more complex part. Remove the bolt from the bolt carrier. Then, remove the firing pin retaining pin. After that, remove the cam pin. Finally, push the firing pin out of the bolt carrier. Be mindful of the small parts and ensure they don’t get lost. A pin punch set can be helpful here.
Take your time and work methodically. Keep all the removed parts organized to ensure easy reassembly. It can be helpful to lay out the parts on your cleaning mat in the order you remove them.
Deep Cleaning the Upper Receiver
The upper receiver houses the barrel and the mechanism that drives the action. Cleaning it thoroughly is crucial for accuracy and reliability.
Bore Cleaning
- Insert a bore guide if you have one. This will help protect the chamber.
- Apply gun solvent to the bore brush.
- Insert the bore brush from the chamber end into the barrel. Scrub the barrel, moving the brush back and forth. Work from the chamber end to the muzzle.
- Once the barrel is scrubbed, withdraw the brush.
- Attach a solvent-soaked patch to the cleaning rod and push it through the bore from the chamber to the muzzle.
- Repeat using clean, solvent-soaked patches until the patches emerge clean.
- Finally, run dry patches through the bore to remove any remaining solvent.
Chamber Cleaning
- Apply gun solvent to the chamber brush.
- Insert the chamber brush into the chamber and scrub thoroughly.
- Clean the chamber with clean patches until they come out clean.
BCG Cleaning
- Clean the bolt: Apply solvent and use a brush to remove carbon buildup from the bolt. Pay close attention to the locking lugs.
- Clean the bolt carrier: Use solvent and a brush to clean the bolt carrier thoroughly. Pay special attention to the gas key, ensuring it’s clear of carbon.
- Inspect the gas rings on the bolt. They should move freely.
- Use a small brush or toothbrush to remove carbon from hard-to-reach areas.
Cleaning the Upper Receiver Parts
Clean the upper receiver, the charging handle, and any other parts with solvent and a cloth or brush.
Cleaning the Lower Receiver
The lower receiver houses the trigger mechanism and other critical components.
Lower Receiver Cleaning
Wipe down the exterior of the lower receiver.
Trigger Group Inspection
Inspect the trigger group and associated components for any debris or dirt.
Trigger Group Cleaning
Use a brush and solvent to clean the trigger group. Be careful not to damage any parts.
Proper Lubrication: The Key to Smooth Operation
Proper lubrication is essential to ensure your AR-15 operates smoothly and reliably. Friction is the enemy. Lubrication reduces friction, minimizes wear, and helps prevent malfunctions.
Lubrication Points
Apply a few drops of high-quality gun lubricant to the following areas:
- The bolt
- The bolt carrier group (especially the rails)
- The charging handle
- The trigger group
- The buffer spring and the buffer tube
Lubrication Technique
Use the lubricant sparingly. A little bit goes a long way. Avoid over-lubricating, as this can attract dirt and debris.
Proper Lubrication Prevents Malfunctions
Keeping your rifle lubricated will prevent malfunctions and keeps your AR-15 reliable.
Putting It All Back Together: Reassembly Steps
Reassembling your AR-15 is the reverse of the field stripping process. Be sure to put the parts back in the correct order and orientation.
BCG Reassembly
Reassemble the bolt into the bolt carrier. Reinstall the firing pin, cam pin, and firing pin retaining pin.
BCG Insertion
Slide the bolt carrier group back into the upper receiver.
Charging Handle Installation
Insert the charging handle back into the upper receiver.
Receiver Reconnection
Align the upper and lower receivers and insert the pivot and takedown pins to reconnect the receivers.
Function Test
Once reassembled, perform a function test. Cycle the charging handle several times to ensure smooth operation. Dry-fire the rifle to check the trigger.
Addressing Common Cleaning Challenges
Sometimes, you might encounter challenges during the cleaning process.
Stubborn Carbon
Persistent carbon buildup may require a dedicated carbon remover or more aggressive brushing. Consider soaking the part in solvent for a while.
Difficult Part Removal/Installation
If parts are difficult to remove or install, double-check that you are using the correct technique and applying enough but not excessive force.
Corrosion
If you notice signs of corrosion, address it immediately. Clean the affected area thoroughly, apply a rust inhibitor, and make sure to store your rifle in a dry environment.
Useful Tips and Tricks for Best Practices
Here are some helpful tips to enhance your AR-15 cleaning routine:
Cleaning Frequency
Clean your AR-15 after every shooting session. At a minimum, clean it after every few hundred rounds. If you are shooting in adverse conditions (dusty, muddy), cleaning is required more often.
Quality Supplies
Always invest in high-quality cleaning supplies. Cheap tools and chemicals can damage your rifle.
Professional Cleaning
Consider having your AR-15 professionally cleaned periodically.
Proper Storage
Store your AR-15 in a secure, dry location.
Regular Inspection
Inspect your rifle regularly for wear and tear, as well as any signs of malfunction.
Conclusion
Maintaining your AR-15 through regular cleaning is not optional; it’s a necessity for its performance, longevity, and, most importantly, for your safety. This guide provides a detailed roadmap for the cleaning process, starting with essential safety measures and covering every step, from disassembling the rifle to meticulous cleaning and proper lubrication. By following these instructions consistently, you can ensure your AR-15 remains in optimal condition and ready for any situation. Remember that with the AR-15, as with all firearms, responsible ownership is paramount.
Always keep your firearm unloaded and pointed in a safe direction when cleaning.
Disclaimer
This guide is intended for informational purposes only. The author is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from following these instructions. Always consult your owner’s manual or a qualified gunsmith for detailed instructions specific to your AR-15 and its components. Adhere to all local and federal laws.
