Q&A for How to Maintain a Shotgun

Return to Full Article

Coming soon

Add New Question

Question

How often should I clean a shotgun?

Mark Schneider
Firearms Instructor
Mark Schneider is a Firearms Instructor based in Denver, Colorado. His journey into the world of firearms, novice gunsmithing, shooting, and tactics began nearly two decades ago. Over the course of his career, he has amassed over 18 years of firearms instruction experience and 10 years of security experience, predominantly in the realm of armed uniformed security. Mark has run a licensed security company and holds a license as an armed security guard with the City & County of Denver. Mark holds NRA certifications and has held multiple roles, including NRA Certified Pistol Instructor, NRA Inside The Home Protection Instructor, NRA Outside The Home Protection Instructor, NRA Refuse to Be a Victim Instructor, and NRA Chief Range Safety Officer. Mark’s extensive training history includes a wide array of tactical and security courses, encompassing advanced pistol, rifle, and shotgun training, close-quarter combat, ambushing tactics, and more.

Mark Schneider

Firearms Instructor

Expert Answer

Regular maintenance is essential. If your shotgun has been sitting in a safe for years without use, it is advisable to perform a yearly cleaning, known as field stripping. This involves disassembling the major components, such as the magazine, and unscrewing parts like the shotgun loading mechanism. Cleaning firearms has become more straightforward, especially with the prevalence of non-corrosive ammunition. If you use your shotgun regularly, it is recommended to clean it after each session. Utilizing tools like bore snakes simplifies the process—running one down the barrel clears out debris from the action area. Following the manufacturer's manual for cleaning and lubrication is crucial, as they provide specific instructions tailored to the firearm model, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Reading and adhering to the manufacturer's guidelines is a key practice for maintaining and cleaning shotguns or any other firearms.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

I have a 20ga Beretta that will not pick up loaded shells into barrel. Are there any ideas to fix it?

Community Answer

With a price tag like that, you should take it to a shop. You want to make sure that you do not damage a quality gun like that.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 4 Helpful 4
Question

What do I use if I haven't got oil or a lint-free cloth?

Shrek33sander

Community Answer

Gun oil isn't that expensive, so try to get some; if you can't, use some 3-in-1 oil or WD-40. Paper towels are good substitutes for a cloth.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 15 Helpful 7
Question

How do I clean a .410 break-action shotgun?

Mike Prickett

Community Answer

To clean a .410 break-action shotgun, ensure it's unloaded by checking the chamber. Disassemble the shotgun by breaking it open and removing the barrel. Clean the barrel using a bore brush and solvent, scrubbing from the breech to the muzzle. Wipe the barrel with a clean patch to remove residue. Clean other parts (receiver, hinge) with a cloth and solvent. Lubricate moving parts lightly to prevent rust. Reassemble the shotgun and wipe it down with a clean cloth.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Question

Should I maintain a shotgun even if it's not being fired? How often should this be done?

Joe MacFarlane

Community Answer

Maintain it about once per year by lightly coating it with oil and checking for rust, which should be treated immediately if found.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0