The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, renowned for its accuracy and reliability. Proper maintenance is crucial for preserving its performance and longevity. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps of cleaning your Remington 700, ensuring it remains in top shooting condition.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. Having everything readily available will make the cleaning process smoother and more efficient. You'll need:
- Remington 700 cleaning rod: A high-quality cleaning rod, ideally one specifically designed for the Remington 700's barrel length, is essential to avoid damaging the rifling. Avoid using a jag that's too small, as it could damage the bore.
- Cleaning patches: Choose patches that fit snugly inside the barrel without being overly tight. Use a sufficient quantity for thorough cleaning.
- Bore brush: A bore brush specifically designed for your caliber is crucial. Nylon or bronze brushes are commonly used.
- Gun oil: Use a high-quality gun oil specifically designed for firearms. Avoid using general-purpose oils or lubricants.
- Solvent: A good-quality bore solvent will help remove fouling and residue from the barrel.
- Cleaning patches: You'll need multiple patches for cleaning and oiling.
- Eye and hearing protection: Always prioritize safety.
- Cotton swabs: Helpful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- A soft cloth or rag: For wiping down the exterior of the rifle.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Safety always comes first. Ensure the firearm is unloaded and the action is open before beginning.
1. Disassemble for Cleaning
Carefully disassemble your Remington 700. This usually involves removing the bolt, removing the magazine, and potentially removing the stock depending on the level of cleaning you plan to do. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions on disassembly if needed. Do not force anything.
2. Clean the Barrel
This is the most crucial step.
- Apply solvent: Pour a small amount of bore solvent into the barrel.
- Run the bore brush: Attach the bore brush to your cleaning rod and run it through the barrel several times. Push the brush from the breech (rear) to the muzzle (front) to remove fouling.
- Follow with a clean patch: Run a clean patch through the barrel to remove excess solvent and loosened residue.
- Repeat the process: Continue running the bore brush and patches until the patches emerge clean.
3. Clean the Bolt
Carefully disassemble the bolt and clean all components thoroughly with solvent and patches. Pay close attention to the firing pin and extractor. Lightly oil these parts after cleaning.
4. Clean the Action
Clean the receiver and surrounding areas with a soft cloth and solvent. Remove any debris or residue.
5. Clean the Exterior
Wipe down the entire rifle with a soft cloth to remove any dirt, grime, or fingerprints. Pay particular attention to the trigger and stock.
6. Lubricate
After cleaning, lightly lubricate all moving parts with gun oil. Focus on the bolt, trigger mechanism, and any other areas where metal parts move against each other.
7. Reassemble
Carefully reassemble your Remington 700, following the reverse order of disassembly. Double-check to ensure all components are correctly installed.
Frequency of Cleaning
The frequency of cleaning depends on several factors, including how often you shoot and the type of ammunition used. As a general guideline, clean your Remington 700 after each shooting session, or at least every few months if it's not frequently used.
Beyond Basic Cleaning
For more in-depth cleaning, consider professional cleaning and maintenance if you lack experience.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of cleaning your Remington 700. Remember to always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. Consistent and proper cleaning will ensure your Remington 700 remains a reliable and accurate firearm for years to come.
