What's The Best Way To Clean A Barrel?

by
posted on May 9, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
diy2015_fs.jpg

Having been to a number of firearm manufacturing facilities in which barrels are made, I have had occasion to ask, "What's the best way to clean a barrel?' How frequently should a barrel be cleaned? And what kinds of rods, brushes, jags and patches work best? Answers from manufacturers, custom barrel makers and high-volume shooters were as different as the people who gave them. So, is there a right way or wrong way to clean a barrel? If the former, what are the specific techniques involved? What should you see inside a "good" barrel when using a bore scope? What are your experiences?

Latest

Ithaca Model 66  Super Single Shotgun
Ithaca Model 66  Super Single Shotgun

I Have This Old Gun: Ithaca Model 66 Super Single Shotgun

There was a time when a lever-action, single-shot scattergun was all the rage. Today, it still has some value and practical utility.

Cold-Weather Carry: 5 Great Items for Winter CCW

Don’t let the cold stop you from being prepared should things get hot.

Sighted Fire vs. Point-Shooting

A long-standing argument among handgunners revolves around the concept of sighted fire versus point-shooting. A more productive approach is to understand the problem each is trying to solve.

Derya Expands TM22 Family with Timekeeper & Pump Models

Derya continues the expansion of its rimfire line with two new models for 2026, an update of the original semi-auto TM22 and a new pump-action version.

Gun of the Week: Taurus RPC

The Taurus RPC is a welcome addition to the growing marketplace of PDWs, or personal defense weapons, a concept that pairs pistol-caliber cartridges with larger-format firearms.

The Armed Citizen® Nov. 13, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.