How to Clean a Black Powder Firearm

It is necessary to clean a black powder muzzle loading firearm shortly after shooting. This prevents corrosion from damaging the bore or any of the other vital parts. There are quite a few methods available for cleaning a black powder muzzle loading rifle. The method described here uses both water and solvent. It works well.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Remove any cap or primer first, and then check that the weapon is unloaded. Remove the bore and the nipple. Also, remove the cleanout screw (some firearms don't have a cleanout screw). The lock can be removed at this time, if necessary. When the muzzle loader is disassembled and safe, it is ready to be cleaned.
2. Flush the bore with a cool water rinse followed by a hot water rinse. Next, scrub the bore with a solvent soaked brass brush. Run a cleaning patch soaked with solvent down the bore. This may require several applications. Clean the cleanout screw hole, the nipple and nipple seat with a pipe cleaner that has been soaked in solvent. Dry the bore with a cleaning patch. Make sure the final patch comes out of the barrel clean. Finally, apply a light coat of gun oil, or any other rust inhibitor, to the bore. This acts as a preservative.
3. Wipe dirt and debris from crevices with a small brush and a light application of solvent. Sop up excess solvent anywhere on the firearm with a soft clean cloth and apply a light coat of gun oil to the metal parts. Use an appropriate wax or oil to treat the stock. Lastly, polish the brass and reassemble the weapon.