How often to clean the M14

[CanuckShooter]

How often do you guys clean your M14's? I know some clean theirs at the range with a boresnake and then at home with a rod a little less frequently. I just don't want to over do it and wear down the rifling or whatever, but also don't want pitting or anything.

So what's the recommended frequency be it with a boresnake or rod.

Thanks

PS - Are the boresnakes safe to use on the M14's bore?

 

[Unregistered]

I clean with a boresnake after every range trip and strip it down and clean everything, including the bore with a rod, every 200 rounds, though you could probably get away with doing the extensive cleaning every 500 rounds if there is no bad weather or dirt.

 

[Gunslinger]

800-1000 rounds between cleanings, but that all depends on the frequency. If you're at the range every week, shoot and don't get too anal about cleaning.

 

[Unregistered]

Really, the only thing that rusts up of its own accord seems to be the non-chromed gas cylinder in the Norincos

 

[platnumbob]

i clean my action everytime i shoot it...even if its only like 15 rounds. my barel i clean every other time i shoot or like 200 rounds?

 

[gaudzy]

every time i come back from the range i clean mine. And i would worry about wearing down the rifling just with cleaning.

 

[The Wizard]

Anyone who does not clean their weapon as soon as possible after firing it does not deserve to own it and should give it to someone who would truly appreciate it!

 

[Holleyman]

Full cleaning after every trip to the range!

 

[Shawn Fahy]

Disassembly

Your M14 will retain accuracy, reliability, and fit better if you clean without disassembly. You can clean the entire reciever via mag well and ejection port without removing anything more than the magazine. Get a stripper clip to place in the guide when cleaning to prevent the bolt from flying closed by accident. Strip it down every 3-500 rounds and clean up everything from the bolt to the gas system. Lube with CV joint grease NOT OIL!
Keep your rifle clean, but keep repeated disassembly to a minimum.