How to Use the AR-15 Cleaning Kit Effectively

Maintaining your AR-15 is not just about ensuring its longevity—it’s about safety, performance, and accuracy. Regular cleaning is essential, and using a reliable kit like the AR-15 Cleaning Kit by GuardTech Plus can make all the difference. Whether you're a first-time gun owner or a seasoned enthusiast, knowing how to use your cleaning kit effectively is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step to make the most out of your cleaning kit, all while preserving the quality and functionality of your firearm. 

Why Cleaning Your AR-15 is Critical 

Over time, carbon residue, dirt, and grime accumulate in your AR-15 due to repeated firing and exposure to the elements. If not addressed, this buildup can cause serious issues such as jamming, misfiring, and degraded accuracy. Using a dedicated AR-15 cleaning kit like the one from GuardTech Plus ensures that you can disassemble, clean, and reassemble your firearm properly. Regular maintenance increases your firearm’s lifespan and ensures consistent performance, especially when you need it most. 

What's Inside the AR-15 Cleaning Kit from GuardTech Plus 

The AR-15 Cleaning Kit from GuardTech Plus is designed for efficiency and ease of use. It includes essential tools like a bore brush, chamber brush, cleaning rod, patches and picks. Each component plays a role in deep-cleaning specific parts of your firearm. The kit is also compact and easy to transport, making it ideal for both home use and field maintenance. GuardTech Plus has ensured that every element of the kit is crafted for durability and effectiveness. 

Step 1: Safety First – Clear Your Firearm 

Before you begin cleaning, always ensure your AR-15 is unloaded and safe to handle. Remove the magazine and visually inspect the chamber. Once confirmed, place your firearm on a clean, flat surface. This step is essential and should never be skipped, regardless of how experienced you are. Safety is the first line of responsibility when handling any firearm. With your AR-15 clear, you're ready to begin the disassembly process using your GuardTech Plus AR-15 Cleaning Kit. 

Step 2: Field Strip Your AR-15 

Field stripping involves separating the upper and lower receivers, removing the bolt carrier group (BCG), and taking out the charging handle. These steps are essential to gain access to internal parts that require cleaning. While complete disassembly isn’t always necessary, a field strip is sufficient for regular maintenance. The components are designed to come apart without specialized tools, and with the GuardTech Plus cleaning kit nearby, you’ll have everything needed to proceed efficiently. 

Step 3: Cleaning the Barrel with the Bore Brush 

Attach the bore brush to the cleaning rod provided in your GuardTech Plus AR-15 Cleaning Kit. Apply a liberal amount of cleaning solvent to the brush and push it through the barrel from the chamber end to the muzzle. This removes carbon buildup and powder residue that accumulate after shooting. Repeat this process several times for a thorough clean. This step helps preserve barrel accuracy and ensures consistent firing over time. 

Step 4: Use Cleaning Patches for Precision 

After scrubbing the barrel, follow up with dry cleaning patches attached to the jag tip or slotted tip of the cleaning rod. Push several patches through until they come out clean. This removes remaining solvent and dirt. Be sure to replace patches often during the process. The GuardTech Plus AR-15 Cleaning Kit includes an ample supply of patches so you won’t run short during regular maintenance. Clean patches are an indicator that your barrel is fully free of contaminants.  While the GuardTech Plus kit includes patches, they need to be cut to size before use. 

Step 5: Cleaning the Chamber and Lugs 

The chamber brush included in your GuardTech Plus cleaning kit is specifically designed to clean the AR-15’s chamber and locking lugs. Attach the chamber brush to the rod and scrub the chamber thoroughly, especially around the lugs. This area often traps carbon buildup, which can lead to malfunctions if left untreated. Apply a small amount of solvent before brushing and follow with a patch or cloth to remove loosened debris. This step is crucial for reliability during shooting sessions. 

Step 6: Detail the Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) 

The bolt carrier group is the heart of your AR-15. Disassemble the BCG and use the provided picks and brushes from the GuardTech Plus kit to scrub carbon deposits from the bolt, firing pin, and carrier. Pay special attention to the gas key and bolt tail. Once cleaned, lightly oil these components before reassembling. Proper care of the BCG ensures smooth cycling and helps avoid jamming or misfires during operation. 

Step 7: Clean the Upper and Lower Receivers 

Use cloth patches or the provided nylon brush to clean the inside of both the upper and lower receivers. Remove any grit, residue, or old lubricant. Avoid over-scrubbing sensitive areas. Once clean, apply a light coat of oil to prevent corrosion. The compact tools in the GuardTech Plus AR-15 Cleaning Kit allow you to reach tight spaces inside the receivers without causing damage. Consistent care keeps these components operating smoothly for years. 

Step 8: Lubrication – Less is More 

Too much oil can attract dirt and debris, while too little can result in friction and wear. A thin, even layer is sufficient. Proper lubrication enhances your AR-15’s cycling and helps prevent wear.  

Step 9: Reassemble Your AR-15 

Once each component has been cleaned, dried, and lubricated, reassemble your AR-15 in reverse order of disassembly. Ensure everything clicks back into place securely. Function check your firearm by cycling the bolt and engaging the safety. Reassembly is simple and efficient when you’ve used a comprehensive kit like the AR-15 Cleaning Kit from GuardTech Plus. A properly reassembled firearm should feel clean and operate smoothly. 

Step 10: Final Wipe Down and Storage 

Finish your cleaning session by wiping down the exterior of your firearm with a clean cloth. This removes fingerprints and adds a final layer of protection. Store your AR-15 in a dry, secure location. Be sure to return all cleaning tools to the storage pouch included with the GuardTech Plus AR-15 Cleaning Kit so they’re ready for next time. Proper storage extends the life of both your firearm and your tools. 

How Often Should You Clean Your AR-15? 

Cleaning frequency depends on how often you shoot. For range sessions under 100 rounds, a light wipe-down may suffice. However, after heavy use or exposure to dust, rain, or grime, a full clean is recommended. Using your GuardTech Plus AR-15 Cleaning Kit regularly keeps your weapon in top shape. A good rule of thumb is to perform a thorough cleaning every 300–500 rounds or after any extended outdoor use. 

Benefits of Using GuardTech Plus AR-15 Cleaning Kit 

Choosing the right tools matters. The GuardTech Plus AR-15 Cleaning Kit is tailored specifically for your rifle, eliminating the guesswork of piecing together individual items. It's compact, portable, and durable. Whether you’re on the range or at home, this kit has everything you need. GuardTech Plus also provides excellent customer service via their contact page for any questions or replacements. 

Tips for First-Time Cleaners 

If you’re new to firearm maintenance, start slowly and follow instructions carefully. Lay your tools out in an organized manner before beginning. Refer back to the GuardTech Plus product page for additional tips. Avoid rushing—take the time to learn each component of your AR-15 and where it fits. Using the GuardTech Plus Cleaning Kit gives you an easy entry point into responsible firearm care. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Many gun owners either over-lubricate or under-clean their firearms. Avoid using household cleaners or generic brushes not designed for firearm parts. Stick to tools provided in the GuardTech Plus AR-15 Cleaning Kit to prevent damage. Another common mistake is neglecting small components like the extractor or gas rings. A proper clean means every surface is touched, not just the barrel. Stay disciplined with your routine. 

Why GuardTech Plus is the Right Choice 

GuardTech Plus stands out because they focus on quality, user-friendliness, and durability. Their AR-15 cleaning kit is built with precision in mind and trusted by AR-15 owners nationwide. When you choose GuardTech Plus, you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in long-term care for your firearm. With excellent customer support and detailed guides, GuardTech Plus helps make cleaning a seamless experience.