[6Gunslinger]

After my range trip today I realized that I knew nothing about cleaning pistols so I started looking up stuff on the internet and it started to make me think about how I clean my revolvers too. I use the typical rod and bronze brush, mop, and patches (with slotted tip) but I never paid much attention to the order, how I insert the brush, from which end of the barrel, how to properly attach the patch to the rod, etc. and it started to make me worry if I'm doing any damage to my guns. It seems impossible that the rod won't contact the barrel in some way during cleaning, but how aggressive/careful should I be? I never learned how to clean my guns from anybody.... just manuals, internet, etc. Internet stuff is ok and I've seen many links here that have helped, but what I'd really like is a video of some sort so I can actually SEE someone else cleaning their guns the right way. I may just be paranoid, but I just want to make sure I don't mess it up.

I'm assuming this would not be a good example........ http://youtube.com/watch?v=TEoP8q5-3Jc

[gunman42782]

IMHO, the most important thing when cleaning any gun from the muzzle is to have a good bore guide. This is a device, usually made of brass, that guides the cleaning rod into the muzzle without the cleaning rod ever touching the muzzle. Proper jags of the right caliber are also a must. Check out Pro-Shot Products for the best cleaning stuff I have ever used in over 25 years of shooting.

[greener]

Follow the manuals. It's not very complicated. I do a wet patch with cleaning solvent (usually Hoppes #9) followed by a bronze brush, followed by dry patches until the patch comes clean. I've also used Breakfree. Clean the cylinders on the revolvers. Use solvent patches and a "toothbrush" on the other parts. Wipe with a dry patch until it comes off clean. A very light coat of oil to finish. Pay attention to the manuals' lubrication points. Don't use Hoppes or any cleaner with ammonia on a nickel-plated pistol. Tends to make the plating go away.

The .22 will not need cleaning as often as the .38 or .45, but it never hurts to clean them.

[Rustynuts]

Buy a Bianchi polymer cleaning rod and not worry about it!