The Importance of Regular Gun Cleaning: Debunking Myths and Best Practices
As someone who spends a significant amount of time with firearms, I can confidently say that regular cleaning is an essential part of maintaining the performance and longevity of your firearm. While there are various opinions and misconceptions about how often a gun should be cleaned, I will share my experiences and insights based on both my personal use and my profession as a gunsmith.
Common Myths and Their Debunking
Some argue against frequent cleaning, suggesting that breaking down and reassembling the gun for cleaning is counterproductive. However, this argument is based on a misunderstanding of how firearms are designed. Guns are specifically engineered to handle the rigors of basic field stripping and cleaning. In fact, shooting a gun repeatedly, such as firing a box of ammunition, imposes more wear and tear than cleaning it regularly.
It's true that many experienced gun owners brag about firing thousands of rounds without cleaning, but this is not a recommended practice. The example of a car driven 200,000 miles without an oil change is often used to illustrate why this approach is flawed. Just as a car requires regular maintenance for optimal performance and longevity, a gun also needs to be cleaned to ensure it functions correctly and safely.
My Personal Experience and Recommendations
As a gunsmith, I have encountered numerous malfunctioning firearms that were simply in need of a good cleaning. Cleaning a gun is a therapeutic process for me, and it ensures that my firearm operates smoothly and effectively. The key areas that require cleaning are the barrel, chamber, lower feed ramp, breech face, and rear slide rails. Lucas oil CLP (Cleaning Lubricating and Preservative) is my preferred choice for cleaning and lubricating these components. This product is highly reliable in extreme cold and heat, making it ideal for my location in West Virginia.
When I carry my firearm concealed, lint, dirt, and other debris can infiltrate the gun. To prevent this, I perform a field strip and wipe down the gun every 1 to 2 weeks. This process involves using a bore snake to remove lint from the barrel and applying additional lubricant as needed. It's important to ensure that the gun remains properly lubricated to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Myth: Cleaning is Overrated
There is a common belief that the frequency of cleaning is overemphasized, and that as long as the firearm is lubricated, it can go through thousands of rounds without cleaning. While it's true that some firearms can go longer between cleanings, relying solely on lubrication without regular cleaning is not a sufficient strategy. As Pat Rogers demonstrated with his BCM AR-15, adding oil and occasional lubrication can keep a gun running, but regular cleaning will ensure optimal performance and longevity.
My preferred firearm, the Beretta M9A1, is cleaned after each use. While this might seem excessive, it's essential for maintaining the firearm's performance and safety. Failing to clean a gun regularly can lead to buildup and potential malfunctions.
Conclusion
Regular gun cleaning is a necessary and beneficial practice that ensures your firearm operates efficiently and safely. While there are various opinions on how frequently a gun should be cleaned, the most important factor is regular maintenance to prevent buildup and potential malfunctions. Whether you are a concealed carrier or a recreational shooter, taking the time to properly clean your firearm is crucial for both performance and safety.