Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to clean an AR-15! Keeping your AR-15 clean is not only crucial for its longevity and optimal performance, but it also ensures your safety and the accuracy of your shots. Whether you are a seasoned AR-15 owner or a beginner, this article will provide you with all the necessary steps and tips to clean your AR-15 effectively.
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty details of cleaning your AR-15, let’s briefly discuss why regular cleaning is essential. The AR-15 is a semi-automatic rifle that operates by propelling gas from the fired cartridge to cycle the action, which can lead to the buildup of carbon and fouling. Regular cleaning prevents malfunctions, improves accuracy, and extends the lifespan of your firearm.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Ensuring you have all the necessary cleaning supplies is the first step in cleaning your AR-15 effectively. Here are the essential supplies you will need:
Cleaning Rod and Bore Brush
A cleaning rod and bore brush are essential for removing fouling and carbon buildup from the barrel. The cleaning rod should be long enough to reach the full length of the barrel, and the bore brush should match the caliber of your AR-15.
Gun Cleaning Solvent
Invest in a high-quality gun cleaning solvent that is specifically formulated for firearms. This solvent will help break down carbon, copper, and other fouling agents, making them easier to remove.
Patches and Cleaning Jag
Patches and a cleaning jag are used to apply the cleaning solvent to the barrel and remove debris. The patches should be the appropriate size to fit snugly in the barrel.
Nylon Brush and Toothbrush
A nylon brush and toothbrush are useful for scrubbing hard-to-reach areas, such as the bolt carrier group and other intricate parts of the AR-15.
Lubricant
Choose a high-quality lubricant that is specifically designed for firearms. Proper lubrication is crucial for the smooth functioning of your AR-15.
Cleaning Mat or Workbench
Having a dedicated cleaning mat or workbench will help keep your cleaning area organized and prevent any damage to your firearm or work surface.
By gathering these supplies beforehand, you’ll have everything you need to clean your AR-15 effectively.
Unloading and Disassembling Your AR-15
Before you begin cleaning, it is crucial to ensure your AR-15 is unloaded and in a safe condition. Follow these steps to unload and disassemble your AR-15:
Unload Your AR-15
Remove the magazine from your AR-15 and visually inspect the chamber to ensure there is no ammunition present. Always treat your firearm as if it is loaded, even if you believe it is empty.
Perform a Function Check
Once the magazine is removed, pull the charging handle back and lock the bolt carrier group to the rear. Verify that the chamber is empty and visually inspect the ejection port to ensure there are no rounds present.
Disassemble Your AR-15
Refer to your AR-15’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on disassembling your firearm. Generally, you will need to remove the takedown pins to separate the upper and lower receivers, allowing easy access to the internal components.
Cleaning the Barrel and Bore
The barrel is one of the most critical components of your AR-15, and cleaning it properly is essential for maintaining accuracy and reducing wear. Follow these steps to clean the barrel and bore:
Prepare the Cleaning Rod and Bore Brush
Attach the appropriate caliber bore brush to your cleaning rod. Apply a small amount of gun cleaning solvent to the brush.
Insert the Cleaning Rod
Insert the cleaning rod with the attached bore brush into the chamber end of the barrel. Gently push the brush through the barrel, ensuring it passes through the entire length.
Scrub the Barrel
Using a back-and-forth motion, scrub the barrel with the bore brush. Pay extra attention to areas with heavy fouling or carbon buildup.
Apply Cleaning Solvent
Attach a cleaning patch to the cleaning jag and apply gun cleaning solvent to it. Insert the jag and patch into the chamber end of the barrel.
Push the Patch Through the Barrel
Push the patch through the barrel using the cleaning rod. Repeat this process with fresh patches until they come out clean.
Inspect and Lubricate
Inspect the barrel for any remaining fouling or debris. If necessary, repeat the cleaning process. Once the barrel is clean, apply a light coat of lubricant to protect it from corrosion.
Cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group (BCG) is a vital part of your AR-15’s functioning. Follow these steps to clean the BCG:
Disassemble the BCG
Remove the retaining pin or firing pin retaining bolt from the bolt carrier group to disassemble it. Take note of the orientation of each component for easy reassembly.
Clean the Bolt Carrier
Using a nylon brush or toothbrush, scrub the bolt carrier, paying close attention to the bolt lugs, gas rings, and firing pin channel. Remove any carbon buildup or fouling.
Clean the Bolt
Scrub the bolt with a nylon brush or toothbrush, focusing on the bolt face, extractor, and ejector. Ensure all carbon and debris are removed.
Clean the Firing Pin
Inspect the firing pin for any fouling or debris. If necessary, clean it with a nylon brush or toothbrush and ensure it moves freely.
Lubricate and Reassemble
Apply a light coat of lubricant to all the components of the bolt carrier group, ensuring smooth movement. Reassemble the BCG in the correct orientation.
Lubrication and Maintenance
Proper lubrication is crucial for the smooth functioning of your AR-15. Follow these steps to lubricate and maintain your firearm:
Apply Lubricant
Using an appropriate firearms lubricant, apply a small amount to key areas of your AR-15, such as the bolt carrier group, trigger assembly, and other moving parts. Ensure the lubricant is evenly distributed.
Wipe Excess Lubricant
After applying the lubricant, use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess. Excessive lubrication can attract dirt and debris, leading to malfunctions.
Inspect and Clean Regularly
Regularly inspect your AR-15 for any signs of wear, damage, or excessive fouling. Clean your firearm as needed to maintain optimal performance.
Cleaning the Upper and Lower Receivers
The upper and lower receivers house many critical components of your AR-15. Follow these steps to clean the upper and lower receivers:
Remove Debris and Carbon
Using a nylon brush or toothbrush, remove any debris, carbon, and fouling from the upper and lower receivers. Pay close attention to the trigger assembly and other intricate parts.
Clean the Magwell
Scrub the magazine well with a nylon brush or toothbrush to remove any dirt or debris that may hinder the insertion of magazines.
Inspect and Wipe Down
Inspect the receivers for any signs of wear or damage. Wipe down the surfaces with a clean cloth to remove any remaining cleaning solvent or debris.
Cleaning the Trigger Group
The trigger group is responsible for your AR-15’s firing mechanism. Follow these steps to clean the trigger group:
Remove the Trigger Assembly
Disassemble the trigger group according to your AR-15’s owner’s manual. Take note of the orientation of each component for easy reassembly.
Clean the Trigger Components
Inspect each component of the trigger group for any fouling or debris. Use a nylon brush or toothbrush to scrub each part, ensuring they are free from dirt and carbon.
Lubricate and Reassemble
Apply a light coat of lubricant to the trigger components, ensuring smooth movement. Reassemble the trigger group in the correct orientation.
Reassembling Your AR-15
After cleaning and maintenance, it’s time to put your AR-15 back together. Follow these steps to reassemble your AR-15:
Reassemble the Upper and Lower Receivers
Align the takedown pins and reattach the upper and lower receivers. Ensure the pins are fully inserted and secure.
Reinsert the Bolt Carrier Group
Push the takedown pins back into place, ensuring they are fully engaged and secure. Your AR-15 should now be fully assembled.
Final Inspection and Safety Checks
Once your AR-15 is reassembled, it’s crucial to perform a final inspection and safety checks before firing. Follow these steps to ensure your AR-15 is in perfect working order and safe for use:
Visual Inspection
Visually inspect your AR-15 for any signs of damage, wear, or loose components. Ensure that all pins, screws, and parts are properly tightened.
Function Check
Perform a function check to verify that your AR-15 is operating correctly. This includes testing the safety selector, trigger, magazine release, and bolt catch.
Operate the Charging Handle
Ensure that the charging handle moves smoothly and that the bolt carrier group cycles properly. Check for any abnormal resistance or malfunctions.
Check the Magazine
Insert a magazine into the magwell and ensure that it locks securely. Test the magazine release to ensure it functions properly and releases the magazine without any issues.
Safety Precautions
Always remember to handle your AR-15 safely. Keep your finger off the trigger, point the firearm in a safe direction, and follow all firearms safety rules at all times.
Range Testing
Once you have completed the cleaning and safety checks, you can take your AR-15 to the range for testing. Start with a few rounds to ensure that your firearm is functioning correctly before proceeding with regular shooting.
Regularly cleaning your AR-15 is a vital aspect of responsible gun ownership. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can maintain the performance, reliability, and longevity of your AR-15. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and maintenance. Happy shooting!
