Manual

2
CLEANING EQUIPMENT
Cleaning Rod
The cleaning rod is used to push cleaning attachments, i.e., brushes, patches or
jags through the barrel. The cleaning rod should be inserted from the chamber
end of the barrel when possible. It should be long enough to pass completely
through the barrel and strong enough to resist bending when pressure is applied.
Cleaning rods are made from various materials: however, brass, aluminum or
coated metal are the most desirable. Regardless of the type of cleaning rod
selected, improper use may cause excessive wear on the barrel, especially at the
muzzle end. Continual wear on the muzzle is detrimental to the accuracy of the
weapon.
Bore Brush
Bore brushes can be of several types: nylon, brass or bronze, and stainless steel.
The brass or bronze brush is recommended for cleaning the bore. Nylon bristles
are rarely strong enough to loosen bore fouling and stainless steel bristles are
overly aggressive due to their hardness. The bore brush used should be of the
same caliber in size as your semiautomatic pistol. The bore brush is most
effective when used with solvent.
Use a bore brush only in the barrel of the weapon; do not use it as a general-
purpose scrub brush.
Do not reverse direction while the brush is actually in the barrel. Instead, push the
brush slowly all the way through the barrel before reversing direction. This will
maximize the cleaning potential of the bore brush, as well as maintain its
usefulness over a longer period of time.
Slotted Patch Holder and Jag
These devices are used for pushing the patches through the barrel. Care should
be exercised when using either to ensure that they do not mar the lands and
grooves of the barrel.
The slotted tip allows the patch to be moved through the bore primarily for solvent
distribution. The jag allows for a more precise fit of the patch in the bore to
enhance removal of firing residue. Use the correct diameter jag to ensure a tight fit
of the patch in the bore.
Patches
Patches are either round or square and should be made of soft, absorbent
material. Some patches have a woven side and a fibrous side. The woven side
may assist in introducing solvent into the barrel and provides a scrubbing surface,
while the fibrous side may be used to remove the residue left by the solvent's
chemical action. Patches may also be used to dry the bore and lightly lubricate the
entire pistol.