How to Maintain an M16 Rifle

By eHow Hobbies, Games & Toys Editor

Rate: (8 Ratings)

The M16 assault rifle has been in constant use with U.S. Armed Forces since the early sixties. Both loved and hated, this precise weapon can be your best friend or worst enemy. If you want your M16 to treat you right then you have to treat her right. Giving your rifle a quick field cleaning at least once a day is a good place to start for the proper care and maintenance of your M16. Read on to learn how to maintain an M16 rifle.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

M16 cleaning kit
Lubricant

Step1

Ensure the weapon is clear, the bolt is forward and the gun is on safe. Wipe off the outside of the weapon with a dry rag. Get all of the dust, dirt and oil off of the weapon.

Step2

Disassemble and clean the rifle by removing the pins that hold the upper and lower receiver and pulling the charging handle out.

Step3

Clean the upper receiver with a rag. Use cotton swabs to clean the trigger mechanism.

Step4

Clean the bolt by removing the retaining pin from the side of the bolt. Let the firing and cam pins slide out then slide the bolt of the bolt carrier. Clean all of the carbon and dirt off of these parts with a cotton swab.

Step5

Attach a clean barrel swab to a barrel rod. Scrub the barrel from the breech to the muzzle, repeat until the swab comes out clean.

Step6

Apply a thin coat of CLP or other approved M16 lubricant on all metal parts of the rifle as you assemble it.

Tips & Warnings

To clear an M16, point the weapon in a safe direction and pull the charging handle to the rear. With the handle back, look into the chamber and ensure that there are no rounds or debris in the breech. Ride the bolt forward and place the weapon on safe.
A thin coat of oil on the outside of the weapon prevents rust.
Not only do rust spots look unsightly they create potential particles that could go inside the weapon and cause jams.
The bolt has two places it sits within the bolt carrier. Be sure it is in the out position when you try to replace it in the upper receiver.
Do not apply petroleum-based lubricants to the plastic parts of the weapon.
Do not lubricate the inside of the barrel unless advised to by a gunsmith familiar with your climate.
Don't force parts. The M16 is a precision instrument and can be damaged by a lot of unnecessary banging around. Be gentle.