How to Clean a Shotgun

Shotgun on a bench with a bore cleaning snake and other firearm cleaning supplies

Cleaning your firearms is an important step to take for any avid shooters collection. Cleaning your firearm is a great way to ensure that your firearms continue firing as if it was the day you first got them, and will also ensure rust, corrosion and other nasties. In this article, we will discuss how to properly clean your shotgun so that you can avoid this as well as the embarrassment of bringing dirty gear at the range.

Why Properly Cleaning a Shotgun is Important

Properly cleaning your shotgun is vital if you want to make sure you're getting the best performance out of your firearm. A clean shotgun not only performs better but also looks much cleaner and nicer and is a sign of respect to your firearm and fellow shooters. Removing debris and fouling reduces the risk of misfires or other mechanical issues that could compromise your shots on the range or in the field. 

Necessary Tools and Materials

To clean your shotgun, you'll need a cleaning rod with attachments like brushes and patches to remove fouling from the barrel. A bore snake can also be handy for quick cleanings in between shooting sessions. These are available to purchase at Shooters Mart.

Invest in a quality gun oil or solvent to break down any built up residue on your shotgun parts. A microfiber cloth is great for wiping down surfaces without leaving lint behind. Don't forget a toothbrush or small nylon brush to reach those tight spaces where dirt can be hard to remove.

A cleaning mat will protect your workspace from spills and scratches on your shotgun while giving you a soft surface to disassemble it. And of course, keeping some gloves on hand will help to protect yourself from harsh chemicals during the cleaning process.

Having these tools and materials ready will make the task of cleaning your shotgun much easier and more effective in maintaining its performance over time. The easiest way to get all of the necessary tools however is through purchasing a shotgun cleaning kit. These cleaning kits usually contain all the necessary items you need to clean your shotgun and can either be made for specific gauges or as universal shotgun cleaning kits. 

Guide to Cleaning a Shotgun

The first step in cleaning your shotgun is always safety, make sure the gun is unloaded before starting the cleaning process. Disassemble your shotgun according to the manufacturer's instructions, paying close attention to each component.

Next, gather your necessary tools and materials such as a shotgun cleaning kit which should contain all of your solvent, lubricant, bore snake or rod, patches, and brushes. Start by wiping down all parts with a clean cloth before applying solvent to remove any built up residue inside the barrel and action. Use a brush or bore snake to scrub out any stubborn debris, particularly inside the barrel. After you have completed this, use the cleaning patch and attach it to the threaded rod included in your shotgun cleaning kit. Make passes through the barrel, removing all of the loose debris and solvent. Repeat this step until the patches come out completely clean and the barrel looks clean on the inside. 

Once clean, apply lubricant sparingly on moving parts like the bolt and action bars for smooth operation. Pay particular attention to applying the lubricant on moving parts which can be spotted by shiny bits of metal that are revealed through friction scraping off the surface coating.

It's also a good idea to add some lubrication on the inside. Do this by dabbing a clean cloth patch into some gun oil and running it through the barrel a couple of times. Once complete, resemble your shotgun in the reverse order of disassembly and you will have finished properly cleaning your shotgun.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Cleaning a Shotgun

One common mistake to avoid when cleaning a shotgun is using the wrong type of cleaning solvent. Using a solvent that is not designed for firearms can damage the finish or even corrode the metal components of your shotgun.

Another mistake is neglecting to properly lubricate the moving parts of the shotgun after cleaning. Failing to apply lubricant can cause increased friction, leading to wear and tear on critical components over time.

It's important not to over clean your shotgun as well. Cleaning it too frequently or excessively can actually strip away necessary oils and protective coatings, potentially causing more harm than good in the long run. Normally a good time frame to clean your shotgun is once every 6 months, potentially more often depending on how frequently you use it. 

Be cautious when disassembling your shotgun for cleaning. Improperly taking apart or reassembling your firearm can result in malfunctions or safety hazards during use. Be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines carefully and double check everything is put back together correctly.

Keep your shotgun firing accurately and properly for years to come by giving it the cleaning it needs. We recommend cleaning your shotgun once every 6 months to 1 year depending on your usage. Shooters Mart are Australia's number one supplier for firearm accessories and supplies, visit our store today and find the best shotgun cleaning kit for your shotgun.