Rifle cleaning,not barrel)

[Benjerman08]

I have been into long range shooting for about 2 years now. I know what works in my rifle barrel as far as cleaning products, rounds before cleaning etc. What I have not read much about is cleaning the rest of the rifle. Here in Wyoming, one is always fighting wind which puts dirt, dust and occasionally small gravel in the air. Combine this with oil, grease and burned powder and it is clear that the bolt, bolt face and receiver will need cleaned at least occasionally. Anyone have suggestions on what products and methods are good for this? Ok to spray bolt, receiver with gun scrub prior to barrel cleaning? Any ideas on greasing the bolt? Thanks in advance to all. TF

 

[rogn]

As I once owned an automotive shop we tend to do what we know best. So I do now as I did in the old days and strip the rifle down. No optics! Using an air powered siphon gun I blast every thing metal with a solvent. Laquer thinner was a favorite since it dries quickly and doesnt react. Plenty of open space and ventilation for this due to flammabilty. Aerosol parts or electric cleaner is a better substitute. Then drying thoroughly and blowing out crevises with compressed air. I like Shooters Choice, Boretech or Superlube greases. If you look at your bolt you can see contact areas and these are where I would apply a thin layer of one the mentioned lubes. These are usualy the area behind the locking lugs and in front of the bolt handle. Also grease the lugs and cocking ramp. To do this thoroughly its best to strip the bolt and solvent clean it too. Ive been impressed with Mobil-1 used in minimal layers such as the lightest coating for the firing pin and spring.

 

[FeMan]

I use Frog Lube for all my external cleaning as well as the bolt. Wipe on liberally and wipe off. It seem to do a really good job at cleaning all the dirt, powder and oil residue and is water-based so it doesn't leave an oily film. The only place I grease the bolt is the back of the lugs. I run the rest "dry" to minimize the collection of grit.

 

[MislMan]

Thread from 2009!

 

[cw308]

In your area with the conditions you listed I would spray my bolt with Ballistol and spray on a patch to clean receiver , raceways and locking lug channel . heavy oil and grease could create more of a problem . Using Ballistol and wiping he excess off leaves a polished feel on the metal. After shooting I run a few patches through the barrel to remove most of the fouling until I get home , then all I need is the old faithful #9

Chris

 

[Lone Hunter]

Thread from 2009!

LOL!!! He sure didn't get any answers in 2009. Hope he got it figured out.