IN THIS LESSON
maintainence & Safe storage
Clean your firearms after every use to keep them in top condition. For safe firearm storage, always store firearms unloaded, locked, and separate from ammunition.

CLEANING YOUR FIREARM
Before you clean your firearm
Treat all firearms as if they are loaded
This is the most fundamental rule.
Always verify the firearm is unloaded before cleaning
Check the chamber and magazine, and physically inspect the firearm to ensure no ammunition is present.
Remove all ammunition from the cleaning bench and ideally the area/room you are working in.
Never clean a firearm while doing something else
Focus on the cleaning process to ensure safety.
It is also highly recommended to wear eye protection and gloves when building, cleaning and maintaining your firearm. Lead and gunpowder are toxic materials and can be leeched into the skin and if debris from those materials gets in your eye its gonna be a bad time.
Cleaning Procedure
Choose a safe and well-lit workspace
Ensure the area is free from clutter and distractions.
Use appropriate cleaning tools & materials
This includes cleaning rods, bore brushes, patches, solvents, and lubricants.
Disassemble the firearm as per the manufacturer's instructions
This allows for a thorough cleaning of all components.
Clean the barrel first
Use a bore brush and solvent to remove residue and debris.
Clean the RECEIVERS, action & other moving parts
Use a brush and solvent to remove residue and debris from these areas.
Lubricate the firearm according to the manufacturer's recommendations
This ensures smooth operation and prevents corrosion.
Reassemble the firearm
Ensure all components are properly reassembled and that the firearm is functioning correctly.
Wipe down all components with a clean cloth
This removes any excess oil or solvent.
Store the firearm properly
Keep it in a clean, dry, and secure location.

STORING YOUR FIREARM
firearms storage guidelines
Unloaded
Always remove ammunition from the firearm and store it separately. Consider chamber flags to indicate the firearm is inert.
Locked
Store firearms in a locked room/location. If you have children or guests it is highly reccomended to store firearms in a gun safe, lockbox, or use a trigger lock or cable lock.
Separate
Keep ammunition stored separately from firearms in a secure location.
Inaccessible
Ensure keys, combinations, or biometric access methods are not accessible to children, adolescents, or those at elevated risk of harm to self or others.
Regularly check your storage
Ensure locks and safes are functioning correctly.
Educate yourself and others
Learn about safe firearm storage practices and share that knowledge with family and friends.
Consider your local laws
Be aware of any specific laws or regulations regarding firearm storage in your area.
Store firearms in a cool, clean, and dry place
This helps prevent rust and other damage.
Don't store firearms in the car
This can lead to theft or accidental access. Of course this does not mean don’t carry or transport your firearms in your car, just dont leave them unattended in a vehicle. Cars get stolen, and break-ins happen to vehicles much more often than buildings.