How to Clean Outside of Gun
As a responsible gun owner, cleaning your firearm regularly is essential to ensure optimal performance, safety, and longevity. Cleaning the exterior of your gun, also known as the "outside" or "finish," is crucial to remove dirt, debris, and corrosion that can damage the gun’s cosmetics and performance. In this article, we’ll cover the step-by-step guide on how to clean the outside of your gun.
Why Clean the Outside of the Gun?
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to understand why cleaning the outside of the gun is crucial.
• Prevents Rust and Corrosion: Moisture, salt, and humidity can cause rust and corrosion on the metal surfaces, leading to discoloration, damage, and potentially even jamming.
• Maintains Aesthetics: The finish on your gun, whether it’s blued, chrome-plated, or coated, is its exterior appearance. Cleaning regularly helps maintain its original sheen and prevents dullness.
• Prevents Debris Build-up: Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the gun’s exterior, interfering with the gun’s proper function and potentially causing scratches or marks.
Equipment Needed
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and cleaning supplies:
Recommended Cleaning Supplies:
| Supply | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Soft cloth | Buffing and cleaning |
| Gun-specific cleaning solvent (e.g., Hoppe’s #9) | Cleaning and degreasing |
| Mild dish soap | Cleaning and degreasing |
| Water | Dilution for cleaning and degreasing |
| Dry soft cloth | Buffing and drying |
| Silicone-based lubricant | Lubricating |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start with a Soft Cloth
Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth, such as a microfiber cloth, to wipe away any loose dirt or debris from the gun’s surface. This will help prevent scratches during the cleaning process.
Important: Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or scouring pads on your gun, as they can damage the finish.
- Clean with Gun-Specific Cleaning Solvent (and Mild Dish Soap)
Apply a small amount of gun-specific cleaning solvent or mild dish soap to a clean cloth. Wipe the solvent-soaked cloth over the gun’s surfaces, working in sections to avoid spreading dirt or residue. Be sure to focus on crevices and areas where dirt tends to accumulate.
Tips: Use a gentle circular motion to clean the surfaces. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can damage the finish or strip away oil.
- Remove Excess Solvent with a Dry Cloth
Wipe the gun’s surface with a dry, clean cloth to remove any excess solvent or soap residue.
- Buff and Polish with a Dry Cloth
Using a clean, dry cloth, gently buff the gun’s surfaces to remove any remaining scratches, marks, or streaks. This will help reveal the original finish.
- Apply Silicone-Based Lubricant (if necessary)
If the gun has moving parts (e.g., bolt carriers, pivots, or slide), apply a silicone-based lubricant to those areas to maintain smooth movement and prevent corrosion.
- Inspect and Finish
After cleaning, inspect the gun’s surface for any remaining streaks or debris. Use a soft, dry cloth to buff away any remaining imperfections and reveal the original finish.
Tips and Tricks
• Clean your gun in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling cleaning solvent fumes or dust.
• Avoid using too much solvent as it can damage the finish or harm your hands.
• Test cleaning solvents and products on a small, inconspicuous area before applying them to your gun to ensure they won’t damage the finish or cause discoloration.
• Clean your gun immediately after use to remove dirt, debris, and corrosive substances.
In conclusion, cleaning the outside of your gun is crucial to maintain its appearance, prevent corrosion, and ensure optimal performance. By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to a beautifully clean and well-maintained firearm. Always remember to handle your gun with care and attention to detail to ensure your shooting experience remains enjoyable and safe.
