Actually, some surfaces on weapons (depending on make and material of course) have so-called micro pores, or rather small pits. Especially barrels, but dependant on lining. Also, some finishes wil retain more oil than others.Quote:
Metal isn't porous.
Ever heard of a gun 'sweating'? That is residual oil and carbon coming out of these pores/pits after a few days. The G3 was notorious for this, and a lot of guys got really mad for failing inspections, when the gun was white-glove clean the day before, and there was dirt the next day for inspection, even if the gun just sat in the locker.
Anyways, this is the way I clean my rifle:
-Run a CLP covered patch through the barrel of my gun as soon as I am cleared off the range
-Disassemble weapon
-Cover piston in CLP and let it sit
-Use compressed air to blow away debris from upper and lower
-Wipe off visible carbon and dirt from inside the upper and lower with dry cleaning patches
-Disassemble BCG and wipe off the parts with a dry patch. Clean parts with a patch covered in CLP. Wipe off with dry patch, then lube each component before reassembling. I do not disassemble extractor every time.
-Clean lower with patches covered in CLP
-Clean upper with patches covered in CLP
-Put CLP on chamber brush and clean locking lugs and chamber. Wipe down with dry patch
-Wipe down charging handle with dry patch, clean with patch covered in CLP. Dry off and lube.
-Wipe down lower with dry patch, and then lube the following areas:
- Buffer and recoil spring
- Safety selector, both sides of lower
- Trigger group and springs
- Bolt catch
- Mag release
-Wipe down upper with dry patch, and then lube following areas:
- Forward assist
- Dust cover spring assembly
- Inside of upper
- Locking lugs
- Front sight
- Adjustable gas regulator (not disassembled every time)
-Wipe down piston rod, clean with patch covered in CLP, dry off and lube
-Remove carbon build up on piston with copper brush and CLP. Wipe off, and lube.
-Run a copper brush covered in CLP through bore a few times, use bore snake a few times, repeat with copper brush covered in CLP. Run a few patches through to get rid of excessive lubricant. Visually inspect.
I also visually inspect each part while cleaning it, looking for breaks or excessive wear.
The only lube I use is BreakFree CLP, although I am currently trying out Slip 2000 to see if it is good. No issues so far.
I have never needed any special concoctions to keep my guns running in the cold, or in sandy climates.

