If you’re like me, you know that maintaining your Steyr AUG is essential for its longevity and optimal performance. In this guide, I’ll take you through the step-by-step process of cleaning your Steyr AUG. We’ll cover everything from disassembly to proper cleaning techniques, ensuring your firearm stays in top shape.
Disassembly of the Steyr AUG
Let’s dive into the disassembly process. Always remember, safety is paramount; ensure the firearm is unloaded before starting.
Firstly, let’s remove the barrel. Hold the rifle comfortably, with your hand resting beneath the front sling swivel. You’ll then need to depress the barrel release button. Now, twist the barrel 180 degrees clockwise. You should be able to pull it free from the receiver.
Next, we’ll disassemble the receiver; this is a bit intricate when compared to other firearms. First, push the knurled button at the rear of the receiver. At the same time, pull up at the rear of the butt plate. Now, the butt plate and the stock should slide out together. Afterward, you can remove the trigger mechanism.
To do so, push the cross pin located above the trigger guard towards the right side of the firearm. Pull the trigger mechanism downward to separate it from the stock.
The subsequent step involves removing the bolt and carrier. To do so, simply pull the charging handle to the rear, and the bolt group will glide out of the back of the receiver.
Lastly for our disassembly, we have to inspect the gas cylinder and piston. Rotating the gas plug allows you to remove the cylinder. Then, you’ll need to push the gas piston out from the back to the front, like you’re loading a round into the chamber.
Within a brief period, you’ve successfully disassembled your Steyr AUG. You’re now ready to proceed with the cleaning. Like I always say, reassuring cleanliness boosts your firearm’s longevity and performance. Given this, I recommend a thorough cleaning process using quality solvents and lubes.
Gathering the Necessary Cleaning Supplies
Before you dive deep into the disassembly and cleaning of the Steyr AUG, make it your mission to gather all the necessary cleaning supplies. You wouldn’t start a bake without having all the ingredients ready, right? Similarly, you’ll want to ensure you have all the tools and products required for a successful gun cleaning.
Let’s delve into the specific supplies you’ll need.
- Gun cleaning solvent: This is specifically designed to remove fouling from gun barrels. The market offers many variants but go for the one which suits your needs and is user-friendly.
- Gun lubricant: It reduces friction between the gun’s parts and protects it against wear and tear. The best gun lubes aren’t always the most expensive. It’s up to you to choose what works for your budget and your firearm.
- Cleaning rod with bore brushes and patches: You’ll need these to clean off the residues on the surfaces inside of the barrel. Choose a cleaning rod that’s sturdy yet delicate on your gun’s barrel. Bore brushes help in scraping off stubborn residues, while patches are used for applying solvent and removing loosened fouling.
- A good quality gun cleaning mat: This isn’t a must-have, but it’s beneficial to have one. It’ll protect your table or workspace from the spilled solvent, lubricant or gunk coming out of your firearm.
- Cleaning picks and brushes: They are handy for cleaning hard-to-reach areas of the AUG. Make sure to get nylon brushes as they are less likely to scratch the gun’s surface compared to their metal counterparts.
Already possessing all the necessary cleaning supplies ensures you’re all set for the task ahead. Remember, proper and regular maintenance of your firearm forms the bedrock of its longevity and optimal performance. Now that you’ve got your toolkit ready, we’re about to embark on the actual cleaning process of a Steyr AUG. So, gear up.
Cleaning the Barrel of the Steyr AUG
Cleaning the barrel is a crucial part of maintaining your Steyr AUG and it’s the step where you’ll need to use your gun cleaning solvent, bore brushes, cleaning rod, and patches.
First Step: Apply Solvent
Let’s start with applying the gun cleaning solvent. This product is responsible for breaking down the residue left by firing the weapon. Begin by attaching the bore brush to the cleaning rod. Apply a sufficient amount of cleaning solvent to the brush. Once it’s ready, insert the rod into the barrel, starting from the end where the bullet exits. Push the rod back and forth through the length of the barrel. Do this several times to ensure the solvent penetrates the fouling inside.
Second Step: Remove the Solvent
Right after applying the solvent, it’s time to remove it along with any lingering residue. For this, you’ll use patches. Attach a fresh patch to your cleaning rod and push it through the barrel, just like you did with the bore brush. The patch should come out dirty. Replace it with a new one and repeat this process until you get a clean patch.
Third Step: Lubricate the Barrel
After ensuring that the barrel is as clean as we can get it, lubricating it is next on the list. Applying gun lubricant helps to protect the barrel’s interior from rust and wear. Use a fresh patch, apply some lubricant, and run it through the barrel. Remember, we’re aiming for a thin coating, so there’s no need for excess.
There you have it – you’ve now learned how to properly clean the barrel of your Steyr AUG. But there is more, the next part of this guide will cover how to clean and lubricate other components of Steyr AUG too, so sit tight and continue reading.
Cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group
Next up in the cleaning regimen, we’ll turn our attention to the bolt carrier group. This crucial component endures regular friction during firing, and an unkempt bolt carrier could eventually result in malfunctions. So, maintaining a clean bolt carrier group is key.
Start by separating the bolt from the carrier. This requires pushing the pin out of the assembly. I’d recommend using a specialized gun disassembly tool for this purpose; it helps to avoid slipping and unintentionally causing damage.
With the bolt removed, look for the cleaning solvent in your kit. Apply this solvent generously on the bolt and carrier. The solvent will break down the accumulated residues, ensuring each part gets a meticulous clean. Gun cleaning solvents are effective yet gentle on the parts, allowing for a deep clean without causing corrosion.
Pay extra attention to the bolt face; it’s often the grimiest part of the bolt carrier group. I rely on a nylon brush to scrub the bolt face clean — it’s highly effective and won’t scrape the metal surface.
With the soiling dissolved by the solvent, let’s wipe it down. A clean, lint-free cloth is optimum for this purpose. Also, to reach into smaller crevices and holes, cleaning picks and brushes work wonders.
Next, we must lubricate the bolt and carrier. Using a high-quality gun lubricant, generously lubricate all the parts, especially the areas of the bolt that directly engage with the carrier. Ensure that all surfaces are lightly coated but not soaking in the lubricant.
Lastly, before reassembling the bolt carrier group, inspect the parts for any signs of wear or damage. Regular cleaning offers an excellent opportunity to catch minor issues before they escalate into major ones. Remember, it’s not just about cleaning, but ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the Steyr AUG.
Lubricating the Steyr AUG
After you’ve cleaned your Steyr AUG thoroughly, the next important step is lubrication. Lubricating your firearm isn’t just an optional step that’s nice to have, it’s critically essential. The lubrication process ensures that parts keep moving smoothly, reduces friction, prevents excessive wear and tear, and extends the firearm’s lifespan.
When it comes to lubricating the Steyr AUG, gun-grade lubricant is your friend. Don’t skimp on this part of the process; a good-quality lubricant is worth its weight in gold.
To begin, get your gun-grade lubricant and place a small quantity on a fingertip. Apply it lightly to the bolt and bolt carrier, focusing especially on contact surfaces. They’re the areas where the bolt and the carrier interact with other components.
Next, lightly apply lubricant to the hammer and trigger mechanisms. Be careful here: applying too much lubricant can collect debris and affect functionality. A thin layer’s all you need. It’s easy to forget the return springs, but they deserve attention too. Lightly oil them to prevent unnecessary wear and rust occurrence.
Finally, consider the external parts of your Steyr AUG. Areas like the safety and external bolt catch can benefit from a light coat of oil. This light coat prevents rust and ensures that these parts move smoothly.
A word of caution: avoid over-lubricating your Steyr AUG. It’s easy to think that if a little is good, a lot will be better, but that’s not always the case with firearm lubrication. Excess oil can attract dust and grime, impeding functionality and even causing your firearm to malfunction.
The key to a successful lubrication is being thorough and thoughtful. Every component of your Steyr AUG plays a crucial role, and caring for them ensures they’ll do their job when needed. Regular lubrication, just like cleaning, is a vital part of maintaining your firearm’s longevity and optimal performance.
Moving on, let’s take a look at how we can reassemble the Steyr AUG after the lubrication process.
Proper Storage and Maintenance of the Steyr AUG
After going through the painstaking process of cleaning and lubricating your Steyr AUG, it’s now time to talk about proper storage and maintenance. This is an essential step that needs to be taken seriously. Why? Because the longevity, performance, and safety of your firearm hinge on how you store and maintain it after cleaning.
Storing your firearm correctly extends its lifespan and keeps it ready for use. So, what’s the ideal way to store your Steyr AUG? Aim for a cool, dry place safe from drastic temperature changes. Avoid damp or humid areas as these conditions are disastrous for metal parts, leading to rust and corrosion. Gun safes or locked gun cabinets are top choices for many gun enthusiasts.
Additionally, never store your Steyr AUGloaded. Even after cleaning, I advocate for firing the weapon in a safe direction to ensure it’s not loaded. It both guarantees your safety and that of others around you.
When it comes to maintenance, it’s not a once in a blue moon job. Your Steyr AUG will need regular care to remain scoff-free. This includes routine cleaning, lubricating, and inspections.
The basic rule is to clean your firearm after every use. Also environmentally induced wear such as exposure to moisture, dust, and heat calls for periodic cleaning, whether you’re using the gun or not.
Inspect your Steyr AUG regularly for signs of wear and tear, especially for parts like the bolt, bolt carrier, hammer, and trigger mechanisms. Address issues promptly to prevent small problems from turning into major defects. Moreover, replacing worn-out parts timely is key to preserving the perfect condition of your firearm.
In terms of maintenance protocol, remember not to over-lubricate, a mistake we’ve previously discussed. Adhere strictly to the lubrication guide to stop dirt and grime from being attracted to your gun.
Building a consistent cleaning, lubricating, and maintenance schedule will ensure your Steyr AUG stays in top-notch condition for longer. These practices, though seemingly trivial, significantly contribute to the performance and lifespan of your firearm. Not forgetting safety, the heart of owning and using any firearm.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Cleaning, lubricating, and maintaining your Steyr AUG isn’t as daunting as it might seem. It’s all about taking the right steps, at the right time, and with the right tools. Remember, safety first – always ensure your firearm is unloaded before you start. Lubrication plays a critical role in reducing friction and preventing wear and tear, but don’t overdo it. Excess oil can attract unwanted dust and grime. Regular cleaning and inspections are key to maintaining your firearm’s longevity and performance. And when storing, choose a cool, dry place like a gun safe or a locked gun cabinet. Never store your Steyr AUG loaded. By following these practices, you’re not just preserving your firearm, but also ensuring its optimal performance and safety. So go ahead, give your Steyr AUG the care it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is it important to ensure the firearm is unloaded before disassembling it for cleaning?
A: Ensuring the firearm is unloaded before disassembly is crucial for safety. It prevents accidental firing, reducing the risk of injury or damage.
Q: Why should I lubricate my Steyr AUG after cleaning?
A: Lubrication is essential for reducing friction, preventing wear and tear, and extending the lifespan of your firearm.
Q: Which parts of the Steyr AUG should be lubricated?
A: Apply gun-grade lubricant to the bolt, bolt carrier, hammer, trigger mechanisms, and external parts.
Q: Can over-lubrication be a problem?
A: Yes, over-lubrication can attract dust and grime, so it’s important to avoid excessive oiling.
Q: How should I store and maintain my Steyr AUG?
A: Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a gun safe or locked cabinet. Never store it loaded. Regular cleaning, lubricating, and inspections are crucial for optimal performance and longevity.
Q: What should I do if I notice signs of wear and tear?
A: Promptly address any signs of wear or damage and replace worn-out parts to maintain the condition of your firearm.
Q: How often should I clean and lubricate my Steyr AUG?
A: Regular cleaning and lubrication are recommended, but the frequency depends on the usage. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for best results.
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