Cleaning a Firearm
Most people would agree that maintaining your car is very important. Taking care of a car requires regular oil changes, getting things like brakes checked, etc. The purpose of getting those things checked is to make sure that everyone riding in that vehicle stays safe. A firearm is not much different.
Being a responsible firearm owner demands that you clean your firearm regularly. Cleaning your firearm could potentially save someone’s life. By properly taking apart and cleaning your firearm you could notice a part that needs to be replaced. If you not found that part before you shot it again something could have malfunctioned and you could have potentially hurt yourself or someone else.
You can purchase cleaning kits and any materials necessary from many firearm dealers. Be aware that some of the cleaning materials contain toxins. Read all the instructions carefully before you begin.
It will be important for you to clean your firearm somewhere that you can focus. You do not want to get distracted and make a mistake while cleaning your firearm.
- Unload – Be sure your firearm is unloaded.
- Remove Ammo – Remove any ammunition from the area.
- Follow Instructions – Be sure you follow all of the cleaning instructions listed in the owner’s manual. If you are unsure of an instruction your local firearms dealer would be a great resource. Firearms dealers are well versed in many different types of firearms.
- Ventilation – Because of the toxic chemicals in some of the cleaning materials it is important to be in an area that is well ventilated. You do not want to inhale any of the lead particles.
- Avoid Ingesting – It is important to wash your hands before you drink or eat anything after cleaning your firearm. You do not want to accidentally ingest any lead that may have ended up on your hands.
- Repairs – By checking your firearms regularly you will be able to notice right away if something is not right. If you think there is an issue take your firearm to the manufacturer of your firearm or to a licensed gunsmith. Either place will be able to tell you if something is wrong and they will be able to makes any necessary repairs, properly.
- Voids Warranty – Do not make any types of modifications to your firearm. Most modifications are illegal and will likely void any type of warranty.
To come back to the example at the beginning of the article, keeping your car properly maintained is important to keep you and any passengers safe. A firearm is no different. Taking care of your firearm is essential to keeping you and anyone around you safe. By keeping your firearm properly maintained you will also have a firearm that will last you many years. Many adults are able to pass on their firearm(s) to a son or daughter because they maintained their firearm properly.