Mistakes in Gun Cleaning

One of the less exciting aspects of gun ownership is the maintenance of the gun. All guns must be cleaned periodically, even those that are not used very often. There are kits available that contain all the supplies necessary for cleaning, but they must be used properly and with care. Cleaning a gun may seem like a simple task, but mistakes can and do happen. Unfortunately, accidents may happen as a result of those gun cleaning mistakes.

Causes

Gun cleaning mistakes happen when a gun owner is careless. Gun cleaning mistakes can happen when the gun owner does not take the time to learn how to properly clean his gun. Gun cleaning mistakes can happen if the gun owner tries to use the incorrect tools to clean his gun.

Types

The most dangerous type of gun cleaning mistake is forgetting to check if the gun is loaded before attempting to clean it. Another gun cleaning mistake is not realizing that a gun could be permanently damaged if the wrong size gun cleaning kit is used, as well as using the wrong cleaning solutions. Using too much lubricant is also a common mistake. Another gun cleaning mistake is not using care with the bore cleaning solvent, which can accidentally become splashed on the skin or in the eyes.

Effects

Gun cleaning mistakes can cause accidents and even fatalities. According to the New York Times, a soldier was killed as a result of another soldier forgetting to check if his gun was loaded before cleaning it. If the wrong bore brush is used to clean a gun, the bore brush could become lodged in the barrel. Using a different bore solvent than what is recommended could permanently etch the barrel and render the gun useless. If too much lubricant is used in the cleaning process, it could make firing the gun a risky proposition. If the lubricant is not wiped off the gun completely, it can make the gun slippery and dangerous. After bore cleaner has been used in the barrel, it will contain lead. Used bore cleaning solution on the skin can result in lead exposure

Prevention/Solution

To prevent gun cleaning mistakes, learn how to properly clean your gun. Read the instructions that come with a gun cleaning kit. Always check to make sure that your gun is not loaded before beginning the cleaning process. Use only the proper size kit, with the recommended cleaning agents. Never substitute a different sized bore brush. Exercise care when using the bore cleaning agents and avoid skin contact.

Option

If you are unfamiliar with the process of cleaning guns, take your gun to a professional to have it cleaned and avoid the possibility of making a gun cleaning mistake.

References

• Anger Joins Grief
• Gun Cleaning
• Firearm Safety and Cleaning Tips