part 2
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• For basic cleaning, there is no need to remove the side plate. This also means you will not be separating the cylinder from the frame.
• Separated from the frame or not, do not attempt to disassemble the cylinder. You can easily clean the cylinder and related parts without separating them from one another.
• Do NOT try to remove the barrel shroud and barrel from the frame. It is not necessary for cleaning and should only be done by a qualified gunsmith.
3. Release the cylinder latch and swing the cylinder out to be cleaned.
4. Your revolver is now
ready to be cleaned. (Note: If you have a solid-frame, gate-loaded revolver, you will forego the third step and rotate the cylinder by hand — just as you would when loading or unloading — to access each chamber.)
Cleaning Your Revolver
You have endless options when it comes to cleaning products. I usually use SEAL 1, but I also have a bin of random cleaning products. Some work better than others, and some are meant for more specific uses. Find one you like and don’t stress over what is considered best by social media “experts.”
For simplicity’s sake, I’ll outline the cleaning process using SEAL 1, a non-toxic, environmentally friendly and multi-purpose cleaner designed to cut through carbon build-up while also lubricating and protecting.
In addition to cleaning after use, Smith & Wesson recommends cleaning and lubricating your revolver every time it is exposed to sand, dust, extreme humidity or water. The company also warns against excessive ultrasonic cleaning and prolonged immersion in solvents. Ammoniated or alkaline solvents should not be used ever. Use cleaning and lubricating products specifically designed for firearms.
1. Begin with the barrel. Saturate an appropriately sized brass bore brush with SEAL 1 CLP Plus Liquid. Move the bore brush through vigorously, pausing to re-apply your cleaning agent at least once. Using a bore brush will scrub the bore and loosen build-up, simplifying the next step. (Note: Always clean the barrel from the chamber end, not the muzzle end.)
2. Switch to a cleaning rod with a jag on the end and slip a SEAL Skinz through the jag. Skinz are pre-saturated, but if you use a dry patch, saturate it with SEAL 1 CLP Plus Liquid or another cleaning liquid. Run multiple patches through the barrel until they come out clean. When you’re satisfied, run one final saturated patch through the barrel.
3. Move on to the cylinder. Again, you’ll be using a properly fitted brass bore brush saturated with SEAL 1 CLP Plus Liquid. Run the bore brush through each chamber of the cylinder.
4. When you've thoroughly scrubbed each chamber, switch to the cleaning rod with the jag attached. Slip a saturated patch through the jag and run it through each chamber. Do this until every chamber is clean. Once they are all clean, run a final patch through each to lightly lubricate them.
5. Using a soft rag dampened with lubricant, wipe dirt off the frame. Pay attention to the area beneath the grips; dirt and dust tend to accumulate there.
6. When you are done, use the same soft rag to lightly coat the revolver with lubricant. Wipe excess fluid from the chambers and bore using a clean, dry patch on a cleaning jag.
7. Reassemble your revolver.
Cleaning your revolver is a relatively simple process. Whether you use your gun for self-defense, hunting or plinking at the range, you should maintain it lovingly