Things To Do Before Gun Cleaning

If you own a gun, then you must clean it regularly. Let's talk about what you need to do before cleaning your gun.

Step 1: Choose a place to clean your gun

The first thing to do before cleaning the gun is to find a good place to sit down. Ideally, since it is difficult to find the gunpowder residue on your weapon, you should find a place with plenty of natural light so that you can see the gunpowder residue more clearly for better cleaning. It is best to find a large table so that you can have enough space for your guns and various parts that have been disassembled, and enough space for all gun cleaning tools. 

Next, you need to wear an apron and some cleaning gloves. Since many gun cleaning solvents contain toxic ingredients that can damage your skin, it is also difficult to remove old oil, gunpowder and other deposits from your skin and clothes. A good pair of disposable latex gloves can keep your hands clean and safe, and an apron can protect your clothes from splashes of black oil when you scrub your weapons.

Step 2: Make sure your gun is unloaded before cleaning

This is one of the most important things to do before cleaning your gun. Remember always unload your gun when not in use and double-check if your rifle is unloaded before cleaning. This may seem like a simple step, but it is often overlooked. One of the biggest culprits in shooting accidents due to failing to check whether your weapon has been unloaded. You may also need to remove the ammunition from a loose magazine because this part also needs to be thoroughly cleaned. And remember to place all of your ammunition in a separate workspace away from your cleaning area.

Step 3: Double check

We can never overemphasize the importance of gun safety. Even the best hunters and firearm experts can make mistakes. Checking again will not harm anyone, but failing to check again may lead to life-threatening.

Step 4: Determine the level of cleanliness

There are two different weapon cleaning strategies:

Routine cleaning should be done after every firearm use, even if you only fired off a dozen of non-corrosive shots at a shooting range. This form of cleaning is not quite as extensive and is nice and quick. And a thorough cleaning should be done after an extensive hunting trip if your weapon happens to get wet or dirty. It is also good to clean your weapon thoroughly if you have had it bottled up in a gun safe for a year or more.

After you finish these preparations, you can start cleaning your guns.