AR cleaning kit?

[onebohemian]

My new AR should be here within the week. I've been all over AR15, M4, and the other AR related boards for months. Still haven't bought a cleaning kit. I'm of the mindset that manufacturer's "cleaning kits" are typically filled with stuff that I'm not going to use. I've got the basics for my other guns, but because this is my first AR, I'm wondering whether I should actually buy a kit this time. Something with a solid cleaning rod, etc. My other thought is simply to go to Streichers tomorrow -- or better yet use my C&R license through Brownells or Midway -- to order some chamber brushes and then use the items I currently use to clean my .22s instead of buying an entire kit.

Your thoughts on the very basics I have to have to clean this new gun?

Thanks,

[Pat]

Since their arrival on the gun cleaning scene, Bore Snakes have really proven themselves to be the perfect barrel cleaning tool.

They are especially great for range work, where you can just drop a snake down the barrel after your regular 5 shot string, send start from fresh!

Downside: I don't have any stock in the company...

[Aceq2jot]

The kit they send is ok you just need some Q tips with the Bore snake. If you decided to use the rods rembember pull not push. I had the hardest time cleaning mine for the first time as no one told me to pull the rod through not push. But mind you i had never had a rifle before :D:D:D:D:D:D:D

[mnglocker]

Get a bore-snake, basic nylon brush, phosphor bronze brush, q-tips, chamber brush, and a reciever brush and you'll be super set up, I can make my AR's look snaking new every time.

[EJSANDSTROM]

FWIW I have herd the Otis cleaning kits are top notch. A little expencive tho. I use the Cabela's every caliber kits. It works but I just got a Hoppes bore snake but I havent used it yet.

[Fast351]

I use a 1 piece coated Dewey rod for the barrel. Use bronze/brass core brushes only (no steel core).

Then use a chamber brush specifically designed for an AR15 for the chamber. Only way to really effectively clean the chamber lugs. Everything else can be cleaned with your basic Hoppes 9/toothbrush method.

Same method as cleaning any other rifle, just a few more parts to clean.

[onebohemian]

I use a 1 piece coated Dewey rod for the barrel. Use bronze/brass core brushes only (no steel core). Then use a chamber brush specifically designed for an AR15 for the chamber. Only way to really effectively clean the chamber lugs. Everything else can be cleaned with your basic Hoppes 9/toothbrush method.

Thanks. I'm just going to do this. Have to place an order through Midway today for a holster because Streichers didn't have it in stock, so I plan to add the Dewey 1 piece and a couple brushes.

[Pezhead]

Check out the DPMS catalog. It has so many things I just happen to need.

[Aceq2jot]

I was thinking of getting some of these to save money on the q tips

http://www.cjweapons.com/aspcart45/defa ... 06&start=1

But one of the Guys i work with, is a Marine Reserve and he told me to just get some surgical Q-tips as they are longer
and easier to swing around.

[hammAR]

Try this place - they have cotton, synthetic, and sponge:

http://www.absolutesci.com/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=1839&cat=Cotton+Tip