Maintaining your AR-15 rifle is crucial for its longevity, reliability, and safety. Regular cleaning prevents malfunctions, extends the lifespan of your firearm, and ensures it operates smoothly when you need it most. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough of how to clean your AR-15, covering everything from necessary tools and supplies to the step-by-step process. We'll even cover troubleshooting common issues you might encounter. Remember always to follow all applicable local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm ownership and handling.
Disassembling Your AR-15 for Cleaning
Before you start cleaning, you'll need to safely disassemble your AR-15. This process varies slightly depending on the specific model, but the general steps are consistent. Always ensure the firearm is unloaded and the chamber is clear before beginning any disassembly.
Tools and Supplies You'll Need:
- AR-15 Cleaning Kit: A comprehensive kit typically includes a cleaning rod, bore brush, patches, a cleaning solvent, gun oil, and a cleaning mat.
- Eye and Hearing Protection: Essential for safety.
- Soft Cloth: For wiping down components.
- Small Container: For disposing of used cleaning patches.
- Torque Wrench (Optional): For reassembling to manufacturer-specified torque.
Step-by-Step Disassembly:
- Verify Unloaded: Double-check the chamber and magazine are empty. Visually inspect the firearm.
- Remove Magazine: Eject the magazine from the lower receiver.
- Check Chamber Again: Manually cycle the charging handle to ensure the chamber is completely empty.
- Remove Bolt Carrier Group (BCG): Retract the charging handle fully, then carefully remove the BCG from the upper receiver.
- Remove Upper Receiver: Separate the upper receiver from the lower receiver by unscrewing the takedown pins. You may need a punch or similar tool for this.
- Inspect Components: Carefully inspect all components for any signs of damage or excessive wear before cleaning.
Cleaning the AR-15: A Step-by-Step Process
Once your AR-15 is disassembled, you can begin the cleaning process. This process should be performed methodically to prevent damage and ensure thorough cleaning.
Cleaning the Barrel:
- Attach Cleaning Rod: Carefully attach the cleaning rod to the bore guide, ensuring it's aligned with the barrel's bore.
- Apply Solvent: Apply a small amount of gun cleaning solvent to the bore brush.
- Clean the Barrel: Run the brush through the barrel several times, working from the chamber to the muzzle.
- Use Patches: Follow the brush with a patch attached to the cleaning rod. Repeat until the patches come out clean.
- Dry Patching: Follow the solvent patches with dry patches to remove any remaining solvent.
Cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG):
- Disassemble the BCG: Separate the bolt from the carrier.
- Clean Components: Use a brush and solvent to clean all parts of the BCG, paying close attention to the firing pin and extractor.
- Remove Carbon Build-up: Use a pick or similar tool to remove stubborn carbon deposits.
- Thoroughly Dry: Make sure all components are completely dry before re-oiling.
Cleaning the Upper and Lower Receivers:
- Remove Debris: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the upper and lower receivers.
- Wipe Down: Wipe down all surfaces with a clean, lightly oiled cloth.
- Inspect for Wear: Check for any excessive wear or damage.
Lubricating Your AR-15
After cleaning, lightly lubricate all moving parts with gun oil. This is crucial for preventing wear and tear, and ensures smooth operation. Focus on areas like the bolt carrier group, charging handle, and trigger mechanism. Avoid over-lubrication, as excess oil can attract dirt and debris.
Reassembling Your AR-15
Reassembly is the reverse of the disassembly process. Take your time and ensure all components are properly aligned. If you're unsure about any step, refer to your AR-15's owner's manual or consult a qualified gunsmith.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Failure to Feed/Eject: This often indicates a dirty or improperly lubricated BCG. Thoroughly clean and lubricate the BCG.
- Jamming: Check for obstructions in the barrel or malfunctions in the BCG.
- Poor Accuracy: This could be caused by a dirty barrel or damaged components.
Frequency of Cleaning:
How often you should clean your AR-15 depends on the usage. After every range session or after every 200-300 rounds, is a general recommendation. If you've fired it in dusty or dirty conditions, more frequent cleaning is necessary.
Remember, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for the reliable operation of your AR-15. By following these steps, you can keep your firearm in top condition for years to come. Always prioritize safety and consult your owner's manual or a qualified professional if you have any questions.