If you’re a proud owner of a Remington 700, you’ll know it’s a top-notch firearm that needs proper care. Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain its performance and longevity. It’s not just about wiping it down with a cloth; there’s a whole process to it.
In this article, I’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of cleaning a Remington 700. We’ll cover everything from the essential tools you’ll need, to the nitty-gritty of getting your gun squeaky clean. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’ll find this guide handy.
Tools Needed for Cleaning a Remington 700
Now we’re getting to the nitty-gritty – What are the essential tools you’d need to get your Remington 700 squeaky clean? Let’s take a closer look.
Cleaning Rod and Brush: One of the most important tools you’ll need is a cleaning rod long enough to reach the full length of your rifle’s barrel. Attach a brush to dislodge any stubborn particles of gunpowder or debris. Ensure your brush matches your gun caliber for optimal cleaning.
Bore Snake: A Bore snake, while not absolutely necessary, can be very helpful. It pulls through the barrel of your gun, removing any loose debris or dust that may have otherwise been missed.
Gun Cleaning Solvent and Oil: When it comes to cleaning your Remington 700, using a proper gun cleaning solvent is key. This ensures that each component gets thoroughly clean and prevents harmful buildup. After cleaning, oil is necessary for lubrication, protecting your gun from corrosion and keeping it working smoothly.
Cleaning Patches and Jags: Cleaning patches and jags work together. The jag is attached to your cleaning rod and holds the patch. Through it, you push solvent-soaked patches down the barrel to clean the inside thoroughly.
Gun Mat: This might not seem like an essential aspect of cleaning your gun, but trust me – having a quality gun mat can save you a lot of headaches. It gives you a dedicated, clean surface to work on.
With these tools in hand, you’re ready to get started on the cleaning process. Remember, regular cleaning keeps your Remington 700 running smoothly and extends its life significantly. Now, let’s move on to the detailed cleaning instructions.
Preparing Your Work Area
Before we delve into the actual cleaning process, it’s crucial to prepare your workspace properly. The area in which you’re going to disassemble and clean your Remington 700 can influence the entire process. I’d recommend going for a spacious, clear, and well-lit table. These factors can greatly aid in visually locating and wiping away any residue or contaminants.
One critical element that can keep your work area organized is a gun mat. Using a mat specifically designed for gun cleaning will create an ideal space not only for keeping parts secure, but also for absorbing any oil or solvent spills. Moreover, these mats can provide a visual aid, indicating where each part should be placed, ensuring nothing gets misplaced during the cleaning process.
As you’re getting your workspace ready, remember these guidelines:
- Set aside a dedicated spot for each tool: cleaning rod and brush, bore snake, solvent, oil, patches, and jags
- Keep your workspace clean and clutter-free. You want to give full attention to your Remington 700 and the cleaning process
- Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area. Remember that oil and solvents can emit fumes; therefore, adequate ventilation is crucial.
Preparing an organized workspace can save you a lot of time and prevent small parts from disappearing into the abyss of a cluttered table. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to carefully disassemble your Remington 700, and how keeping a tidy workspace can aid in this. The proper tools, good lighting, and a neat workspace can mean the difference between an efficient cleaning process and a long, drawn-out ordeal.
Safety Precautions to Keep in Mind
Safety should always be your number one priority when cleaning firearms like the Remington 700. Let’s delve into some crucial safety measures to take for an optimal cleaning process.
First and foremost, always ensure the firearm is unloaded before starting the cleaning process. This can’t be stressed enough. Fact is, a significant number of firearm accidents occur because the weapon was presumed to be unloaded. Err on the side of caution and double-check.
Gloves and eye protection should be part of your cleaning arsenal. They’re especially important when dealing with harsh cleaning solvents that can irritate skin or potentially harm your eyes.
Proper ventilation is another factor that can’t be overlooked. You’re dealing with chemicals that can produce harmful fumes. Make it a point to clean your firearm in a well-ventilated area. If you can’t ensure proper ventilation, then it’s advisable to use respirators or masks.
Another safety tip is to never force any parts while disassembling the Remington 700. Forcing parts can lead to breakage, which can be dangerous when firing the weapon. In some cases, spare parts may be difficult to find, and forcing can potentially void your warranty.
Finally, be conscious of your surroundings. Keep children and pets away during the cleaning process. Accidental exposure to cleaning chemicals or small gun parts can pose hazards. Taking these precautions helps ensure a safe and effective cleaning process.
The next part will guide you through the detailed steps of disassembling the Remington 700. Being attentive to these safety precautions not only provides a safer cleaning procedure but also ensures a smoother disassembly process.
Disassembling the Remington 700
Let’s dive into disassembling the Remington 700 firearm. Understanding the disassembly process is crucial for a thorough cleaning.
The first step in taking apart your Remington 700 is engaging the safety. It’s on the right side of the rear bolt. With the safety in place, you can then open the bolt and examine the chamber. It’s essential to ensure your firearm is completely unloaded before continuing with the disassembly process.
Next, you’ll want to remove the bolt. Lift the bolt handle until it’s standing straight up. On the right side of the receiver, you’ll find a small, round button. Press this while pulling the bolt all the way back. This will release the bolt and allow you to remove it from the rifle. It’s a straightforward process, but be cautious not to jerk or force anything.
Following the removal of the bolt, it’s time to separate the barreled action from the stock. You’ll find two screws on the bottom of the stock. The rear screw is shorter and should be taken out first. Once both screws have been removed, you can gently lift the barreled action from the stock.
Throughout this process, remember to handle all parts gently and keep them organized. Proper disassembly leads to a more effective cleaning process, and it can also extend the lifespan of your Remington 700.
In the next section, I’ll be guiding you through the cleaning process, step-by-step. From understanding the right solvents and lubricants to use, to reassembling your rifle, we’ll ensure your Remington 700 is as clean as a whistle, and ready for those shooting range days or hunting trips.
Cleaning the Barrel
Once you’ve disassembled your Remington 700, the barrel becomes your main area of focus. This is the heart of your firearm and, as such, demands a thorough, high-quality cleaning. So, let’s jump straight into it.
First, you’ll want to employ the use of a bore brush. Select a bore brush that matches your firearm’s caliber, ensuring proper fit. Gently insert this brush into the barrel’s end – the breech – and push it forward. Avoid entering from the muzzle as it may cause damage. Your goal is to scrub it enough to loosen any built-up residue or fouling, but not overly so to avoid potential harm to your barrel.
Next up is the solvent. Here’s where a high-quality gun-cleaning solvent becomes crucial, so don’t skimp. Apply a generous amount of your chosen solvent to a clean patch and attach it to the cleaning rod. Run the soaked patch through the barrel several times. The solvent helps in breaking down any remaining deposits. Give it some time – you’ll want to allow the solvent to sit in the barrel for a few minutes before moving onto the next step.
While your barrel’s soaking in solvent, turn your attention to the bolt. Using a small brush, gently clean around the bolt and in the lugs. Remember, cleaning your Remington 700 doesn’t mean focusing on the barrel alone. It’s about thoroughly cleaning each part.
Back to the barrel. After giving the solvent enough time to work its magic, it’s time to run dry patches through it. Keep doing this until a patch comes out clean. This lets you know all fouling has been successfully removed.
Don’t stop here, though. There’s more to be done in our mission to effectively clean our Remington 700. Lubricating the firearm is up next, which is another crucial aspect of the cleaning process. It’s vital to understand that simply cleaning your firearm isn’t enough to maintain its longevity, but maintaining proper lubrication is equally important. We’ll dive into that next, showing step-by-step how it’s done right.
Cleaning the Bolt
After thoroughly scrubbing the barrel of your Remington 700, it’s time to shift the focus to the cleanliness of your bolt. The bolt’s maintenance plays an equally vital role in maintaining the firearm’s overall performance. Therefore, it’s critical to ensure the bolt is impeccably clean and devoid of any grimy build-up.
To start cleaning the bolt, disassemble the bolt. However, don’t rush through this process. It’s important to handle the parts carefully and remember where each piece fits. Here’s a step by step guide to doing it right.
- Take out the firing pin assembly.
- Unscrew the bolt shroud from the bolt body.
- Remove the bolt handle.
Once you’ve sufficiently dismantled the bolt, I suggest using high-quality gun-cleaning solvent to wash off the residues and deposits. Apply the solvent evenly all over the bolt’s surface. You can use a cloth or a brush to rub the solvent in. If you come across any stubborn deposits, they might need a second round of solvent treatment, so don’t shy away.
After treating the bolt with the solvent, rinse it clean with a jet of fresh water. Make sure it’s completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
We’ll shift the focus towards ensuring proper lubrication for the bolt. Following our discussion on cleaning the barrel and the bolt, I’ll provide detailed instructions on how to go about lubricating the Remington 700. Be attentive because lubrication is one of the key steps to keeping your firearm operating smoothly.
Cleaning the Action and Trigger Assembly
In the meticulous world of gun maintenance, we’ve braved the bolt cleaning process, now it’s time to dive into another critical area – the action and trigger assembly. Armed with the knowledge that cleanliness spells accuracy, I’ll walk you through the steps of cleaning the action and trigger assembly of your Remington 700. It’s crucial to pay attention to every small detail, for your firearm’s best performance lies in these often overlooked areas.
First off, unlatch the floor plate and remove the internal magazine. This will expose your action, making it easy to reach with your gun cleaning solvents. Make sure you get a non-corrosive solvent, as it’s more effective and safe for your firearm.
Next up, it’s time to put my most recommended solvent to use. We’re looking at breaking down and scrubbing away any grime or powder residue that has accumulated. Using a cleaning patch soaked in solvent, thoroughly scrub the interior of your action. Sweep away the loose residue with a dry patch before you proceed.
Let’s turn our attention to the trigger assembly. It’s an area that can easily gather grime, impacting its performance. Spray a generous amount of your trusty solvent into this area. Remember, there’s no harm in overspraying, but being stingy with your solvent might leave behind grimy layers.
Safety is paramount, so ensure the sear and other small components are rust-free and spotless. Use a small brush to remove any stubborn grime stuck on the components. You can rinse them with water, ensuring they’re thoroughly dry before reassembly.
Once you’ve cleaned the action and trigger assembly following the steps I outlined, your Remington 700 is well on its way to being reintroduced to the firing range again. But we’re not done yet, next up, “Lubricating Your Remington 700″…
Cleaning the Stock and Exterior
After cleaning the action and trigger assembly, let’s turn our attention to the stock and exterior of your Remington 700. Remember, it’s not all about what’s under the hood. The exterior plays a pivotal role in the overall performance and longevity of the firearm.
When it comes to the stock and exterior, a gentle approach is necessary. You don’t want to scratch or damage the finish. I’ll advise you to use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with a little bit of gun cleaner. Wipe all surfaces to remove dust, grime, and oils. Be sure to get into all the nooks, crannies, and crevices.
For the stock, if it’s wooden, you’ll want to take some extra precautions. Water and wood don’t mix well. Avoid soaking the wood in cleaner. Instead, use a slightly damp cloth. After you’ve cleaned the stock with the cloth, dry it off immediately to prevent any unnecessary moisture absorption.
While cleaning, keep a keen eye out for signs of cracks or damage. These could exacerbate if left unnoticed. Spot these early, and you can take preventive measures.
It’s time to lubricate the exterior parts. Apply a thin layer of quality gun oil on all metal surfaces. This step is crucial for protection against rust and corrosion. Be sure not to overdo it, though! An over-lubricated gun can attract dust and other particles, which can lead to a buildup of grime.
Using a silicone-treated gun cloth can bring out a professional shine on your firearm and add a layer of protection. Just remember, it’s about preservation, not making it glossy for a cover photo.
Moving on, after we have our Remington 700 clean and shining, we’ll learn how to properly store it. This not only helps maintain its cleanliness but also ensure its longevity.
Lubrication and Reassembly
After a thorough cleaning, it’s time to get into the critical stage – lubrication and reassembly of your Remington 700. Proper lubrication is the cornerstone of any firearms maintenance routine, ensuring that all moving parts function smoothly.
Start by identifying the primary points of contact where metal meets metal. These areas are where friction occurs, and they require adequate lubrication to prevent wear and tear. On the Remington 700, these points typically include the bolt, the trigger assembly, as well as the action. Apply a thin layer of gun oil using a soft cloth or a brush. Remember, less is more when it comes to lubrication. While it’s essential to cover all points of contact, avoid using excessive oil as it might attract dust and grime, hindering the firearm’s performance.
With lubrication handled, we delve into the reassembly process. Begin by replacing the bolt back into the action. Make sure it’s moving smoothly and lock it in place. Following this, reassemble the barreled action back into the stock. Be cautious here – align it correctly and ensure it’s securely fitted. Tighten the action screws with care, not overdoing it. Remember, this isn’t a strength test, it’s a precision task.
Finally, check the functional integrity of your Remington 700. Operate the bolt, dry fire the rifle, and inspect every part you’ve worked on. It’s critical to ensure that everything works as intended after the cleanup and maintenance. Also, consider going for a test fire at your local shooting range, ensuring that the rifle functions smoothly and precisely.
Please note that the reassembly might require some practice if you’re new to this. Don’t be intimidated. Breathe, take your time, and you’ll get the hang of it. In the next segment, we’ll explore the proper storage techniques for your cleaned and serviced Remington 700.
Storing Your Cleaned Remington 700
Once you’ve serviced your Remington 700, it’s crucial to store it properly. Suitable storage can extend the life of your firearm and keep it in top-notch condition.
Let’s delve into the specifics of storing a cleaned Remington 700.
Firstly, do not store your gun in leather or foam-lined cases for extended periods. These materials can absorb and hold moisture, promoting rust and corrosion of the metal parts. Instead, consider using a silicone-treated gun sock or a specialized storage-case designed to prevent rust.
The location you choose for storage also matters. Avoid places with drastic temperature changes as this can result in condensation and ultimately, rust. A cool, dry, and dark environment is the best choice. Keep the firearm off the ground where it’s exposed to damp and cold.
If long-term storage is on the table, it’s wise to invest in a high-quality gun safe. This not only deters theft but also offers an optimal environment for your cleaned and serviced Remington 700.
Additionally, form a habit of regular maintenance checks. Even if the firearm isn’t in use, inspect it at least every 3 to 6 months. This allows you to catch and deal with budding issues before they escalate. Check for signs of moisture, wear, and tear.
The Remington 700, like any other firearm, demands a certain level of care. By servicing, correctly lubricating, and storing your gun, you’re giving it the best chance at a long, functional existence.
As we march on with our detailed guide, we’ll next discuss the importance of using quality ammunition in your Remington 700.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Cleaning your Remington 700 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools and a little patience, you’ll have your firearm functioning smoothly in no time. Remember, lubrication is key to a well-operating firearm. Don’t overlook the need for a thin layer of gun oil at all points of contact.
Reassembling your firearm with care is equally important. A misaligned bolt or action can cause unnecessary wear and tear. After reassembly, always check the functional integrity of your firearm. A test fire at a shooting range is a great way to do this.
Proper storage is the final step to maintaining your Remington 700. Avoid leather or foam-lined cases and invest in a high-quality gun safe for long-term storage. Regular maintenance checks are crucial to ensure your firearm’s longevity.
Stay tuned for our next segment where we’ll delve into the importance of using quality ammunition with your Remington 700. Happy shooting!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is proper lubrication important for a Remington 700 firearm?
Proper lubrication is important for a Remington 700 firearm to ensure smooth functioning of all moving parts. It reduces friction, wear, and tear, and helps to prevent malfunctions and damage to the firearm.
2. How do I identify the points of contact that require lubrication?
To identify the points of contact that require lubrication, refer to the firearm’s user manual or schematic. These resources will provide detailed diagrams and descriptions of the specific areas that need to be lubricated.
3. What type of lubricant should I use for a Remington 700 firearm?
It is recommended to use a high-quality gun oil specifically designed for firearms. Avoid using household oils or lubricants, as they may cause damage to the firearm’s components.
4. How should I apply the lubricant to the firearm?
Apply a thin layer of gun oil to the points of contact that require lubrication. Use a clean cloth or a specialized applicator to ensure even distribution of the lubricant.
5. How do I reassemble the bolt and action into the stock?
When reassembling the bolt and action into the stock, ensure proper alignment and a secure fitting. Follow the instructions provided in the firearm’s user manual, taking care to follow the specific steps and sequences.
6. What should I do after cleaning and reassembling the Remington 700 firearm?
After cleaning and reassembling the Remington 700 firearm, check its functional integrity by conducting a thorough inspection. This includes checking for any loose screws or parts and ensuring the action cycles smoothly. It is recommended to take the firearm to a shooting range for a test fire to ensure optimal performance.
7. How should I store a cleaned Remington 700 firearm?
To properly store a cleaned Remington 700 firearm, avoid using leather or foam-lined cases, as they can trap moisture and promote rust. Choose a suitable storage location that is dry and free from humidity. Consider investing in a high-quality gun safe for long-term storage. It’s also important to conduct regular maintenance checks to ensure the firearm stays in good condition.
8. What will the next segment of the article focus on?
The next segment of the article will focus on the importance of using quality ammunition in a Remington 700 firearm. It will discuss the impact of ammunition on accuracy and performance, and provide recommendations for selecting and storing ammunition to maximize the firearm’s potential.
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