New to the sport - recent rifle purchase, some questions....

[LordKermit]

Good Afternoon,

My thanks in advance for any help offered.

I recently purchased my first rifle, a Tikka T3 Stainless .243.

My first question is regarding maintenance.

The gentleman at the store suggested cleaning the gun once I got home, is that necessary if I am not planning on going to a range for at least the next month or so (assuming I can wait that long!!!)?

I purchased a Hoppes bore cleaning kit which he suggested (special cord with a copper tip to run through the barrel), along with their brand solvent, oil, and a silicone cloth.

Basically I am looking to ensure that I keep this thing in high working condition and dont make any stupid 'newbie' mistakes!

Cheers

[4n2t0]

Nice choice!

It is not necessary for you to clean the rifle before shooting. I would clean it just before going out to the range. Often times manufacturers will use rust inhibiting chemicals/oils to help protect the firearm while it's being stored.

The kit didn't come with a rod? It doesn't really matter, settle into a cleaning routine that suits you best.

[Corry]

Congrats and welcome

I clean all my new firearms as soon as I get them home. My thinking is it never hurts to clean, dissemble and reassemble your firearm to familiarize yourself with it......

happy shooting

[Magellann]

Welcome aboard! You can't go wrong with a Tikka, and I would give it a good cleaning prior to firing it the first time.