A properly maintained firearm is an absolute must if you carry concealed. Failure to clean and lubricate your firearm could result in a firing malfunction when you need your gun to protect yourself from an attacker. Malfunctions and damage caused by a dirty gun are avoidable and unacceptable with proper maintenance.
You should follow a strict cleaning schedule for your concealed carry firearm. For example, clean after a range session, store it clean, and inspect your firearm regularly for any dirt buildup and proper lubrication. Just minutes of your day could be the difference between a malfunction and saving your life.
Review your gun’s owner’s manual in its entirety before cleaning. The manufacturer should provide specific tips on how to disassemble the gun correctly and specific locations that need to be lubricated. If you have misplaced the manual, check the manufacturer’s website for a digital copy before cleaning. Once you are familiar with the manual’s cleaning instructions, gather the necessary tools and be sure to have a large, clear, well-ventilated work area prior to disassembly.
After you work area is prepared, make sure the gun is not loaded, keeping it pointed in a safe direction with your finger off the trigger. Make certain there is no ammunition in your cleaning area, as cleaning solvents and lubricants can damage ammunition.
The layer of debris left in the barrel of your gun can significantly decrease your accuracy, as well as corrode the rifling. Be sure to clean the barrel as thoroughly as possible. You will likely need to make several passes with a bore brush and solvent to remove all debris. After scrubbing with the brush, run several patch holders through until they come through clean. Visually check for debris, then add a little gun oil or lubricant to the patch and run it through the bore to prevent moisture from corroding the rifling.
Using a different brush, begin cleaning the other parts of your gun. Don’t be afraid to use solvent, but your gun doesn’t need to be dripping wet, either. As with the barrel, wipe over your gun until your cloth or swab comes back clean. Once all grime is removed, lubricate all the necessary pieces specified in your owner’s manual. Cycle the gun’s action a few times to spread lubrication across all the moving parts.
After your gun is put back together, use a little gun oil or metal preservative on a clean rag and wipe down the outside of the gun to protect the finish from moisture. Clean up your work area, put all the tools, solvents, and lubricants away, and be sure to wash your hands and forearms with cool water and soap to complete the cleaning process.
