This is likely one of the most controversial topics surrounding firearm ownership. Do it, don’t do it, do it after every range day, don’t do it for years. There’s a TON of advice, views, and opinions out there on the topic. Regardless of where anyone is on the topic, something that is not maintained will eventually fail. Firearms are no exception.
But Evan, it takes too long to clean my gun after every range trip. Does it? Really? Or are you just lazy? Running some cleaning patches down the barrel with some solvent to help reduce the buildup from the day’s activities is not a time consuming process. Less than 15 minutes if you have your gear properly organized. You don’t have to do a field strip after every range day but doing some simple basic cleaning can keep the barrel from getting fouling (that’s buildup and gunk you don’t want in a barrel for those that don’t know) or getting eaten away by corrosive powder.
Every firearm should have this simple and basic cleaning step performed after every range day and after a few thousand rounds, you should consider field stripping the firearm for a more detailed cleaning and oiling. This is a great task to do on a rainy day or on a cold winter day to get them ready for the next season!
Owning a firearm comes with the responsibility of keeping it in safe, working condition. Basic maintenance is not about making a firearm perform better than intended. It is about reducing the chance of preventable failures, damage, and unsafe conditions.
1. Dirt and fouling can cause malfunctions
Every time a firearm is fired, residue is left behind. Powder fouling, carbon, dust, lint, and other debris can build up in and around moving parts. If enough accumulates, the firearm may fail to feed, fire, extract, or eject properly.
For a new gun owner: a firearm that is dirty or neglected may not operate the way you expect it to.
2. Corrosion can damage critical parts
Firearms are made from metal, and metal is vulnerable to rust and corrosion. Moisture from humidity, sweat, fingerprints, rain, or improper storage can gradually damage exposed surfaces and internal components.
Minor surface rust may be repairable, but corrosion that is allowed to continue can weaken parts, damage the bore, and affect the firearm’s reliability. Regular inspection and proper storage make it much easier to catch these problems early.
3. Wear or damage can go unnoticed
Routine maintenance gives you an opportunity to inspect the firearm. Cracks, loose components, unusual wear, damaged magazines, or other problems are easier to notice when you periodically examine the gun rather than leaving it untouched for months or years.
You do not need to be a gunsmith. If something looks damaged, feels different, or does not operate normally, stop using the firearm and have it inspected by a qualified gunsmith or the manufacturer.
4. Old or improper lubrication can create problems
Firearms generally require some lubrication, but that does not mean more is better. Lubricant can dry out, collect dirt, or migrate into places where it is not needed. Excessive lubrication can also attract dust and debris.
Following the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions helps ensure that the correct areas receive the appropriate amount and type of lubricant.
5. A neglected firearm becomes less predictable
Reliability matters whenever a firearm is handled. A gun that has been stored for a long period, exposed to moisture, or repeatedly fired without inspection may develop problems that are not immediately obvious.
Basic maintenance helps keep the firearm’s condition known rather than assumed. That is especially important for a new gun owner who is still becoming familiar with how the firearm normally looks, feels, and operates.
A good rule for new owners
Read the owner’s manual before cleaning or disassembling the firearm. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and procedures. Before any cleaning or inspection, make sure the firearm is completely unloaded and that ammunition is kept away from the work area.
If you are uncertain about disassembly, damaged parts, unusual wear, or a malfunction, do not experiment. Have the firearm inspected by a qualified gunsmith or contact the manufacturer.
End of the day, take care of your firearm to ensure it takes care of you in the moment’s that matter. Until next time, take care of yourself and each other.
Evan
