Regular cleaning of your semi-automatic handgun is important for reliable functioning,
let me show you how I clean mine. This Glock Smith & Wesson and Colt have all been recently
fired and need to be cleaned. All that's needed are a few basic supplies. Keeping the muzzle
pointed in a safe direction and my finger off the trigger I remove the magazine and
check to make sure that the gun is unloaded. It's important to have the owner's manual for proper
disassembly. If one isn't available consult the manufacturer or you may find one online.
First, I remove the slide from the frame,
and recoil spring from the slide, then the barrel from the slide. I spray cleaning
solvent liberally on all the small parts to remove the loose carbon, then I use a shop
towel to wipe off any fouling that remains. Once a year, or after a lot of shooting,
I'll completely disassemble the slide but normally I don't. It's important to pay
close attention to the breech face, locking lugs, and slide rails. I cleaned the barrel
with a bronze brush and solvent making sure that all traces of fouling are removed from
the barrel and chamber as well as the locking lugs. Then I switch to a brass jag and push a
clean cotton patch through the bore using a new patch each time, once the patch comes out clean
a lightly oiled patch finishes up the barrel. The frame is next, solvent is used liberally to remove
the majority of the fouling, being careful as some solvents may harm grips. Any stubborn spots are
cleaned with a brush. I pay close attention to the slide rails feed ramp and the magazine well. Once
the frame and slide have been completely cleaned a light coat of oil is applied to the slide stop,
recoil spring guide, and recoil plug since they were degreased previously. Excess lubricant is
wiped off with a clean shop towel a small amount of grease is applied to the slide rail grooves
and lug recesses as well as the center rail as this surface cock the hammer with each firing.
The barrel is lubricated where it comes in contact with the bushing as well as the frame rails. one
part that is often overlooked is the magazine, I disassemble it by removing the follower,
spring, and if possible the floorplate. Then I spray solvent into the magazine
and use a soft brush and shop towel to clean the magazine and spring. The spring is oiled,
but I use it sparingly as an over oiled magazine can pick up dirt very easily.
I reassemble the magazine making sure the spring engages the follower correctly. After
the frame and slide are back together excess oil and grease are wiped off.