AR Cleaning

[UberTong]

Looking for some advice on cleaning my AR. I have never cleaned one before. I am wondering how often I should clean it, if there is a suggested 'cleaning kit', and a noob instructional manual on breaking her down. Any help is appreciated.

[Ronin13]

Dammit, now I can't remember what that stuff was called... I bought some awesome gun cleaning spray that basically sprays off all the gunk and carbon buildup and all you do is wipe it down after spraying.
Best I can tell you is get a good cleaning kit (Otis is fair but there are better out there).... my cranial flatulence is hindering my ability to remember any brands right now.
Field strip your rifle (I usually clean after every shoot), take out the bolt assembly and the buffer/spring then disassemble your bolt assembly and clean each individual piece, lightly lube (CLP is good) and reassemble, set aside. Clean buffer and spring and inside buffer tube. Set aside. Next clean your barrel with cleaning rod and cotton squares, recommend using gun cleaning spray and the cotton square will wipe it down- *Make sure barrel is dry after cleaning* Clean the star (can't remember exact name- brain farting) that is at the beginning of the barrel, it's the hardest part to clean. Clean lower receiver, if you don't know how to take all this apart just do the best you can with it fully assembled. Put everything back together, lube anywhere a bullet does not go *Very lightly* (basically buffer, bolt assembly, trigger assembly and you should be good. Check youtube for some videos or I can search and send you a link later tonight.

[blacklabel]

I've watched a few videos and read some guides but am curious what everyone else has to say.

I haven't shot my AR yet so this is definitely information that I'm going to need to know.

[UberTong]

Dammit, now I can't remember what that stuff was called... I bought some awesome gun cleaning spray that basically sprays off all the gunk and carbon buildup and all you do is wipe it down after spraying.
Best I can tell you is get a good cleaning kit (Otis is fair but there are better out there).... my cranial flatulence is hindering my ability to remember any brands right now.
Field strip your rifle (I usually clean after every shoot), take out the bolt assembly and the buffer/spring then disassemble your bolt assembly and clean each individual piece, lightly lube (CLP is good) and reassemble, set aside. Clean buffer and spring and inside buffer tube. Set aside. Next clean your barrel with cleaning rod and cotton squares, recommend using gun cleaning spray and the cotton square will wipe it down- *Make sure barrel is dry after cleaning* Clean the star (can't remember exact name- brain farting) that is at the beginning of the barrel, it's the hardest part to clean. Clean lower receiver, if you don't know how to take all this apart just do the best you can with it fully assembled. Put everything back together, lube anywhere a bullet does not go *Very lightly* (basically buffer, bolt assembly, trigger assembly and you should be good. Check youtube for some videos or I can search and send you a link later tonight.

Good info, thanks Ronin. I think I may want someone to walk me through this first though. I've rebuilt Audi's, but guns are a little different...

[UberTong]

I will let you know what I find out Chevy, maybe we should have a course taught by none other than MR RONIN [ROFL1]. I'm kidding Ronin, wouldn't subject you to that community service.

[Marlin]

Boresnake.

Or, Otis. Both work for me real well.

Boresnake is real good for a quickie type cleaning.

Otis,toothbrush, and a few q-tips. you should be able to get it inspection clean if you want.

I have nothing going on if work doesn't call. I could give you a run down if you would like.

[cebeu]

M4Carbine.net Forums > AR/M4 > AR General Discussion

Thread title: Basic AR15 cleaning

Note: No links provided, I rarely cross-post and/or link direct to that site but...you'll have no problem finding it (of course, good input will be provided here as well :) )

[UberTong]

Boresnake.

Or, Otis. Both work for me real well.

Boresnake is real good for a quickie type cleaning.

Otis,toothbrush, and a few q-tips. you should be able to get it inspection clean if you want.

I have nothing going on if work doesn't call. I could give you a run down if you would like.

Many thanks, I would appreciate that sir.

[Graves]

IMO CLP is only good for cleaning; dries up way too fast. I use Mobil1 for lube.

[Byte Stryke]

Ive been cleaning the AR Platform since 1974.
its just automatic at this point.

[Marlin]

Many thanks, I would appreciate that sir.
Let me know when..




IMO CLP is only good for cleaning; dries up way too fast. I use Mobil1 for lube.

This^^

[AirbornePathogen]

It's second nature to me too, after 5 years in the Army. I have an "issue" cleaning kit, a Bore Snake, and a can of Break-Free, and that suits me just fine. as far as procedures, I still use the Army ones for cleaning and lubrication. If you want to go that route, see if you can find a hard or online copy of TM9-1005-249-23P, that's the Army technical manual for the M16 family of rifles.

[leatherneck448]

get an OTIS kit from bowers, and some SLiP2000.

then youre set for materials.
I clean mine after every match, so about 200-300 rounds between cleanings.

these guns will run with pretty much any amount of abuse as long as theyre wet, so it doesnt REALLY matter how long between cleanings you wait. If you doubt this, then look up Filthy 14 on google.

just clean key parts like the bolt, carrier, and bore

hope this helps,
Kenny

[Tweety Bird]

And keep the oil outta the gas tube and gas key as much as you can. That stuff can coke up in there and cause trubble.

[UberTong]

Thanks for all the good info fellers, appreciate it.

[Ronin13]

Uber, I really wouldn't have a problem walking someone through a cleaning procedure. I find it actually more fulfilling than seeing folks who have no idea what they're doing and they end up screwing up a really nice system.
Kleenbore is the cleaning kit I use- my Army issue one just turned to doo doo after so many years of use.
Break Free Powder Blast gun cleaner also has done me very well with any weapon. The best cleaning tutorial you can find is the Magpul Dynamics: The Art of The Tactical Carbine, Title3: Weapon's Dis-assembly and Maintenance, Chris Costa knows his stuff.

[Ranger]

find a hard or online copy of TM9-1005-249-23P, that's the Army technical manual for the M16 family of rifles.

This is a good resource for someone who hasn't done it before. Everyone has their own way of cleaning their weapons but this is one that's been used a LOT. I think any resource you can get your hands on is beneficial.

For me I personally don't clean after every shoot unless I am throwing a ton of lead or in a very dirty/dusty/sandy situation - it's not like the old M16's that jammed like nuts, but this is my process and one that works for me - your mileage may vary.

[Cameron]

Cleaning an AR15!??!?! They are self cleaning (see Filthy 14 (http://www.bravocompanymfg.com/v/vspfiles/assets/images/filthy14_oct10.pdf)). That's the whole point of the DI system.

I can't remember the last time I cleaned my ARs like the mil teaches. I do a a basic wipe down with a rag, check all the parts are in good shape, maybe a boresnake through the ones with match barrels and then generous amounts of lube (I use Mobil 1 too) on the metal bits that move around, and you should be good to go.

If you mean getting dust and crap off them so they don't spread it through the house, so you don't get in trouble with your significant other, then I have found taking a shower with your AR is a good way to bond, and get rid of dust.

Dirty Dusty AR15 that hadn't been cleaned, just lubed for more than 5,000 rounds.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4498640257_4e9d385d4b_b.jpg

A quick shower...
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2687/4500090961_79785e6721_b.jpg

All clean now! Lubed up and ready for action! [Wiggle]
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4549652175_1d098a9536_b.jpg

Cameron

[Ranger]

Cameron, guys like you make me sick! I feel so inadequate with my mostly stock AR :).

[UberTong]

Awesome Cameron, that was good. Noob question here again whats on the front of your rifle? Shorty suppressor? Mean looking weapon, I love it dude. So youre saying I should shower with my rifle, she is kinda hot...mmm soapy. [ROFL3]

[Cameron]

Awesome Cameron, that was good. Noob question here again whats on the front of your rifle? Shorty suppressor?

No, it is a Noveske KX3 flash hider I have since removed it, and went back to a simple A2 flash hider in anticipation of getting a Surefire Sound Suppressor in the future.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3238/5815723786_e354972889_b.jpg

While I was being funny the simply fact is that AR15s really do not need a lot of cleaning. They do however need lube.

Cameron

[Byte Stryke]

Why have I been hearing cheap porn music in my head ever since Cameron's "Shower" post?

[ROFL1]

[UberTong]

Why have I been hearing cheap porn music in my head ever since Cameron's "Shower" post?

[ROFL1]


Haha 'brown chicken brown cow'...


Can someone on here explain the benefit of an SBR. I love the look of them, especially camerons. Do they shoot better at close range, are they just more versatile? Shit now I want one, how the hell am I supposed to keep up...I need an intervention, and not the rifle. [ROFL1]

[Byte Stryke]

Haha 'brown chicken brown cow'...


Can someone on here explain the benefit of an SBR. I love the look of them, especially camerons. Do they shoot better at close range, are they just more versatile? Shit now I want one, how the hell am I supposed to keep up...I need an intervention, and not the rifle. [ROFL1]


Clearance and maneuverability in a close quarters combat scenario.

that is all.

[Cameron]

Can someone on here explain the benefit of an SBR. I love the look of them, especially camerons. Do they shoot better at close range, are they just more versatile? Shit now I want one, how the hell am I supposed to keep up...I need an intervention, and not the rifle. [ROFL1]

Byte Stryke is spot on, they are just handier. The short barrel means they are very easy to use in close quarters and around vehicles. Do they do anything a 16" doesn't? Not really but my 10.5" SBR is my favourite and my most shot AR. It is also the AR that get's to spend each night in the bedroom loaded rather than unloaded in the safe...

Oh, and chicks dig 'em!
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4886502850_e7faea1dae_b.jpg

Cameron

[Byte Stryke]

Please Cam, Tell me you are not using a rifle round for home defense...


Oh Wait, you live on the other side of town, so I dont live within 6 houses of you.
[Eek3]

[UberTong]

Sweet, now I want one. Thanks jerk... [LOL]

I kid i kid...hmmm short barrels.

[UberTong]

Uber, I really wouldn't have a problem walking someone through a cleaning procedure. I find it actually more fulfilling than seeing folks who have no idea what they're doing and they end up screwing up a really nice system.
Kleenbore is the cleaning kit I use- my Army issue one just turned to doo doo after so many years of use.
Break Free Powder Blast gun cleaner also has done me very well with any weapon. The best cleaning tutorial you can find is the Magpul Dynamics: The Art of The Tactical Carbine, Title3: Weapon's Dis-assembly and Maintenance, Chris Costa knows his stuff.

Awesome, thanks for the offer. I'm heading out of town to Iowa for not one, but two weddings with the mrs...ugh. I will contact you when I'm back in town and maybe we can do a cleaning/shooting day.

[Mobat555]

Thanks for the info all (and Uber for posting). Has anyone used MILITEC (http://www.militec1.com/miva/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=militec1&Category_Code=1) ?

[UberTong]

Btw...is it a dick move to print all 232 pages of the M16 manual at work......na

[two shoes]

Btw...is it a dick move to print all 232 pages of the M16 manual at work......na

Double sided or single sided?

[UberTong]

Haha, I just printed chapter 3...single sided.

[two shoes]

Please Cam, Tell me you are not using a rifle round for home defense...


Oh Wait, you live on the other side of town, so I dont live within 6 houses of you.
[Eek3]

I had seen on one of the "shooting shows" where the 223 (5.56) frangible would only go through 3 sheets of dry wall, where all of the "pistol" calibers with HP went through close to 6... seemed the HPs packed and were mostly like ball ammo, where the 223 started to tumble immediately... Even buck shot went through more walls...

[Ronin13]

Sounds good to me... I'd love to shoot with you and show you the basics of cleaning (which I do one deep clean of any weapon after 500+ rounds just because I'm anal like that)...
Cameron, is that the wifey? I don't want to over step my bounds but does she have a sister? All the girls I've dated have either been nuts and hate guns, or nuts and want to steal my guns... [Help]
Ugh! I need a GF that wants to go shoot or learn to shoot w/me. BTW- those SBRs are sick, but I just don't have the patience to wait for the tax stamp crap to be done- I'm like a child with that stuff "I want it NOW!"

[two shoes]

Haha, I just printed chapter 3...single sided.

You sir, are AWESOME!

Single sided would make it easier to read....


Damn fine pics Cameron!!! Great looking AR!

[UberTong]

Sounds good to me... I'd love to shoot with you and show you the basics of cleaning (which I do one deep clean of any weapon after 500+ rounds just because I'm anal like that)...
Cameron, is that the wifey? I don't want to over step my bounds but does she have a sister? All the girls I've dated have either been nuts and hate guns, or nuts and want to steal my guns... [Help]
Ugh! I need a GF that wants to go shoot or learn to shoot w/me. BTW- those SBRs are sick, but I just don't have the patience to wait for the tax stamp crap to be done- I'm like a child with that stuff "I want it NOW!"

Deal Ronin- lets talk about it next week.

On a side note...my wife is a dynamite shot with my XD9 tactical. And when I brought home the AR, she goes "ooooh can't wait to shoot that". Then the other night she says, hey would it be cool if we got a revolver for the nightstand?

Take your clothes off babe, youre talkin dirty... [ROFL2]

[UberTong]

You sir, are AWESOME!

Single sided would make it easier to read....


Damn fine pics Cameron!!! Great looking AR!

Haha thanks broseidon, king of the broceans. Right back at ya.

[Ronin13]

Deal Ronin- lets talk about it next week.

On a side note...my wife is a dynamite shot with my XD9 tactical. And when I brought home the AR, she goes "ooooh can't wait to shoot that". Then the other night she says, hey would it be cool if we got a revolver for the nightstand?

Take your clothes off babe, youre talkin dirty... [ROFL2]

Cool... but I so hate you right now... I had a girl over a few months ago and she and I were doing what adults in bed do, afterward I opened the drawer to the nightstand to look at my watch (no alarm clock/radio in my bedroom) and there was my 1911 in all it's magnificent glory. She got very uneasy and decided then was a great time to go home. Haven't heard from her since. But it's cool, she wasn't that hot, nor that great in bed... can't be with a girl who isn't cool with guns or my scary obsession with them.

[clublights]

SBR's


the Only time a guy brags about who's is smaller......

[Byte Stryke]

I had seen on one of the "shooting shows" where the 223 (5.56) frangible would only go through 3 sheets of dry wall, where all of the "pistol" calibers with HP went through close to 6... seemed the HPs packed and were mostly like ball ammo, where the 223 started to tumble immediately... Even buck shot went through more walls...

How many did the pistol frangies go through?
I love it when the comparisons are between apples and pineapples.


Seriously though. I have been in my house and stray "home defense" .308s came streaming through my possessions.

Lawsuits ensued.
Criminal charges were later filed.
Food for thought.

[UberTong]

Cool... but I so hate you right now... I had a girl over a few months ago and she and I were doing what adults in bed do, afterward I opened the drawer to the nightstand to look at my watch (no alarm clock/radio in my bedroom) and there was my 1911 in all it's magnificent glory. She got very uneasy and decided then was a great time to go home. Haven't heard from her since. But it's cool, she wasn't that hot, nor that great in bed... can't be with a girl who isn't cool with guns or my scary obsession with them.

[ROFL1] gtfo!


SBR's


the Only time a guy brags about who's is smaller......

Good shit!

[BigMat]

How many did the pistol frangies go through?
I love it when the comparisons are between apples and pineapples.


Seriously though. I have been in my house and stray "home defense" .308s came streaming through my possessions.

Lawsuits ensued.
Criminal charges were later filed.
Food for thought.


Your problem is caliber, its living near people who miss!

I think this is the source. (http://www.theboxotruth.com/docs/bot1.htm)

The guys hobby is just great.



Oh, OP, sorry.

I rarely clean my ARs, but I use a bore snake frequently and tend to carry it with me.

[two shoes]

How many did the pistol frangies go through?
I love it when the comparisons are between apples and pineapples.


Seriously though. I have been in my house and stray "home defense" .308s came streaming through my possessions.

Lawsuits ensued.
Criminal charges were later filed.
Food for thought.

.308 for home defense may be slightly more than I would use... [Eek3]

The discussion was specifically for better "home defense" guns/calibers. Pistol HP rounds had packed solid with the first drywall sheet. They performed like ball ammo afterward, something like 5-6 sheets of drywall in a relatively straight line. I'll see if I can figure out the show it was on...

[two shoes]

How many did the pistol frangies go through?
I love it when the comparisons are between apples and pineapples.


Here is the stuff:

"Personal Defense TV" on the Outdoor channel...

Episode 13
Airs The Week Of: March 26, 2007
According to Clint Smith at Thunder Ranch, the rifle is a much better tool for personal defense. Join Tom as he and Clint cover the benefits and use of rifles, and address the myths of over penetration. Also this week, Dick Metcalf makes his case for why a laser sighting device is more than the single most important "Survival Tool," but also basic life insurance."

I haven't been able to find the video yet....

[AirbornePathogen]

Btw...is it a dick move to print all 232 pages of the M16 manual at work......na


Then I don't feel so bad for printing out the IDPA rule book at work. Only 57 pages...

[Graves]

How many did the pistol frangies go through?
I love it when the comparisons are between apples and pineapples.


Seriously though. I have been in my house and stray "home defense" .308s came streaming through my possessions.

Lawsuits ensued.
Criminal charges were later filed.
Food for thought.


You'd be surprised how similar the penetration characteristics are between your typical service calibers and a standard .223/556 load...especially when delivered via sbr.