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Dirty or Clean barrel when put up?

Tazman

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Jun 18, 2004
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I read a lot of different threads on barrel cleaning and care but here is my question. If I take a clean gun out and shoot it for lets say 10-20 rounds and bring it home, I usually just wipe it down and put it in the safe. I don't see the need to clean it since the cold bore shot seems to have less deviation when dirty. My rifles are stored in the safe in the climate controlled house.

I know some people are thinking...why the hell get it out of your only putting 10 rounds through it? Answer; I was probably on my way to do something else and took a few minutes to stop by the range!!Lol
 
Re: Dirty or Clean barrel when put up?

I guess it depends if it is a Chrome or Stainless barrel, and how long it is going to be stored before you use it again.
The longest my rifles go between shots is a few weeks, and are stainless steel.
In the case mentioned above, I would run a dry patch through it to knock down the big stuff and put her back in the heated safe.
I have run tests on my clean barrel vs slight dirty barrel and it is very close, every rifle will be different.
SScott
 
Re: Dirty or Clean barrel when put up?

some barrels .....will only come into their own after they get fouled, usually in less than 20 rounds

moly users depend on consistency, and are rewarded with such.

mostly some housekeeping is good to keep the carbon in check.
 
Re: Dirty or Clean barrel when put up?

My 308 has 1250 since last clean, my 260 shoots like shit after 150, all I can say is your weapon will tell you when its time to clean not the internet.
 
Re: Dirty or Clean barrel when put up?

Accuracy is only one of the things to consider. I have a bore scope so I keep an eye on throat errosion on my rifles since the 338AX and the 243AI are hot loads and I have never seen signs of rust in one of my rifles even after sitting in the safe for 6 months at a time. Even running a patch with oil down the barrel and then running a few patches before shooting again, cleans the bore to a certain degree.

As stated...I agree that each rifle has a unique threshold that defines deminished accuracy but after 10-20 rounds on a rifle that's broke in and has a stainless barrel, I can't see any reason to clean the bore. I suppose each rifle barrel material will be a little different but even my 788 collection has never shown any signs of issues from not cleaning. I have always been a fan of oiling after cleaning if the rifle..or any gun is going to sit for a extended period.
 
Re: Dirty or Clean barrel when put up?

I haven't cleaned my GAP Crusader until yesterday after 400 rounds. It was still shooting good but it had shot better. I never use a brush. Just foam with no ammonia, 45 minutes, and push some patches threw it. As soon as I am done I take it outside and shoot it a few times. works like a charm.