The revolver is an American classic dating back centuries ago and getting its rise to fame in the 1800’s thanks to Samuel Colt. Revolvers have hard to reach places due to their design, making them a little more difficult to clean than a modern handgun.
You need the right tools of the trade to clean a revolver. You could get by with a toothbrush, a rag, and the right solvent but the process is more effective and quick if you get a gun cleaning kit. Gun cleaning kits will run for $20 for a starter kit, but you can spend up to $60 and up for a kit with a nice case. Skip the cheap kits: spend at least $20 so you don’t get subpar solvent and materials. You will be using your kit for years to come so make sure it’s a good one.
Safety always comes first: make sure the revolver doesn’t have live rounds in it before attempting to clean it. Any firing mechanisms may also be disabled for further safety. Begin the cleaning process by removing the cylinder and prepare to use the bore cleaning tool. Optionally, you may tie a rag around rear cylinder opening so that you won’t touch anything except the bore in this step.
The most simple way to clean a revolver that is moderately tainted is two get three separate patches. With the first, dip it in the solvent and go over the revolver well enough that you are in every nook and cranny. Use the second patch to get most of the solvent off and get any remaining residue. The third patch should take off any excess solvent. If you have more grime on the third patch, repeat the process.
Use your brush to clean the cylinder of the firearm. Your brush should be specifically created for the measurements of your revolver so you won’t have to do any extra work in getting the hard to reach spots. If you don’t have your cleaning kit brush handy, the best makeshift tool is a toothbrush. Use a medium bristle if possible so you can get a firm cleaning.
To this point, the cleaning process is something you do after ever session with your revolver. If you haven’t taken your firearm completely apart and cleaned every part in a long time, it’s probably best you do so. Grime does build up in hard to reach places and it can cause serious safety risks if allowed to continue. Look at your revolver manual to see how to properly disassemble it for cleaning.
Closing Comments
Cleaning a revolver is simple. Much more so than cleaning some modern rifles and handguns. However, you shouldn’t skimp over the process and go through it quickly. Take your time and clean your revolver with care so that you can continue to enjoy your investment in your firearm and hobby.
If you’re having problems cleaning the hard to reach places, such as your boresight, you should look into getting a cleaning kit. Odds are you won’t spend over twenty bucks for a gun cleaning kit so it won’t break the bank.
