How To Clean Ar 15 * bigfinish.com

The AR-15 is a semi-automatic rifle that is popular for both civilian and military use. It is a reliable and accurate firearm, but like all guns, it requires regular cleaning and maintenance to function properly. Cleaning your AR-15 is not a difficult task, but it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure that you do not damage the firearm.

The first step in cleaning your AR-15 is to remove the magazine and clear the chamber. Once the firearm is unloaded, you can begin disassembling it. The upper and lower receivers are held together by two pins. Remove the rear pin first, then the front pin. Once the pins are removed, you can separate the upper and lower receivers. The bolt carrier group can now be removed from the upper receiver. To do this, pull back on the charging handle and lift the bolt carrier group out of the receiver.

With the firearm disassembled, you can now clean the individual components. The barrel, bolt carrier group, and upper and lower receivers should be cleaned with a good quality gun cleaner and a soft cloth. Be sure to remove all of the carbon and fouling from these components. The magazine can be cleaned with a magazine cleaning kit. Once all of the components have been cleaned, you can reassemble the firearm. To do this, simply reverse the steps that you took to disassemble it.

Essential Materials for AR-15 Cleaning

Cleaning your AR-15 regularly is crucial for proper functioning and optimal performance. To ensure a thorough cleaning, it’s essential to gather the appropriate materials beforehand.

Cleaning Kit

A comprehensive cleaning kit specifically designed for the AR-15 is highly recommended. These kits typically include:

Bore snake: A long, flexible cable with a brush or patch on one end for cleaning the barrel.
Cleaning rod: A metal or fiberglass rod used to guide the bore snake or patch through the barrel.
Patches: Small, absorbent squares of cloth used to clean the bore and remove fouling.
Lubricant: A high-quality gun lubricant for maintaining the gun’s components.
Brush set: Various brushes for cleaning the chamber, bolt carrier, and other components.
Screwdriver: A properly sized screwdriver for disassembling and reassembling the rifle.

Cleaning Solvents

Two types of cleaning solvents are commonly used for AR-15 cleaning:

Petroleum-based solvents: These solvents are effective at removing heavy fouling and carbon buildup. Examples include CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protector) and Hoppes No. 9.
Non-petroleum-based solvents: These solvents are less harsh and gentler on metal components. They are suitable for routine cleaning or removing light fouling. Examples include Shooter’s Choice FP-10 and Ballistol.

Other Materials

In addition to the cleaning kit and solvents, the following materials may also be helpful:

Dental floss: Useful for cleaning around the trigger assembly.
Q-tips: For cleaning small and hard-to-reach areas.
Cleaning rag: A soft, lint-free cloth for wiping down and drying the rifle.
Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from debris or cleaning chemicals.

Disassembling the Upper Receiver

To disassemble the upper receiver of your AR-15, follow these steps:

Lock the bolt carrier: Ensure the firearm is unloaded by removing the magazine. Pull the charging handle all the way to the rear and lock it into place.
Separate the upper and lower receiver: Use a pin punch to push out the rear takedown pin and separate the upper and lower receivers.
Remove the charging handle: Pull the charging handle slightly to the rear until it clears the upper receiver. Lift the charging handle up and out.
Remove the bolt carrier group: Pull the bolt carrier group fully to the rear and lift it out of the upper receiver.
Depress the forward assist button: Locate the forward assist button on the left side of the upper receiver and depress it with your thumb. This will move the cam pin out of the bolt carrier and allow you to separate the bolt carrier from the bolt.
Remove the firing pin and extractor: Rotate the bolt to expose the firing pin retaining pin. Push out the retaining pin and extract the firing pin and extractor.
Remove the gas tube: Depress the gas tube roll pin with a punch and slide the gas tube forward to remove it.
Remove the handguard: If applicable, remove any handguards by unscrewing or prying them off.
Remove the barrel nut: Use a barrel nut wrench to loosen the barrel nut and remove it.
Remove the barrel: Carefully slide the barrel out of the upper receiver.
Inspect and clean components: Inspect all components for wear or damage. Thoroughly clean the upper receiver, ensuring that all dirt and debris are removed.
Reassemble the upper receiver: Reverse the disassembly steps to reassemble the upper receiver, ensuring that all components are properly aligned and secured.

Removing the Bolt Carrier Group

To remove the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) from the firearm, follow these steps:

Ensure the firearm is unloaded and clear of any ammunition.
Pull back the Charging Handle and pull the Bolt Assembly rearward.

Lock the Bolt Assembly to the Rear

To lock the Bolt Assembly to the rear, use one of the following methods:

Method	Description
Hold-Open Device	If your firearm has a built-in hold-open device, insert it into the magazine well to hold the Bolt Assembly back.
Charging Handle Lock	Some charging handles have a built-in lock that engages the Bolt Assembly when pulled to the rear.
Manual Lock	If neither of the above options is available, manually lock the Bolt Assembly by inserting a cleaning rod or similar object into the ejection port and catching the Bolt Carrier on the inside of the upper receiver.

Cleaning the Bolt and Bolt Carrier

The bolt and bolt carrier are two of the most critical components of your AR-15, and they need to be kept clean to ensure proper function. Here are the steps on how to clean the bolt and bolt carrier:

1. Remove the Bolt and Bolt Carrier

To remove the bolt and bolt carrier, first, remove the upper receiver from the lower receiver. Then, pull back on the charging handle and lift the bolt and bolt carrier out of the upper receiver.

2. Disassemble the Bolt

To disassemble the bolt, first, remove the firing pin by pushing it out the back of the bolt. Then, remove the extractor by pushing it out to the side. Finally, remove the cam pin by pushing it out from the bottom of the bolt.

3. Clean the Bolt and Bolt Carrier

Use a cleaning solvent to clean the bolt and bolt carrier. Be sure to remove all dirt, debris, and carbon buildup. You can use a brush to help remove any stubborn dirt. Once the bolt and bolt carrier are clean, dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth.

4. Lubricate the Bolt and Bolt Carrier

Once the bolt and bolt carrier are clean and dry, it’s important to lubricate them to ensure proper function. Use a gun lubricant to lubricate the following areas:

Area	Amount of Lubricant
Bolt cam pin	1-2 drops
Extractor spring	1 drop
Firing pin	1 drop
Bolt carrier rails	A thin film

Be sure to wipe away any excess lubricant before reassembling the bolt and bolt carrier.

Cleaning the Lower Receiver

The lower receiver is the heart of the AR-15 and houses the trigger, hammer, and other critical components. Cleaning it properly is essential for maintaining the rifle’s reliability and accuracy.

Step 1: Remove the Magazine and Bolt Carrier Group (BCG)

Unload the rifle and remove the magazine. Pull the charging handle to the rear and unhook the BCG from the receiver.

Step 2: Use a Brush to Clean the Receiver

Insert a brush into the receiver through the ejection port. Use small, circular motions to clean the inside, removing any debris or fouling.

Step 3: Clean the Trigger and Hammer

Apply a small amount of CLP to a cotton swab and wipe down the trigger and hammer. Use a pointed tool, such as a dental pick, to remove any buildup or debris from the trigger mechanism.

Step 4: Clean the Magazine Well

Insert a small brush into the magazine well and clean any dirt or grit. Use a wet patch to wipe down the surface.

Step 5: Lubricate the Lower Receiver

Apply a thin layer of CLP to all moving parts, including the trigger, hammer, and safety selector.

Step 6: Detailed Cleaning of the Fire Control Group (FCG)

To deep-clean the FCG, you will need to disassemble it.

Component	Cleaning Method
Trigger	Use a small brush and pointed tool to remove any debris or buildup. Apply CLP and work the trigger to lubricate it.
Hammer	Use a brush to clean the face and sear of the hammer. Apply CLP and reassemble the hammer, ensuring it moves freely.
Disconnector	Use a pointed tool to remove any debris from the hook of the disconnector. Apply CLP and reassemble it.
Connector	Use a brush to clean the surface of the connector. Apply CLP and reassemble it, ensuring it moves smoothly.
Safety Selector	Use a cotton swab to clean the safety selector switch. Apply CLP and work the selector to lubricate it.

Lubricating the AR-15

Lubricating the AR-15 is an important part of maintaining its function and longevity. The following steps will guide you through the process:

1. Gather Necessary Supplies

You will need the following items:

AR-15 armorer’s wrench
Gun lube (CLP or equivalent)
Lint-free cloths
Cleaning rod
Bore brush

2. Remove the Upper and Lower Receivers

Using the armorer’s wrench, separate the upper and lower receivers.

3. Remove the Bolt Carrier Group

Pull back and rotate the charging handle to remove the bolt carrier group.

4. Lubricate the Bolt Carrier Group

Apply a drop of lube to the following areas of the bolt carrier group:

Area	Lubrication
Cam pin	1 drop
Extractor	1 drop
Firing pin	1 drop
Bolt	1 drop

5. Lubricate the Upper Receiver

Apply a drop of lube to the following areas of the upper receiver:

Area	Lubrication
Charging handle track	1 drop
Barrel extension	1 drop

6. Lubricate the Lower Receiver

Apply a drop of lube to the following areas of the lower receiver:

Area	Lubrication
Buffer spring	1 drop
Trigger	1 drop
Hammer	1 drop

7. Reassemble the AR-15

Slide the bolt carrier group back into the upper receiver.
Mate the upper and lower receivers.
Secure the receivers with the armorer’s wrench.
Check the function of the AR-15 by manipulating the controls.

Reassembling the AR-15

Once your AR-15 is cleaned, it’s time to reassemble it. Here’s how:

Step 1: Reinstall the Trigger

Align the trigger with its slot in the lower receiver and press it into place. The trigger should click into place.

Step 2: Insert the Hammer

Place the hammer in the lower receiver and align it with the trigger. Push it forward until it clicks into place.

Step 3: Install the Disconnector

Insert the disconnector into its slot in the lower receiver and align it with the trigger. Push it down until it clicks into place.

Step 4: Install the Safety Selector

Insert the safety selector into the lower receiver and align it with the selector hole. Rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place.

Step 5: Install the Magazine Release Button

Insert the magazine release button into the lower receiver and align it with the mag release hole. Push it in until it clicks into place.

Step 6: Install the Bolt Catch

Insert the bolt catch into its slot in the lower receiver and align it with the bolt catch pin. Push it in until it clicks into place.

Step 7: Install the Upper Receiver

Align the upper receiver with the lower receiver and slide it forward until the takedown pins line up. Push in the takedown pins to secure the upper and lower receivers.

Step 8: Install the Charging Handle and Bolt Carrier Assembly

Insert the charging handle into the charging handle slot in the upper receiver. Pull back on the charging handle and insert the bolt carrier assembly into the upper receiver. Push forward on the charging handle to chamber a round.

Additional Details for Step 8:

Step	Description
8a	Pull back on the charging handle until the bolt carrier assembly is fully to the rear.
8b	Align the bolt carrier assembly with the upper receiver and insert it into the receiver.
8c	Push forward on the charging handle until the bolt carrier assembly is fully forward and a round is chambered.

Step 9: Install the Handguard

Align the handguard with the upper receiver and slide it forward until it locks into place.

Step 10: Install the Stock

Align the stock with the buffer tube and slide it over the buffer tube. Tighten the stock screw to secure the stock.

Troubleshooting Common Cleaning Issues

9. Stuck Bolt or Carrier

If you encounter a stuck bolt or carrier during cleaning, there are a few possible reasons:

Carbon or Obstructions:

Excessive carbon buildup or other obstructions can prevent the bolt or carrier from moving freely. Use a cleaning rod or brush to remove any debris.

Damaged Parts:

Check for any damaged components, such as a sheared extractor or a bent firing pin. If any parts are damaged, replace them as needed.

Overtightening:

Ensure that the castle nut or other bolts are not overtightened. Adjust the tension until the bolt or carrier moves smoothly.

Magazines:

Incompatible or faulty magazines may cause interference with the bolt or carrier. Test with different magazines to identify any potential issues.

Bolt Catch:

Ensure that the bolt catch is fully disengaged. If the catch is not fully depressed, it can obstruct the bolt or carrier.

Troubleshooting Steps	Potential Causes
Remove carbon and obstructions	Carbon buildup or debris
Check for damaged parts	Sheared extractor or bent firing pin
Adjust tension on castle nut	Overtightening
Try different magazines	Magazine incompatibility or malfunctions
Check bolt catch engagement	Bolt catch obstructing bolt or carrier

Best Practices for Regular AR-15 Cleaning

1. Safety First

Make sure to unload the firearm, remove the magazine, and open the action before commencing any cleaning procedure.

2. Inspect Components

Examine all components for any obvious debris, dirt, or carbon buildup.

3. Field Strip

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to field strip the AR-15 into its major components.

4. Bore Cleaning

Use a bore brush and cleaning solvent to remove fouling from the barrel. Ensure to push the brush from the chamber end to the muzzle to avoid damaging the rifling.

5. Bolt and Carrier Cleaning

Disassemble the bolt and carrier and clean them with a brass brush or cotton swabs soaked in solvent.

6. Gas System Cleaning

Remove the gas tube and clean it with a pipe cleaner or soft cloth.

7. Lower Receiver Cleaning

Wipe down the lower receiver with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris.

8. Trigger Group Cleaning

Remove the trigger group and clean the trigger sear, hammer, and other parts with a soft brush or cotton swabs.

9. Stock and Forend Cleaning

Wipe down the stock and forend with a cleaning solution or damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.

10. Lubrication

Apply a lightweight lubricant specifically designed for firearms to all friction points, such as the bolt, carrier, and gas system. Use only a small amount and avoid over-lubricating.

Lubrication Guide

Component	Lubrication Point
Bolt Carrier	Rails, Extractor, Firing Pin Channel
Bolt	Locking Lugs, Cam Pin Groove
Gas Tube	Entire Interior Surface
Trigger Group	Pivot Pin, Disconnector, Trigger, Sear
Safety Selector	Shaft, Detent Plunger
Charging Handle	Latch, Shoulder

How to Clean an AR-15

The AR-15 is a popular semi-automatic rifle that is used for both recreational and self-defense purposes. It is a reliable and accurate firearm, but like all firearms, it requires regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure proper function.

Cleaning an AR-15 is not a difficult task, but it does require some basic knowledge of the firearm. If you are not familiar with the AR-15, it is recommended that you consult with a qualified gunsmith before attempting to clean it yourself.

To clean an AR-15, you will need the following supplies:

Cleaning rod
Bore brush
Patch jag
Patches
Cleaning solvent
Lubricating oil

Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin the cleaning process. The following steps will guide you through the process:

Unload the firearm and ensure that the chamber is clear.

Remove the upper receiver from the lower receiver.

Insert the cleaning rod into the bore from the breech end of the barrel.

Attach the bore brush to the cleaning rod and push it through the bore several times.

Attach the patch jag to the cleaning rod and push a patch through the bore.

Repeat steps 4 and 5 until the patches come out clean.

Lubricate the bore with a few drops of lubricating oil.

Reassemble the firearm.