Revolver Cleaning

I'm considering using my S&W Model 14 for CF matches and would like to know how the experts are cleaning revolvers these days.  What's the latest method, or is good ol' Hoppe's and a bronze brush still the standard?

Hello 230Ball,

Assuming that you are using lead bullets....

1)  Use a saturated patch and swab out the barrel and chambers with "Kroil"
2)  Let sit for an hour or so
3)  Brush out with a stiff nylon brush and patches
4)  Oil up and walk away

Easy peasy.

Jim

P.S. I still uses good ol' Hoppes Number Nine with patches and a toothbrush to clean the outside (forcing cone, breech face, etcetera).

Ive used a 50/50 mix of Kroil and Hoppe's for a while.. sort of the best of both worlds

'Never thought of Kroil... great stuff!  Adding it to the Hoppe's sounds great too!

This isn't my post, but I have a follow up question.  What is the best way to clean the area below the top strap.  This is the very small area where the barrel is screwed into the frame.

Dental picks, next trip to the DDS ask for some used up utensils. Sterilize them and you will have good sharp, strong tools for years to come.

I was just using Kroil as suggested earlier on my Model 14, including between the top strap and the barrel forcing cone.  My "pick" of choice is a pointed bamboo or wooden skewer.  They are very cheap and far sturdier than tooth picks, and the points seems to dislodge most caked-on residue after soaking with your solvent of choice.  There's also no chance of ad hoc engraving.  I leave that to the pros.

The product was my next question.

I've used Kroil in cleaning vintage and milsurp weapons that have been in storage or not in use for many years, but never considered using it in routine maintenance... go figure.  The stuff is on my bench and is now moved to the front of my solvent lineup.  The key (regardless of solvent) is to let it soak and to be patient.  Of course, you probably already know this.  I just have to keep repeating it to myself when I work.  BTW, dental picks are great tools.  They are just a temptress to me, trying to tease away my patience.

bbh791 wrote:This isn't my post, but I have a follow up question.  What is the best way to clean the area below the top strap.  This is the very small area where the barrel is screwed into the frame.

If not too bad dental floss may work, or similar non-metallic sturdy thread.


Martin

I use Ballistol. Soak the gun down in the morning and clean it up in the afternoon. There is Hoppes #9 on my bench as well as Gun Scrubber but I don't remember the last time I used either of those on a revolver. The caveat with Ballistol is that my revolvers are cleaned frequently and I don't shoot anything that leads the barrel so they never get really dirty.

Lewis lead remover + Kano Kroil in my 14-4 and my 15-4 PPC Revolver.

bbh791 wrote:This isn't my post, but I have a follow up question.  What is the best way to clean the area below the top strap.  This is the very small area where the barrel is screwed into the frame.

A lightly soaked patch with powder solvent and run it like a shoeshine rag along the underside of the strap, top of the forcing cone and the frame.

SW-52 wrote:Lewis lead remover + Kano Kroil in my 14-4 and my 15-4 PPC Revolver.

LLR and Kroil. I've used so much Kroil on revolvers I'm surprised the barrels the haven't unscrewed themselves.

Ballistol afterwards. Wood or plastic scrapers (or copper Chore-Boy).

I use Ed's Red formula:
One part each Kroil, Mineral Spirits, Acetone and Dextron III Transmission Fluid.
Wipe down when done and leaves a nice oil film.
Dave