[gordonw1]

Well, I decided today to clean my BCG, and after removing the bolt I noticed a good bit of carbon built in in the back, where the tail of the bolt rests. So, I squirted a good bit of CLP down there, cleaned the bolt and then tried toothpicks and q-tips to clean the carrier. Well, that didn't work very well, soooooo, I used a flat head screwdriver to lightly and carefully scrape some of the carbon out. I checked it after every scrape and saw no metal shavings or any sort, just black stuff. I looked in it with a flashlight and didn't see any burrs and the bolt went back in without any issues.

Just so every knows, I have the Spikes BCG, phosphate outside, chrome inside.

Anyone think I did any significant damage?

 

[Mr Evilwrench]

Probably better ways to clean it, but I'd think all those parts are at least as hard as a screwdriver, and if you didn't see anything but black, you probably didn't even damage the chrome. You probably didn't hit anything with close tolerances, anyway. Lubricate properly. Go forth and sin no more.

 

[mvician]

No, since they actually do make and sell "bolt scrapers" to clean off the carbon.


For the bolt

http://www.brownells.com/.aspx/sid=...187_a_7c745_a_7c080000639_d_080000639_d_11506

for the carrier

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewproduct/?productnumber=933512&cm_mmc=Froogle-_-Shooting%20-%20Gun%20Cleaning-_-PriceCompListing-_-933512


review on ar15.com

http://www.ar15.com/content/products/cleaning/boltCarrierScraper/

 

[gordonw1]

No, since they actually do make and sell "bolt scrapers" to clean off the carbon.

That's what gave me the idea.

Thanks guys, I shall stick to non-invasive ways to clean that part from now on. I am a bit OCD when it comes to clean weapons.

 

[MikeXD.40]

That's what gave me the idea.

Thanks guys, I shall stick to non-invasive ways to clean that part from now on. I am a bit OCD when it comes to clean weapons.

Its not OCD when you want it to work right!

 

[gordonw1]

Well, I soaked the BCG in Hoppes (good grief, I forgot how bad that stuff smells, I usually use CLP). I used a plastic dental style pic and a nylon bore brush for a .45. I just gently scrubbed with the brush and then used the dental pic with a patch. Seemed to work pretty well. Wiped everything down with some CLP and a little oil and put it the bcg back in.

 

[Mephis]

Damn if that'll screw up my AR I better stop using needle nose pliars to loosen up the carbon build ups!

FYI I've never even scratched the bolt's finish.

 

[Dirty Rod]

Its not OCD when you want it to work right!

Just remember that it doesn't need to be that clean to function. As long as it's got lube, it will go thousands of rounds between cleanings. My Colt sometimes goes several multi-day classes before it gets cleaned. Even then, I think it went almost 1200 rounds before I added more lube.

 

[MPDC]

IF you use CLP, liberally coat the surfaces (use the pressurized spray can type) and let it sit overnight or longer. Much easier to remove carbon if the CLP works in for a few hours. Otherwise, brake cleaner (non chlorinated) and an old toothbrush can do the job with a bit of elboe grease.

IF you like scraping and want a specific instrument (albiet pricey) http://dynamicarmament.com/items/ar...tool-for-cleaning-ar-15-m-16-bolts-detail.htm

 

[Deadcenter]

The AR's DI gas system is more robust than a lot of people give it credit for.

I'm not so much a stickler for cleaning every last spec of carbon, just lube it and it will run.

 

[MPDC]

The AR's DI gas system is more robust than a lot of people give it credit for.

I'm not so much a stickler for cleaning every last spec of carbon, just lube it and it will run.

THIS is true, +1

 

[ChileRelleno]

Late to this party...


Best thing I ever found and did, was to have my entire BCG coated with 'Micro-slick' by Amelon Coatings.
Carbon just about wipes off with a dry patch, definitely no scraping needed.
For those times when I don't clean between range trips and subsequently really bake it on, a little KG-1 on a patch does the trick.

 

[slugger6]

I am a bit OCD when it comes to clean weapons.

You are among like-minded people!

 

[XDMulisha]

Well, I decided today to clean my BCG, and after removing the bolt I noticed a good bit of carbon built in in the back, where the tail of the bolt rests. So, I squirted a good bit of CLP down there, cleaned the bolt and then tried toothpicks and q-tips to clean the carrier. Well, that didn't work very well, soooooo, I used a flat head screwdriver to lightly and carefully scrape some of the carbon out. I checked it after every scrape and saw no metal shavings or any sort, just black stuff. I looked in it with a flashlight and didn't see any burrs and the bolt went back in without any issues.

Just so every knows, I have the Spikes BCG, phosphate outside, chrome inside.

Anyone think I did any significant damage?

Ur fine brother

 

[XDMulisha]

You are among like-minded people!

as am I

 

[Smoakie976]

Don't have an AR, but have been researching this stuff. Frog Lube

 

[gordonw1]

Well, I didn't feel like making a whole new thread about this but...

What is the best non-toxic (non-petroleum based) cleaner? I typically just use BreakFree CLP, but figured I would see if you guys knew of another cleaner that would work as well or better.

 

[Smoakie976]

Well, I didn't feel like making a whole new thread about this but...

What is the best non-toxic (non-petroleum based) cleaner? I typically just use BreakFree CLP, but figured I would see if you guys knew of another cleaner that would work as well or better.

Check out the video that I posted and research Frog Lube. It is 100% all natural and good for your skin, non petrolium product. FrogLube HomePage ~ It Just Works!

 

[gordonw1]

Check out the video that I posted and research Frog Lube. It is 100% all natural and good for your skin, non petrolium product. FrogLube HomePage ~ It Just Works!

I have seen that stuff before, really interested in it. I was just wondering what else was out there that people had used and had success with.

 

[Husky44]

Having cleaned more M16s than I can count over a 23 year career, you didn't do any harm. I've scraped with dental tools, screwdrivers, my personal favorite for cleaning the insides of the bolt carrier was the firing pin.

Another favorite was Comet cleanser and hot water... platoon sergeant always came unraveled when he saw it, but never complained that our weapons were the cleanest in the arms room.

If you can scrape the coating off your bolt carrier or bolt, then...

You shoulda bought a Colt! :razz: (completely joking, folks, don't start flaming)