Safety First: Your Top Priority
Unloading Procedures
The AK-47, a name synonymous with reliability and ruggedness, is more than just a firearm; it’s a legend. Born from necessity and forged in the crucible of conflict, this rifle has earned its place in history and continues to be a favorite among gun enthusiasts worldwide. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its simple design and exceptional ability to function under challenging conditions. However, even the most robust firearm requires proper care to maintain its performance, safety, and longevity. This guide will walk you through the essential steps of cleaning an AK-47, ensuring your rifle remains in peak operating condition for years to come.
Personal Protective Equipment
Before even considering handling any firearm, safety must be your unwavering priority. Cleaning an AK-47, like any gun maintenance task, demands the utmost attention to safety protocols. Neglecting these steps can lead to serious injury or worse.
Familiarization
The first and most critical step is always verifying the weapon is unloaded. Always double-check and triple-check. Begin by removing the magazine. Next, inspect the chamber visually to ensure it’s empty. You should be able to see through the chamber to confirm that there isn’t a cartridge present. Afterwards, cycle the action of the rifle, by manually moving the bolt carrier to the rear and then forward. This clears the action of any round that may have remained. If you are unsure how to complete this part safely, it is advised to seek assistance from a professional. After completing this, visually inspect the chamber again.
Proper eye protection is an absolute must. Cleaning solvents and lubricants can splash or spray, and these chemicals can be dangerous to your vision. Safety glasses are non-negotiable. Consider wearing gloves. Gloves provide a protective barrier between your skin and the cleaning agents and lubricants. Make sure to clean the rifle in a well-ventilated area. The fumes from solvents and lubricants can be harmful, especially in a confined space. An outdoor setting is ideal, but if you’re cleaning indoors, make sure there’s plenty of airflow.
Be aware of the specific instructions on the cleaning products. Some cleaning products require specific types of materials to be used, or the way they need to be applied to the gun.
Finally, familiarize yourself with the weapon. Knowing your AK-47, its functions, and its potential hazards is paramount to safe operation and handling.
Gathering the Necessary Tools and Supplies
Having the right tools and supplies will make the cleaning process much more efficient and effective. Don’t skimp on quality; investing in good tools will save you time and effort in the long run.
Start with a reliable cleaning rod. This is the backbone of the barrel cleaning process. Make sure it is the correct caliber to avoid damage to the bore. Select the appropriate type of bore brush, matching the caliber of your AK-47. A good quality brush effectively scrubs away carbon and fouling from the barrel. You’ll also need a chamber brush, which will be designed to clean the unique chamber of the AK-47 and is crucial for removing build-up in this area.
You’ll need cleaning patches. Cotton patches are ideal for absorbing solvent and wiping the bore. Choose patches that fit your rifle’s bore snugly. Use a quality bore solvent to dissolve powder residue, carbon, and copper fouling from the barrel. Good quality solvents will dissolve the gunk without damaging the metal.
Next, you’ll need a gun lubricant, like gun oil or a more advanced product like a CLP (Clean, Lubricate, Protect) solution. Choose a lubricant that is specifically designed for firearms, as these are formulated to withstand high temperatures and provide long-lasting protection. Use various types of cleaning brushes. Different sizes and shapes are useful for reaching hard-to-access areas. A toothbrush, for example, is excellent for cleaning the bolt carrier, and a small detail brush is perfect for small areas.
Have a pick or scraper, specifically designed for carbon removal. Small scrapers or dental picks can be very helpful for scraping off stubborn carbon deposits. Also, have a clean rag or cloth ready for wiping down parts and applying lubricant. And finally, if you have them, small containers or trays can be a lifesaver for organizing parts during disassembly and reassembly.
Field Stripping: The First Step to a Clean AK-47
Field stripping is the basic level of disassembly needed for regular cleaning. This allows you to access the key components for cleaning.
Begin by removing the magazine. Then, remove the top cover. Press the button located on the rear of the receiver cover, and lift the cover up and off. Next, remove the recoil spring assembly. It usually is held in place by a small retainer or slot. Carefully lift it out. Then, take out the bolt carrier and bolt. Pull the charging handle rearward and lift the bolt carrier upward. The bolt carrier should slide easily out of the receiver. The bolt will then be able to be pulled out of the bolt carrier.
Finally, remove the gas tube if necessary. Depending on your AK-47 model, the gas tube might need to be removed for optimal access to the gas block and internal components. Some require a lever to be flipped; others can be pulled straight out.
Remember, the key is to familiarize yourself with your specific rifle model, as minor variations exist. The purpose of this is to make the process simpler and less time consuming as you clean the AK-47.
Cleaning the Barrel: The Heart of the Firearm
The barrel is arguably the most critical part of the AK-47, and proper cleaning ensures accuracy and reliability.
Start the barrel cleaning with the bore. Dip a patch into the bore solvent, making sure it’s thoroughly saturated. Then, insert the patch into the chamber end of the barrel. Guide the patch through the bore using the cleaning rod. Don’t force it; let the patch do its job. After the patch is out the other end, let the solvent dwell in the barrel for a few minutes, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Next, using the cleaning rod, attach the appropriate bore brush. Push the brush through the barrel from the chamber end to the muzzle end. Repeat this action several times. It’s crucial to work the brush back and forth to scrub away any fouling and residue. After using the brush, remove it and replace it with a patch soaked in the solvent. Repeat with clean patches until they come out clean.
Finally, wipe the bore dry. This process removes any remaining solvent and prepares the barrel for lubrication. Once the bore is clean, turn your attention to the chamber. Use the chamber brush, ensuring it’s of the correct size, to clean the chamber thoroughly. This will remove any build-up.
Addressing Other Critical Components
Besides the barrel, many other parts of the AK-47 need to be cleaned.
The Bolt Carrier and Bolt
The bolt carrier and bolt are key moving parts. Carefully remove any carbon buildup using solvent, a brush, and, if necessary, a scraper. Pay special attention to the locking lugs on the bolt; these are critical for safe operation. Clean the firing pin channel to ensure the firing pin moves freely.
Receiver and Internal Parts
Next, clean the receiver and other internal parts. Use a solvent-soaked cloth or brush to remove any dirt, debris, or carbon build-up. Pay attention to the rails, and other surfaces where parts slide against each other.
Gas System
Then, the gas system requires your attention. This system is crucial for the rifle’s operation. Clean the gas tube and the piston of any carbon buildup. Over time, this can cause the rifle to malfunction.
Other Parts
Also, remember the handguard and other parts. Remove carbon buildup and dirt.
Applying Lubrication: Ensuring Smooth Operation
After cleaning, lubrication is essential to protect the rifle from corrosion and ensure smooth functioning.
Apply a light coat of lubricant to the appropriate parts, as excessive lubrication can attract dirt and debris. The correct areas to lubricate are along the bolt carrier rails. These are where the bolt carrier slides back and forth within the receiver. Lubricate the locking lugs on the bolt, which are subject to significant stress. Lubricate other moving parts, such as the trigger mechanism and the hammer. Remember, only use a small amount of lubricant.
Reassembly: Putting it All Back Together
Reassembly is the reverse process of disassembly. Ensure all parts are put in the correct order. Make sure all parts seat correctly, and pay attention to the direction of the parts and components.
Verify the proper function of the action. Cycle the bolt carrier to make sure it moves freely and that the action functions smoothly. Check all controls, like the safety and trigger to ensure they work properly.
Final Checks and Ongoing Maintenance
After reassembly, a final visual inspection is crucial. Check all parts and functions to verify everything is installed and working properly.
Perform a final function test. With an unloaded chamber, dry-fire the rifle to test the trigger’s function. Verify that all the controls, especially the safety, are working correctly.
Store the rifle in a safe place, preferably in a padded case, and away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Clean your AK-47 after every shooting session or at regular intervals, even if it hasn’t been fired. The environment the rifle is stored in can determine how frequently you clean it.
Addressing Potential Issues and Seeking Expert Assistance
While cleaning your AK-47 regularly can prevent many problems, sometimes issues arise.
Common Problems
The failure to cycle can happen. If the rifle won’t cycle rounds, it could be due to a dirty gas system, insufficient lubrication, or a problem with the ammunition. Failure to extract, which can be caused by a dirty chamber, a worn extractor, or problems with the cartridge. Accuracy issues that can result from a dirty barrel, a worn barrel, or a problem with the optics.
Seeking Professional Help
If problems persist, it is highly recommended to seek professional assistance from a qualified gunsmith. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and repair complex issues.
Conclusion: Embracing Responsibility and Enhancing Longevity
Cleaning an AK-47 is an essential aspect of responsible firearm ownership. By following these steps, you can ensure your rifle’s optimal performance, safety, and longevity. Maintaining your AK-47 isn’t just about function; it’s about respecting the craftsmanship and history of this legendary weapon.
Regular cleaning removes fouling and corrosion that can reduce accuracy and potentially lead to malfunctions. By taking care of your AK-47, you’re investing in its reliability and preserving its value.
Now, go forth and confidently care for your AK-47!
