Proper firearm maintenance is critical for ensuring safety, functionality, and the longevity of your weapon. While cleaning your firearm may seem like a straightforward task, even experienced gun owners can make costly or dangerous mistakes. Poor cleaning habits can lead to reduced performance, corrosion, or even catastrophic failure.
Whether you're a new gun owner or a seasoned firearm enthusiast, avoiding the most common firearm cleaning mistakes is essential for protecting your investment and staying safe. In this guide, we’ll explore the top five mistakes to avoid when cleaning your firearm and share tips for doing it right.
1. Not Reading the Manufacturer’s Manual
One of the most common mistakes firearm owners make is failing to read or reference the manufacturer’s manual before cleaning. Each firearm has unique specifications, components, and maintenance requirements. Assuming that all guns can be cleaned the same way is not only incorrect—it can damage the firearm.
The manual provides essential information, including:
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The correct disassembly procedure
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Safe cleaning solutions to use
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Parts that require lubrication
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Components that should never be oiled
Neglecting this information can lead to over-lubrication, corrosion, or misassembly. Always consult your firearm’s manual before beginning any cleaning process. If you no longer have a physical copy, many manufacturers provide manuals online.
2. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Not all cleaning supplies are created equal. One of the most damaging mistakes gun owners make is using harsh or incompatible chemicals and materials when cleaning their firearm.
Products not designed specifically for firearms can:
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Strip protective coatings
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Leave corrosive residues
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Damage metal or polymer components
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Compromise the bore or firing mechanisms
It’s important to use high-quality, firearm-safe cleaning products. At GuardTech Plus, you'll find a selection of trusted firearm cleaning kits and supplies specifically designed to support safe and effective maintenance. Explore our firearm cleaning collection to get started with reliable tools.
Some recommended components for any cleaning kit:
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Bore brushes and jags made from soft brass or nylon
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Lint-free cleaning patches
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Firearm-specific solvent and lubricant
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Bore rope for quick cleanups
Investing in the right cleaning supplies ensures you're protecting your firearm while keeping it in optimal condition.
3. Over-Lubricating or Under-Lubricating
Lubrication is an essential part of the cleaning process, but it's easy to overdo it—or not do it enough. Over-lubricating can attract dust and carbon fouling, which builds up and interferes with the firearm's moving parts. On the other hand, under-lubrication can cause excessive friction and lead to wear and tear over time.
The key is to apply a thin, even layer of lubricant to only the moving parts recommended in your firearm's manual. Avoid oiling non-metallic parts or any area where excessive lubricant could seep into the firing chamber.
When in doubt, use GuardTech Plus as your go-to source for trusted maintenance products and kits tailored to responsible gun care.
4. Skipping Regular Cleaning
Failing to clean your firearm regularly is one of the most damaging habits for any gun owner. Even if a gun hasn’t been used, exposure to humidity, dust, and environmental particles can cause corrosion and degrade performance over time.
If you're using your firearm frequently—especially for hunting, competition, or defense—it should be cleaned after each use. For firearms in storage, conduct periodic checks and routine maintenance every few months.
Neglecting to clean your firearm regularly can lead to:
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Rust and corrosion in the barrel
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Build-up of carbon and lead fouling
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Malfunctions or failure to fire
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Damage to internal parts
For step-by-step guidance and access to complete gun cleaning kits, visit the GuardTech Plus homepage and browse our expert-curated tools to support regular maintenance routines.
5. Improper Storage After Cleaning
After a thorough cleaning, your firearm still requires proper storage to ensure it remains in good condition. Many owners make the mistake of storing their firearm in a damp or unventilated space or in a soft case that retains moisture.
Best practices for post-cleaning storage include:
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Storing the firearm in a dry, climate-controlled space
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Using a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing packets in your safe
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Keeping the firearm unloaded and with a chamber flag or indicator
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Ensuring no excess oil or solvent remains on the surface before storing
Firearms stored improperly after cleaning are at high risk of rust and operational degradation. For advice on responsible storage practices or to speak with a firearms expert, contact GuardTech Plus today.
Bonus Tips for Safe and Effective Firearm Cleaning
Beyond avoiding the five common mistakes, here are a few additional practices that every firearm owner should consider when cleaning their weapon:
Use a Cleaning Mat or Station
A dedicated gun-cleaning station helps prevent small parts from getting lost and keeps chemicals away from surfaces. A mat with raised edges also protects your workspace.
Clean in a Well-Ventilated Area
Solvents and oils can release fumes that are harmful if inhaled in enclosed spaces. Clean your firearm in a well-ventilated room or outdoors when possible.
Wear Gloves and Eye Protection
Cleaning agents can irritate skin and eyes. Wearing protective gear minimizes your exposure to solvents, oils, and fouling debris.
Double-Check for Obstructions
After cleaning, always inspect the barrel and chamber to ensure no cleaning patches, rods, or debris are left behind before reassembly and storage.
For more maintenance tools, kits, and helpful guidance, explore our product line at GuardTech Plus. Each product is designed with firearm safety and longevity in mind.
Final Thoughts
Properly cleaning your firearm is not just about performance—it’s about safety, responsibility, and protecting your investment. While cleaning may seem like a basic task, overlooking the essentials can result in major issues down the road.
Avoiding these five common mistakes—ignoring the manual, using the wrong products, over/under-lubricating, skipping regular cleaning, and improper storage—will help ensure your firearm stays in excellent condition and operates as intended.
For more trusted cleaning supplies and expert-approved tools, shop at GuardTech Plus and ensure you're maintaining your firearm with confidence. If you have questions or need product recommendations, don’t hesitate to contact our team.
Frequently Asked Questions About the GuardTech Plus Kit
Over-lubrication can cause dust and debris to stick to moving parts, resulting in fouling buildup, which can impair function and cause jamming or misfires.
No. Household cleaners may contain chemicals that can corrode metal parts or damage protective coatings. Always use firearm-specific cleaning agents, like those available at GuardTech Plus.
Yes, but always follow the manufacturer’s manual closely and use the right tools. If you’re uncertain, seek professional guidance or use a cleaning kit designed for beginners.
Store it in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. Use a safe with a dehumidifier and avoid soft cases that trap moisture.
GuardTech Plus offers a wide selection of high-quality cleaning kits and maintenance tools. Visit our collections page or homepage to explore your options.
Let GuardTech Plus Help You Clean With Confidence
At GuardTech Plus, we understand that proper firearm care is essential to performance, reliability, and safety. That’s why our products are designed with precision, durability, and ease of use in mind.
From beginner-friendly kits to professional-grade tools, we support firearm owners across all experience levels. For any questions or product assistance, visit our Contact page. We're here to help you clean smarter, safer, and more effectively—every time.
