The Ultimate Firearm Cleaning Routine: What Most Gun Owners Get Wrong
Think you're cleaning your firearm the right way? Think again. Discover the most common mistakes gun owners make and follow a proven cleaning routine that improves performance, prevents wear, and keeps your weapon ready for action. Expert tips and product recommendations included.
Ever wonder why your gun still jams or misfires even after a full cleaning session? Chances are, you're skipping a critical step — or worse, using the wrong products. As a combat veteran-owned company, Forsaken Industries is here to break down the cleaning myths and give you a reliable, field-tested routine to keep your firearms performing flawlessly.
Common Gun Cleaning Mistakes That Hurt Performance
1. Skipping the Carbon Buildup
Too many gun owners wipe down their firearm but leave carbon deposits inside the bolt carrier group, barrel lugs, or star chamber. This gunk builds up over time and kills reliability.
Fix: Use a dedicated carbon cleaner like Forsaken Industries’ Carbon Cleaner to break down stubborn residue.
2. Using the Wrong Products
WD-40 is not a gun cleaner. Neither are household oils. These products can gum up your weapon and attract dirt.
Fix: Choose a purpose-built CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant) formulated for firearm use.
3. Forgetting Your Optics and Small Parts
Optics fog, mounts loosen, and pins disappear — especially if you're not cleaning with a mat or using tools designed for precision.
Fix: Use an optics cleaner, swabs, and magnetic gun cleaning mat to keep track of tiny parts.
The Right Way to Clean Your Firearm – Step by Step
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
- Use a non-slip magnetic cleaning mat to organize tools and small parts.
- Unload and clear the firearm.
Step 2: Remove Carbon
- Spray Forsaken Industries Carbon Cleaner into the chamber, bolt, and high-fouling areas.
- Let it sit for 2–3 minutes.
- Use chamber brushes, swabs, and star pads for a deep clean.
Step 3: Lubricate with CLP
- Apply Forsaken Industries CLP to friction points (slide rails, bolt carrier group, barrel).
- Wipe excess. Leave a thin, protective layer.
- Wipe down the entire exterior of the firearm for corrosion protection.
Step 4: Function Check
- Reassemble the firearm.
- Cycle the action, check safety mechanisms, and dry fire to ensure proper function.
Why Our Cleaning Routine Works
At Forsaken Industries, we don’t just sell gun cleaning gear — we’ve used it in the most unforgiving environments on Earth. From military operations to civilian carry, our products are designed to protect, preserve, and perform.
Upgrade Your Routine with Forsaken Industries
Ready to stop guessing and start cleaning like a pro? Our CLP, Carbon Cleaner, Optics Cleaner, Cleaning Mats, and Precision Swabs are all designed to work together. Get the full system for peak performance.