How to Clean a Semi Automatic Handgun

Owning a semiautomatic handgun is a big responsibility. All bullets must be removed prior to storing and placed in a separate area. It is equally important to clean the gun thoroughly before storing and after it has been used. This keeps the cylinder clean and clear of any debris, so that the bullet will not backfire or miss the target.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gun-cleaning kit
• Clean rags

Steps to Insure a Clean Semi Automatic Hand Gun

1. 
   Gun Case

   Put the gun case on a table and remove the gun and all parts. Before doing anything else, open the gun chamber to make sure there are no bullets inside. Do this each time, even if you ''know'' you have emptied it. It is best not to ''assume'' it is unloaded until you see it with your own eyes.

2. 
   Gun and parts

   Disassemble a new gun by reading the instructions. Since there are a variety of semiautomatics, there are many ways to disassemble them.

3. 
   Cleaning kit

   Place the cleaning kit a table. Dipping the toothbrush into the solution, scrub the inside of the barrel, the frame and all internal areas. Use a rag to clean away any loosened dirt that is removed.

4. Select the correct end of the rod tool that came with the cleaning kit and attach one of the cleaning patches to it. Soak the patch with the cleaning fluid by pushing it into the barrel until it comes out the other end. Take off the patch and throw it away, wipe the rod with the rag, and insert a new clean patch. Repeat this process about three times, until you insert a dry patch that finally comes out clean.

5. Pour some of the ''oil'' solution on a clean patch and insert into and through the gun barrel. Finish by applying a small bit of oil to all moving parts of the semiautomatic. Reassemble and check to make sure it is totally clean and its parts are working properly.

6. 
   Bullets

   Put the gun back into its locked case. Keep the bullets separate so that children are not able to load the gun and accidentally shoot someone.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean an exceptionally filthy barrel by allowing the cleaning fluid to remain inside for a few minutes the first time until you push it through. This will loosen any stuck-on dirt.
• Every time you open the gun case to use the gun, even if you have just cleaned it, check for bullets.
• The proper way of handing a gun to someone is to first open the barrel to reveal empty chambers--and, with an outstretched hand, hand over the gun.

Resources

• Clean a Semi Automatic
• Video Clean a Semi Automatic gun
• Further information on cleaning