AR exterior maintenance?

[28_days]

I've heard differing opinions about how one should care for the exterior of their AR. Some say that you can wipe it completely clean, some state that you should apply a light coat of CLP (or the like) with a paint brush and leave it, while others say that you should apply CLP, then wipe it clean with a t-shirt.

What's the general consensus? As I look at many of your pictures they look completely residue free. Which makes me wonder what steps I should take.

Thanks!

[ballsout]

just clean her out at least once a month. I usually rub Weapon Shield over my exterior with a patch. let it sit for a little bit and lightly rub an old t-shirt around it.

[MikeCLeonard]

Does the oil help maintain the anodizing because I don't think the aluminum is in much danger of rusting.

[Iraqgunz]

Not that I am aware of. I wipe the outside with a clean, dry cloth and a very light coat on the metal parts which can rust. My weapons at home are painted so it's not an issue. Over here wiping down the outside with CLP or the like is just creating a dust magnet.

Originally Posted by MikeCLeonard

Does the oil help maintain the anodizing because I don't think the aluminum is in much danger of rusting.

[Frens]

I just put a light coat on steel parts only

[GrumpyM4]

aluminum can corrode as well. while rare, it does happen, so i find that in more humid climates, it's best to wipe it down with something that has a preservative in it, and wipe off the excess, just like you should do with your steel parts.

In not so humid climates, it's not such of a big deal though. Occasional inspections shoud keep you informed as to the necessity of various cleaning schedules and whatnot. Adjust accordingly.

[citizensoldier16]

I'm sure everyone has their preference, but for all my guns, I use a silicone cloth and wipe the exterior. This removes fingerprints and applies a protective coating. They're available at your local sporting goods store for not too much $.

[markm]

I don't do anything. In the past if the rifle has become extremely dusty, I'll hose it off in the grass before cleaning the internals. But I don't do anything near salt water where rust could accumulate on the steel parts. Regular rain has never caused any rusting. so...

[Eric]

Since I live/work in the great Pac NW (aka the Pacific NorthWet), I ensure that all steel parts get a light coat of CLP. Aluminum parts get wiped dry.

[Harv]

DemiGod

I don't do anything.

Ditto,

Occasionally wipe it down with a rag, that's it..I spend no time cleaning the exterior.

[MX5]

On working guns I don't go to any great lengths on the exterior. After oiling the requisite internals, any clean oil remaining on my hands gets wiped on a rag & I'll lightly go over the exterior just to clean-up any residue. That's about it.

[Heavy Metal]

Occasionaly wipe the outside.