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Whether you own just a single gun or have a vast collection, you shoot targets just for fun or are an avid hunter, the importance of firearm maintenance cannot be understated. Although the specific procedure can be slightly different for various types of guns, many of the general principles remain the same across the board. Here's what you need to know to keep your gun collection looking and working its best throughout the years: 

Benefits of Regular Cleaning and Maintenance 

One of the key reasons to keep your guns as clean as possible is that it is one of the primary factors in the accuracy and precision of your firearms. Even just tiny amounts of dirt and debris in the barrel or firing mechanisms can change the trajectory of the bullet. Even minuscule changes can be magnified over greater shooting distances. In addition to preserving the accuracy, regular maintenance is also necessary to prevent rust or other corrosion from ruining your firearms over time. As you inspect and clean your guns, you'll be alerted to any cracks or other damage so that you'll know when internal parts need to be repaired or replaced. This will prevent failures or misfires in the future. 

What You'll Need 

While you will need some specific cleaning products for particular types of guns, certain items should always be in your cleaning kit, regardless of the type of firearm. When you fire a gun, gas and residue are left behind. Over time, these can build up and cause damage to your firearm, so you'll need to have field wipes to remove the residue and lubricate the moving parts of the gun. You'll also want to have a bore snake for cleaning down the barrel. After you have completed the cleaning process, you'll want to use a rust protection product to prevent corrosion from forming. 

Helpful Tips and Tricks 

You don't necessarily need to take the entire gun apart down to the last screw. In most cases, taking apart just the main components will give you access to all the areas you'll need to clean. Take your time as you clean and work systematically from one end of the firearm to the other. This will ensure that you do not miss any important components. When using oil, be careful not to overdo it, as this can interfere with the operation of your gun in the future. 

Here at Norton Sporting Goods, we have everything you need to keep your guns in top working order. We take great pride in the quality of our products and will do everything we can to help you maintain the quality of your firearms. Whenever you are cleaning your guns, safety should be your top priority. Don't hesitate to ask any of our associates if you are unsure about how to clean or store your guns safely.