Theo Nash
Gun owners have differing opinions on the best way to clean a firearm. Some use common gun solvent, carburetor cleaner, non-chlorinated brake cleaner, or CLP. Others use hot water and dish soap, or even just soap and water. Some gun owners use isopropyl alcohol, which is an excellent degreaser, but it's important to note that it can cause rust if the areas cleaned are not lubricated afterward. Some sources recommend using 91% isopropyl alcohol, as 70% can leave some water behind when it evaporates, which can lead to rust. Others recommend denatured alcohol for cleaning pistols, as it works well on metals.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Alcohol | Isopropyl Alcohol, Rubbing Alcohol, Denatured Alcohol |
| Percentage of Alcohol | 70%, 91%, 99% |
| Advantages | Cheap, leaves little to no residue, evaporates quickly |
| Disadvantages | May damage blued finishes, may not remove tough grease |
| Post-Cleaning Steps | Apply oil to prevent rust, dry thoroughly |
| Alternative Methods | Soap and hot water, ultrasonic cleaner, non-chlorinated brake cleaner |
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What You'll Learn
Use 91% isopropyl alcohol to prevent water residue
When cleaning a gun, it is important to use the right products to ensure the weapon is not damaged and continues to function properly. While 70% isopropyl alcohol is commonly used to clean guns, it can leave water residue behind when it evaporates. This is because the remaining 30% of the solution is water.
To prevent water residue, it is recommended to use 91% isopropyl alcohol. This higher concentration will not leave water residue and will do a better job of degreasing. While it is possible that a small amount of water will remain even after using 91% isopropyl alcohol, this concentration is still significantly less likely to leave water residue than 70% alcohol.
In addition to its effectiveness as a degreaser, 91% isopropyl alcohol is also a good option for cleaning guns because it is cheap and widely available. It can be purchased at many stores, including auto shops and online.
When using isopropyl alcohol to clean a gun, it is important to follow certain precautions. Firstly, it is crucial to ensure that the gun is completely dry before applying any lubricants or oils. This is because isopropyl alcohol strips away all oil and leaves the metal vulnerable to the elements. Therefore, it is recommended to apply a thin coat of oil or lubricant to the gun after cleaning to protect it from rust and corrosion. Additionally, it is advised to be cautious when using isopropyl alcohol on certain finishes, as it can potentially damage some gun finishes, such as blued finishes.
Overall, 91% isopropyl alcohol is a recommended option for cleaning guns as it effectively removes grease and grime while leaving minimal water residue. However, proper precautions, such as drying the gun thoroughly and applying oil or lubricant after cleaning, are essential to maintain the condition and functionality of the weapon.
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Degrease with alcohol, then apply oil to prevent rust
When it comes to cleaning a dirty pistol, one method that is often discussed is the use of an alcohol bath. This process involves soaking the metal components of the pistol in a bath of alcohol, which can help to remove grease, grime, and other contaminants.
One of the key advantages of using alcohol for this purpose is its degreasing property. Alcohol is amphiphilic, meaning it can bind with both polar and non-polar molecules. Grease, for example, is made up of long fatty acid chains, and alcohol can dissolve these chains by getting in between the fatty molecules. This action breaks down the grease, allowing it to be washed away.
While isopropyl alcohol is commonly used for cleaning, it is important to note that it is typically mixed with distilled water, with concentrations ranging from 60% to 90% isopropyl alcohol. In the context of cleaning a pistol, a higher concentration of alcohol is generally preferred, as it evaporates faster and leaves less water residue. Therefore, 91% or 99% isopropyl alcohol is recommended over 70% for more effective degreasing.
After degreasing with alcohol, it is crucial to apply a coat of oil to the pistol. Alcohol strips away existing oil from metal surfaces, leaving them vulnerable to rust if not properly protected. By applying oil immediately after cleaning with alcohol, you can prevent rust from forming and ensure the longevity of your pistol.
It is worth mentioning that while alcohol is an effective cleaner, it may not be the best option for removing heavy grease buildup. In such cases, alternative solvents like carburetor cleaner or non-chlorinated brake cleaner might be more suitable. Additionally, always exercise caution when cleaning firearms, ensuring that they are unloaded and following all safety protocols.
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Clean the breech face, extractor, and slide internals
To clean the breech face, extractor, and slide internals of a pistol, you can use a variety of tools and solvents. It is important to keep these areas of your pistol clean to ensure reliable feeding and extraction.
Firstly, you can use a brush to scrub the breech face. Hold the slide with the muzzle facing down to prevent solvent and debris from running into the internals of the slide. You can use a toothbrush, a brass or bronze brush, or a machinist's brush, also known as a wire toothbrush. These brushes come in different materials, including steel, brass, and nylon, depending on how delicate you need to be. Use the large end of the brush for the breech face and the small end for the corners and the extractor hook.
You can also use solvents to clean the breech face. Some people recommend using a small amount of solvent on the brush, while others prefer to soak the slide in a jar of solvent. Common solvents include Hoppes, CLP, or OTIS cleaner. If you are using a solvent, be sure to wipe the breech face with a clean patch afterward. You can also use a plastic scraper or dental pick to remove stubborn carbon or debris.
Additionally, it is important to clean the area behind the extractor hook. This can be done with a pick or by "flossing" it with a patch. Make sure this area is clean and dry to prevent failures to feed and extract.
Finally, remember to lubricate and reassemble your pistol after cleaning. Use a small amount of oil to ensure proper function and prevent rust.
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Soak metal components overnight in a large tub
Soaking metal components overnight in a large tub is a popular method for cleaning guns. It is important to note that the type of solvent used for soaking is crucial, as some solvents may damage certain finishes on guns.
One recommended solvent for soaking metal components is mineral spirits, which can be purchased from a hardware store. It is an effective and cheap option for cleaning old military rifles packed in cosmoline. It is also odourless and non-flammable, making it a safe choice for indoor use. However, it is advised to use caution when soaking gun parts in carburetor cleaners, as they can etch some metals if left to soak.
Another option is to use a mixture of equal parts Dexron II or III, kerosene, mineral spirits, and acetone, commonly known as "Ed's Red." This solution is effective for soaking and scrubbing internal gun parts, removing plastic and other types of buildup.
Some gun owners prefer to use motor oil for soaking their metal components. This method involves hanging large pieces from coat hangers inside a lidded bucket filled with motor oil and allowing them to soak for a couple of hours. After soaking, the parts are pulled out, hung on a rack to drip dry, and then wiped clean. It is important to replace the oil every couple of years to prevent residue buildup.
When using isopropyl alcohol for soaking, it is recommended to use 91% alcohol instead of 70% as it evaporates faster and leaves less water behind, making it more effective at degreasing. Additionally, it is important to note that isopropyl alcohol is not suitable for cleaning greasy gunk and may damage blued finishes on guns. Always apply oil after cleaning with alcohol to prevent rusting.
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Avoid 'rubbing alcohol' due to its oily residue
When it comes to cleaning a firearm like a pistol, one of the important considerations is the type of residue left behind by the cleaning agent. While isopropyl alcohol is often used for cleaning guns, it's important to note that not all types of alcohol are suitable for this purpose.
Rubbing alcohol, in particular, should be avoided due to its tendency to leave behind an oily residue. This residue can interfere with the proper functioning of the firearm and attract dirt and debris, leading to potential malfunctions. In addition, the oily residue can be challenging to remove, requiring additional cleaning steps and products.
Furthermore, rubbing alcohol may not be effective in removing certain types of buildup, especially greasy gunk. Its effectiveness as a solvent depends on the type of residue on the gun. While it can be useful for removing water-soluble substances, it may struggle with lipid-based or greasy residues. In such cases, alternative cleaning solutions, such as carburetor cleaner or non-chlorinated brake cleaner, are recommended for more effective results.
To ensure the safe and efficient cleaning of a pistol, it is advisable to opt for cleaning products specifically designed for firearms. These products are formulated to effectively remove various types of buildup without leaving behind any harmful or undesirable residues. Purpose-made cleaners are readily available and affordable, making them a more reliable choice than rubbing alcohol.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the use of rubbing alcohol may not be suitable for all types of pistols. Some firearms, such as Glocks and Sigs, may have specific metal treatments or finishes that can be damaged by rubbing alcohol. It is always recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or seek advice from experts before using any cleaning agent that could potentially harm the firearm's finish or functionality.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, isopropyl alcohol can be used to clean pistols. It is an excellent degreaser and will not harm metal or bluing. However, it will eat some paints depending on how strong the alcohol is.
You can soak metal components overnight in a tub of isopropyl alcohol. Alternatively, you can use a toothbrush to scrub your pistol with isopropyl alcohol. After cleaning, make sure to apply oil to prevent rust.
It is recommended to use 91% isopropyl alcohol as it evaporates quickly and does a better job of degreasing than 70% isopropyl alcohol.
Yes, you can use soap and hot water to clean your pistol. You can also use other solvents such as carburetor cleaner, non-chlorinated brake cleaner, or CLP.
