Should You Clean a New Gun Before Shooting?
When you first bring home a new firearm, it’s natural to be excited to try it out and see how it performs. However, before you start shooting, it’s essential to consider whether you should clean the gun first. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of cleaning a new gun before shooting and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
What’s in the Box?
When you purchase a new firearm, it usually comes in a box with a set of instructions and some lubricants. While the gun may look shiny and new, it’s likely been sitting on a shelf for some time, collecting dust and debris. The box contents may include:
• Gun
• Owner’s manual
• Safety instructions
• Lubricants (e.g., gun oil, silicone spray)
• Cleaning kit (may be included or not)
Why Clean the Gun Before Shooting?
There are several reasons why cleaning your new gun before shooting is a good idea:
• Prevents Rust and Corrosion: If the gun has been sitting for a while, there may be moisture in the air that can cause rust and corrosion to form. Cleaning the gun removes any existing debris and prevents future damage.
• Removes Factory Grease and Waxes: Most guns come with a layer of factory grease and waxes applied to protect the metal. These substances can interfere with the gun’s performance and accuracy. Cleaning the gun removes these substances, allowing the gun to function properly.
• Ensures Proper Functioning: A clean gun is a gun that functions properly. Cleaning the gun ensures that all moving parts are free of debris and functioning correctly.
• Saves Time in the Long Run: Cleaning the gun regularly, including when you first get it, saves time in the long run. It prevents the buildup of grime and debris that can take hours to remove.
How to Clean Your New Gun
Cleaning your new gun is a relatively simple process that can be completed with a few basic tools:
• Cleaning Kit: A cleaning kit typically includes a rod, brushes, and patches. These are available at most gun shops or online.
• Gun Oil: Gun oil is used to lubricate moving parts and protect the metal.
• Soft Cloth: A soft cloth is used to wipe down the gun and remove any remaining debris.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your new gun:
- Field Strip the Gun: Field strip the gun by removing any detachable parts, such as the magazine and stock.
- Use a Cleaning Rod: Insert the cleaning rod into the gun’s barrel and use the brush to sweep out any debris.
- Use a Patch: Insert a patch into the cleaning rod and pull it through the barrel to remove any remaining debris.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a small amount of gun oil to moving parts, such as the slide and action.
- Wipe Down the Gun: Use a soft cloth to wipe down the gun, removing any remaining debris or lubricant.
When to Clean the Gun
While it’s recommended to clean your new gun before shooting, there are certain situations where it’s more critical to clean the gun:
• After Each Shooting Session: Clean the gun after each shooting session to remove any debris and prevent rust and corrosion.
• After a Long Break: If you’re putting the gun away for an extended period, it’s essential to clean the gun before storing it.
• After a Muddy or Wet Environment: If you’ve shot the gun in a muddy or wet environment, it’s critical to clean the gun as soon as possible to prevent rust and corrosion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cleaning your new gun before shooting is a crucial step in maintaining its performance and longevity. It prevents rust and corrosion, removes factory grease and waxes, ensures proper functioning, and saves time in the long run. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can ensure your new gun is in top condition for your first shooting session. Remember to clean the gun after each shooting session, after a long break, and after a muddy or wet environment to keep your gun running smoothly.
Table: Cleaning Your New Gun
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Field strip the gun |
| 2 | Use a cleaning rod with brush to sweep out debris |
| 3 | Use a patch to remove remaining debris |
| 4 | Lubricate moving parts with gun oil |
| 5 | Wipe down the gun with a soft cloth |
Key Takeaways
• Always clean your new gun before shooting to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Remove factory grease and waxes to ensure proper functioning.
• Clean the gun after each shooting session, after a long break, and after a muddy or wet environment.
• Use a cleaning kit, gun oil, and soft cloth to clean the gun.
• Field strip the gun and use a cleaning rod with brush and patch to remove debris.
• Lubricate moving parts and wipe down the gun with a soft cloth.
