How To Clean Live Ammo

How to Clean Live Ammunition: A Comprehensive Guide

It's crucial to understand that cleaning live ammunition is generally not recommended. Improper cleaning can compromise the integrity of the cartridge, potentially leading to dangerous malfunctions during firing. This can result in injury or damage to your firearm. The best way to keep your ammunition in good condition is to store it properly in a cool, dry, and secure location, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

However, there are very limited circumstances where cleaning might be considered. This usually involves removing surface contaminants like dirt or rust that could affect the casing or interfere with feeding. Even then, extreme caution and specific knowledge are required. Proceed with extreme caution, and if you are unsure, consult a qualified firearms expert.

Understanding the Risks

Before delving into the rare instances where cleaning might be considered, let's emphasize the inherent risks:

• Damage to Primers: Cleaning solutions can damage the delicate primer, making the cartridge unreliable or potentially causing a misfire or dangerous premature detonation.
• Compromised Case Integrity: Abrasive cleaning methods can weaken the cartridge case, potentially leading to case failure during firing.
• Residue Buildup: While attempting to clean, you might inadvertently push contaminants further into the cartridge, making it even dirtier.
• Legal Ramifications: In some jurisdictions, altering ammunition in any way might be illegal. Always check local regulations before attempting any cleaning procedure.

When (and How) Might Cleaning Be Considered?

In extremely rare instances, you might encounter ammunition with superficial contamination. For example, if a box of ammunition was exposed to damp conditions and developed surface rust. Under no circumstances should you attempt to clean ammunition that shows signs of significant corrosion or damage.

If, and only if, you face extremely superficial contamination, you might consider the following (again, proceed with extreme caution and at your own risk):

Cleaning Method for Superficial Contamination

1. Visual Inspection: Thoroughly inspect each cartridge for damage or corrosion. Discard any that show signs of damage.
2. Gentle Cleaning: Use a very soft, dry cloth or brush to gently wipe away any loose dirt or debris from the cartridge case. Avoid applying any pressure that could damage the primer or case.
3. Air Drying: Allow the cartridges to air dry completely before storing them.

Important Considerations:

• Never use solvents or chemicals: Cleaning solutions can irrevocably damage the ammunition.
• Never use abrasive materials: Abrasive cleaning tools can weaken the cartridge case.
• Handle with care: Always handle ammunition with the utmost care.

Prevention is Key: Proper Ammunition Storage

Instead of focusing on cleaning, prioritize proper storage. This is the most effective way to maintain your ammunition's quality and safety:

• Cool and Dry Environment: Store ammunition in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Secure Storage: Store ammunition in a secure location, inaccessible to unauthorized individuals.
• Original Packaging: Whenever possible, store ammunition in its original packaging.
• Rotation: Rotate your ammunition stock regularly. Older ammunition should be used first.

By focusing on proper storage and avoiding unnecessary cleaning attempts, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage or injury associated with your ammunition. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out. The safety of yourself and others should always be your top priority.