Safety is paramount when cleaning any firearm. Before beginning any maintenance on an M16 rifle, you must ensure the weapon is completely unloaded. First, remove the magazine by pressing the magazine release. Then, pull the charging handle back and visually inspect the chamber to confirm it is empty. This critical safety step prevents accidents and ensures safe handling throughout the cleaning process.
Proper cleaning requires the right tools and supplies. You will need a cleaning kit containing cleaning rods and bore brushes of the correct caliber. Essential chemicals include bore cleaner to remove fouling and CLP which serves as cleaner, lubricant, and protectant. You'll also need cleaning patches, cotton swabs for detailed work, clean rags for wiping surfaces, and protective gloves to keep your hands clean and safe from chemicals.
Field stripping disassembles the rifle into its main components for cleaning. Start by pushing out the takedown pin and pivot pin to separate the upper and lower receivers. Next, remove the bolt carrier group by pulling the charging handle back and lifting it out. Finally, remove the charging handle itself. This basic disassembly gives you access to all the critical parts that need regular cleaning and maintenance.
Now we clean the critical components. For the barrel, attach a bore brush to your cleaning rod and apply bore cleaner. Push the rod through the barrel from chamber to muzzle to avoid damaging the crown. Repeat several times, then follow with clean patches until they come out spotless. The bolt carrier group requires special attention - disassemble it and use brushes to scrub away carbon buildup from the bolt face, locking lugs, and carrier interior. This removes fouling that can cause malfunctions.
The final steps complete the maintenance process. Apply a thin layer of CLP lubricant to all friction points, especially the bolt carrier interior and bolt rings. Reassemble the rifle in reverse order of disassembly - insert the bolt carrier group, install the charging handle, and reconnect the upper and lower receivers with the pins. Always perform a function check to ensure proper operation of the safety, trigger, and charging handle. Proper lubrication and reassembly ensure reliable function and extend the rifle's service life.