How to Clean a 12 Bore Shotgun: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cleaning your 12 bore shotgun regularly is essential to maintain its performance, reliability, and longevity. A clean shotgun is not only safer to use, but it also ensures that your hunting or shooting experience is enjoyable and successful. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to clean a 12 bore shotgun.
Why Clean Your Shotgun?
Before we dive into the cleaning process, it’s essential to understand why cleaning your shotgun is crucial. Here are some reasons why:
- Safety: A dirty shotgun can lead to accidents, as dirt and debris can accumulate in the action and trigger, causing unexpected discharges.
- Performance: A clean shotgun ensures consistent and accurate shooting, as dirt and grime can affect the accuracy and reliability of the weapon.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning helps to prevent corrosion and wear on the shotgun’s components, extending its lifespan.
- Appearance: A clean shotgun looks great and is a reflection of your pride in your firearm.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start cleaning your shotgun, make sure you have the following supplies:
- Gun cleaning kit: A kit specifically designed for cleaning shotguns, which typically includes a cleaning rod, bore brush, patches, and cleaning solvent.
- Cleaning solvent: A gentle, non-abrasive cleaning solution designed for shotguns.
- Patches: Cotton or felt patches used to wipe away dirt and debris.
- Bore brush: A brush specifically designed to clean the bore of the shotgun.
- Torn patches: Rags or paper towels used to wipe away excess cleaning solution and debris.
- Gun oil: A light oil used to lubricate the shotgun’s components.
- Gun rag: A soft cloth used to wipe down the shotgun’s exterior.
Step 1: Disassemble the Shotgun
Before you start cleaning, disassemble the shotgun to ensure that you can access all areas that need cleaning. This typically involves:
- Removing the magazine cap: Twist and pull the magazine cap to remove it.
- Removing the bolt or fore-end: Pull the bolt or fore-end away from the shotgun.
- Removing the stock: Pull the stock away from the shotgun.
- Removing any additional components: Remove any additional components, such as a trigger group or recoil pad.
Step 2: Clean the Bore
Use the following steps to clean the bore of the shotgun:
- Insert the bore brush: Insert the bore brush into the shotgun’s bore, making sure it’s fully seated.
- Apply cleaning solvent: Apply a small amount of cleaning solvent to the bore brush.
- Run the bore brush: Run the bore brush through the shotgun’s bore, applying gentle to moderate pressure.
- Remove the bore brush: Remove the bore brush and wipe it clean with a torn patch.
- Repeat the process: Repeat the process 2-3 times, or until the bore brush comes out clean.
Step 3: Clean the Chamber and Action
Use the following steps to clean the chamber and action of the shotgun:
- Insert a patch: Insert a patch into the chamber and wipe it clean with a torn patch.
- Apply cleaning solvent: Apply a small amount of cleaning solvent to the patch.
- Wipe the action: Wipe the action and trigger group with a torn patch, making sure to remove any dirt or debris.
- Repeat the process: Repeat the process 2-3 times, or until the patch comes out clean.
Step 4: Clean the Stock and Exterior
Use the following steps to clean the stock and exterior of the shotgun:
- Wipe the stock: Wipe the stock with a gun rag, making sure to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply gun oil: Apply a small amount of gun oil to the stock and wipe it clean with a gun rag.
- Wipe the exterior: Wipe the exterior of the shotgun with a gun rag, making sure to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply gun oil: Apply a small amount of gun oil to the exterior and wipe it clean with a gun rag.
Step 5: Reassemble the Shotgun
Once you’ve completed the cleaning process, reassemble the shotgun in the reverse order that you disassembled it. Make sure that all components are securely fastened and the shotgun is safe to use.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to keep in mind when cleaning your 12 bore shotgun:
- Use the right cleaning solvent: Use a cleaning solvent specifically designed for shotguns, as other solvents can damage the weapon.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, as they can damage the shotgun’s components.
- Use a soft cloth: Use a soft cloth, such as a gun rag, to wipe down the shotgun’s exterior and avoid scratching the finish.
- Avoid over-oiling: Avoid over-oiling the shotgun, as this can attract dirt and debris.
- Clean the shotgun regularly: Clean the shotgun regularly, ideally after each use, to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating.
Conclusion
Cleaning your 12 bore shotgun is a crucial part of maintaining its performance, reliability, and longevity. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your shotgun is clean and ready for its next use. Remember to always use the right cleaning supplies, avoid harsh chemicals, and clean the shotgun regularly to keep it in top condition. Happy shooting!
