Each handgun will disassemble slightly differently, but the general components are the same.
 


Let’s review a quick clean of your handgun. A quick clean should only take about five minutes and can be done right at the range. The particular handgun we are cleaning today is the Sig P320 X5 Legion, but the process on most striker-fired handguns will be very similar.

Disclaimer: Make sure the cleaning area is free of ammunition and the firearm is unloaded.
 

What You Need


A quick clean does not require a lot of supplies, all you need is oil, a rag, and a brush.
 

The Process
 

Remove the slide of your handgun. Each handgun will disassemble slightly differently, but the components are generally the same.


* Remove the slide.
 

Wipe down the grip module, above, and run a cloth through the magwell. If the FCG has grime, use the brush to clean it up.


* Wipe down the grip module around the FCG, or fire control group, and run a cloth through the magwell. If the FCG has grime, use the brush to clean it up.
 

Remove the guide rod and spring. Then give them a wipe down.


* Remove the guide rod and spring. Then give them a wipe down – be careful when removing the guide rod, eye protection is recommended.

* Remove the barrel and run a bore snake or brush through it until the rifling appears clean.

* Take a brush to the slide to remove any carbon build-up and wipe away any visible debris.

* Lightly oil: Anything that moves should be lightly oiled, this includes the exterior of the barrel, guide rod, and rails in the slide.

* NOTE: Do not over oil. Oil attracts dirt, which will increase the wear on your gun and make it dirtier over time. In this case, more is not better.

* Reassemble.

* Wipe down the exterior with a lightly oiled cloth.

* Function test.

That's it!

You’ve now done a quick clean on your handgun. This is an easy habit to get into after every time shooting. Each handgun will disassemble slightly differently, but the components are generally the same. The objective of a quick clean is to make sure your handgun continues to run smoothly between deep cleans and to inspect it for wear regularly.

revolver barrel loading graphic

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