Everything You Need to Know About Gun Cleaning Kits

source: shootingcracow.com

 Keeping your guns clean is repsonsible, not only so they can shoot properly, but to keep yourself safe. No matter if you’re just starting out or you’ve been shooting for years, having the right gun cleaning kit is super important. If you're browsing gun cleaning kit in Canada stores, you'll easily get overwhelmed, especially if you're a first-time buyer. This guide should help you get the most important info.

Why Clean Your Guns?

Shooting creates all sorts of gunk like copper, lead, and carbon that can mess with how well your gun works. If you don’t clean your gun, especially after using corrosive ammo, that stuff can wear down the barrel. Plus, if carbon builds up in the chamber, it can lead to some serious issues during use. So, make sure to give your firearm a good clean after shooting and before you store it away for a while to keep rust at bay.

Different Types of Gun Cleaning Kits

Every firearm has its own maintenance requirements, and having the right cleaning kit can really make a difference. Let’s dive into the various types of gun cleaning kits out there and find out which one fits your collection best.  

Universal Cleaning Kits  

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If you're searching for a gun cleaning kit in Canada, chances are, you'll first come to the universal types. The universal cleaning kit is packed with a range of tools and accessories that can handle everything from handguns to rifles and shotguns. It's perfect for gun owners with a mix of firearms, offering a convenient all-in-one solution.  

Handgun and Shotgun Cleaning Kits  

Handgun cleaning kits are tailored for the compact and detailed parts of pistols and revolvers. These kits usually come with smaller brushes, jags, and patches that can easily reach the tight spots of a handgun. If you have a sleek semi-automatic or a classic revolver, a handgun cleaning kit will help keep every part of your firearm clean and in top shape. 

Shotgun cleaning kits are made for the larger bore and specific needs of shotguns, typically featuring bigger brushes and mops that fit various gauge sizes. 

Rifle Cleaning Kits  

Rifle cleaning kits are designed specifically for long guns, taking into account different calibres and barrel lengths. They often include longer cleaning rods, specialized brushes, and patches to effectively clean deep inside the barrel.  For hunters, competitive shooters, or tactical fans, a rifle cleaning kit is crucial for ensuring accuracy and reliability.  

Specialty Kits 

These kits are designed for unique firearms or specific cleaning tasks. They might include kits for black powder rifles, AR-15s, or even vintage guns. Specialty kits often come with specialized tools and solvents that cater to the unique materials and mechanisms of these firearms.  

If you have a rare or unusual gun, a specialty kit will help you clean and maintain it with the highest level of care and precision.

What a Gun Cleaning Kit Includes?

If you own firearms, having a gun cleaning kit is essential. Before you start searching gun cleaning kit, here's what that kit should contain.

• Cleaning Rod - This is the core component of your cleaning kit. It usually comes in several pieces that screw together to achieve the right length. Made from materials softer than steel, cleaning rods help prevent barrel damage and are crucial for upkeep. You can use them to scrub the barrel by pushing and pulling in a back-and-forth motion.
• Cable Pull Through - This is a flexible alternative to the cleaning rod. These nylon-coated steel cables offer a compact cleaning solution. For some firearms, this system allows for effective bore cleaning without needing to take the gun apart completely.
• Brushes - Different brushes serve different purposes. Bronze bore brushes tackle tough carbon buildup, while nylon brushes are gentler for sensitive areas. There are also various brushes for cleaning other parts of the gun, so choose the right size to protect the gun's finish.
• Cleaning Jags/Patch Holder - After using a brush on the barrel, you’ll want to use a patch to apply solvent or wipe away excess. You can attach the patch to a jag or a patch holder. Remember to change the patch with each pass to avoid putting dirt back into the barrel.
• Cotton Swabs - Long-handled cotton swabs can be a handy addition to your kit for detailed cleaning or quick touch-ups.
• Bore Mops - After cleaning the barrel, use a bore mop to apply gun oil, which helps protect against rust and environmental damage.
• Cleaner, Lubricant and Protectant - There are many cleaning chemicals out there, which can be overwhelming for new gun owners. Some products are tailored for specific tasks, so it’s good to familiarize yourself with them.
• Extras - Your gun cleaning kit can have extras such as gun mats and cleaning stands that can simplify the cleaning process. A gun mat helps keep everything in order and stops solvents and oils from making a mess, while a cleaning stand is great for holding long guns and making the whole cleaning job a breeze.