As a responsible gun owner, you must perform regular maintenance of your firearms. Cleaning is an essential aspect of this maintenance, as it ensures proper function and safety. Here are a few general cleaning tips to get you started. You can also check your manufacturer's handbook for more specific guidance. 

3 Tips When Cleaning a Gun

1. Make Sure the Gun Is Completely Unloaded

Never assume that a firearm is unloaded, or that having the safety on is sufficient to prevent an accident. Eject the magazine and verify that there's not a round inside the chamber. Perform these actions while the gun is pointed away from you and anyone else present. Once you're completely sure that the gun is unloaded, you can move to the next step. 

2. Clean the Interior of the Weapon

Deep cleaning requires disassembly of the weapon, which can vary depending on what type of firearm you have. Use a bore brush to dust the inside the barrel and chamber before adding a cleaning solution. Let the solution sit for about 15 minutes before scrubbing with the brush. Once the interior is clean, you can wipe down the exterior components to remove dirt and grime. You'll also need to clean the action using a special solvent before adding a precise amount of lubrication to all moving parts. 

3. Reassemble Parts and Check Function

Once the weapon is completely reassembled, be sure to assess it before firing. Check all moving components for proper functionality. Make sure the safety is still operational and that the magazine can be inserted as usual. Even seasoned gun owners can make errors during reassembly, so functionality checks are crucial for your peace of mind. 

When you have questions about proper gun maintenance, the staff at Shooter's Firearms & Indoor Range has the answers you're looking for. In addition to their extensive inventory of firearms, they also provide an expansive shooting range to hone your skills. They even hold competitions where you can test your mettle against other firearms enthusiasts in Columbia, IL. Visit them online for more gun cleaning tips, or call (618) 281-6393 for more information.