One of the most common causes of rifle problems we see isn’t a faulty part—it’s neglect. Infrequent or improper cleaning can lead to carbon and fouling buildup in the chamber and bore, which can rob your rifle of accuracy or even render it inoperable.
We often see shooters fire hundreds of rounds before giving their barrel the attention it needs. The truth is, your barrel’s performance—and lifespan—depend on regular, proper maintenance. Here’s a proven starting regimen to help you get the most out of your rifle:
Initial Break-In
- Start fresh: Before the first shot, run a few patches wet with Wipe-Out Patch-Out through the bore to ensure it’s perfectly clean.
- Use quality tools: A one-piece cleaning rod, bore guide, and correctly sized jag make a big difference.
Early Cleaning Intervals
- Fire no more than 20 rounds, then clean thoroughly with Wipe-Out Patch-Out.
- Fire up to 50 rounds, then clean thoroughly again.
Ongoing Maintenance
After these early intervals, let your rifle’s performance guide your cleaning schedule. Track your groups, note when accuracy starts to fade, and clean before it reaches that point.
Pro Tip: Keep a barrel log. Recording round counts, cleaning dates, and performance will help you pinpoint the sweet spot for your specific barrel and ensure it stays consistent for years to come.
