Originally Posted by
mkmckinley
The SCAR is a little easier. While deployed I only cleaned the piston once every couple weeks or so and I'm not convinced it needed it even then. This is pure observation on my part but it seems like carbon buildup on the piston reaches equilibrium and doesn't require much in the way of maintenance. As part of T&E before we deployed I didn't clean the SCAR for several months while doing a lot of training and shooting. Not a hiccup. While deployed daily maintenance was a matter of pulling the BCG, wiping off the dust, wiping out the upper, lubing, and that was about it. It's important to note that no oil, lube etc should be put on the piston or into the gas block. That part of the rifle is designed to be run dry.