Palmetto State Armory recently released a step-by-step guide showing shooters how to perform a basic cleaning on an AR-15 rifle. The walkthrough focuses on routine maintenance designed to keep the rifle running reliably between deep cleanings.
Recommended AR-15 Cleaning Schedule
PSA recommends:
- Basic cleaning every 500 rounds
- Deep cleaning every 1,000 to 1,500 rounds
The video focuses specifically on a light maintenance cleaning intended for regular upkeep rather than complete disassembly.
Tools Needed for Cleaning an AR-15
To complete a basic AR-15 cleaning, PSA recommends:
- Microfiber cleaning cloth
- Bore snake or barrel cleaning kit
- Firearm cleaner, Lubricant or gun oil
The demonstration used:
Disassembling the AR-15
The cleaning process begins by:
- Verifying the rifle is unloaded
- Separating the upper and lower receiver
- Removing the charging handle
- Removing the bolt carrier group
PSA notes that a deep cleaning of the lower receiver is unnecessary during routine maintenance cleanings.
Cleaning the Barrel and Upper Receiver
The video demonstrates using a bore snake to clean the barrel by:
- Applying cleaner ahead of the bore snake bristles
- Pulling the bore snake through the barrel several times
- Cleaning from the chamber toward the muzzle
PSA explains that bore snakes work well for light maintenance, while traditional cleaning rods and patches are better suited for deep cleaning sessions.
Cleaning the Bolt Carrier Group
The bolt carrier group receives the majority of the cleaning attention during the process.
PSA recommends:
- Spraying cleaner onto the BCG
- Allowing the cleaner to break down carbon buildup
- Wiping carbon deposits away with a microfiber cloth
- Paying close attention to the bolt face and contact surfaces
The video emphasizes that some carbon buildup is normal during light cleanings and does not require aggressive scraping every time.
Proper AR-15 Lubrication
One of the key points discussed is avoiding over-lubrication.
PSA explains that excessive oil can:
- attract dirt
- trap carbon
- and increase buildup over time
Instead, lubrication should focus primarily on:
- the four main bolt carrier contact rails
- and the bolt itself
Only a small amount of lubricant is needed to keep the AR-15 cycling reliably.
Reassembling the Rifle
After cleaning and lubrication:
- the charging handle is reinstalled
- followed by the bolt carrier group
- and the upper and lower receivers are reassembled.
PSA recommends performing a quick function check afterward to ensure the rifle cycles smoothly and operates correctly.
Final Thoughts
Routine maintenance plays a major role in long-term AR-15 reliability and performance. PSA’s guide demonstrates that basic cleaning can be completed quickly with minimal tools while helping reduce wear, fouling, and reliability issues between deep cleaning intervals.
