How to Properly Clean Your Airsoft Gun After a Match
Introduction
Maintaining your airsoft gun is essential to keeping it in peak performance and extending its lifespan. Whether you’ve just finished a day-long skirmish or a quick match with friends, properly cleaning and maintaining your airsoft gun ensures that it will continue to function reliably. In this guide, we will walk you through the key steps to clean your airsoft gun after a match, focusing on different types of guns, including AEGs (Airsoft Electric Guns), GBBs (Gas Blowback Guns), and spring-powered guns.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before starting, make sure you have the necessary tools and cleaning materials. For basic cleaning, you’ll need:
- Soft microfiber cloths
- Silicone spray or oil (non-petroleum based)
- Cleaning rod and barrel swabs
- Cotton swabs or soft brushes
- Compressed air (optional)
- Tools for disassembling your gun (if required)
It’s important to use silicone-based lubricants instead of petroleum-based oils, as petroleum products can degrade certain parts of your airsoft gun, especially the rubber components such as hop-up buckings.
Disassemble the Gun (If Necessary)
Some airsoft guns can be cleaned without full disassembly, but for a thorough cleaning, you may need to take apart certain components. Always refer to your gun’s manual for proper disassembly instructions. For example, AEGs may require removing the upper receiver, while GBBs usually need the slide to be taken off for internal access.
Spring-powered guns: Typically require minimal disassembly, but removing the barrel may be useful.
AEGs: Remove the battery and ensure the gun is discharged.
GBBs: Remove the magazine and release any residual gas.
Clean the Barrel
Cleaning the inner barrel is critical for maintaining accuracy. Dirt, dust, and BB residue can accumulate in the barrel, affecting your shots. Here’s how to clean it properly:
- Attach a soft barrel swab (or a clean patch) to your cleaning rod.
- Apply a small amount of silicone spray to the swab.
- Insert the rod gently into the barrel and run it through in one direction, twisting slightly as you go. Avoid pulling it back through with debris attached, as it can scratch the barrel.
- Repeat with clean patches until the patch comes out clean.
This process removes dirt and excess lubrication, which can cause inconsistencies in BB trajectory.
Clean the Hop-Up Unit
The hop-up unit is responsible for giving your BBs backspin, and dirt or excess oil can reduce its effectiveness. You can clean the hop-up unit by gently wiping it with a dry cotton swab. Avoid using too much oil here, as over-lubricating the hop-up can cause the BBs to slip, reducing accuracy.
Tip: For gas blowback (GBB) pistols, ensure that the hop-up unit is not too oily by wiping away any excess grease or dirt from the hop-up bucking.
Clean the Exterior
The exterior of your airsoft gun can accumulate dirt, fingerprints, and grime after a match, especially if you’ve been playing in muddy or dusty conditions. Wipe down the external components with a soft microfiber cloth. Use a small amount of silicone spray if necessary to remove stubborn grime but avoid spraying it directly on the gun. Instead, apply it to the cloth first.
For intricate parts like rails or external accessories, use a soft brush or cotton swabs to get into small areas. Compressed air can also help remove dust from tight spots.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Lubricating the moving parts of your gun ensures smooth operation and reduces wear. Focus on these areas:
- AEGs: Lightly lubricate the gears, trigger contacts, and any external moving parts like the selector switch.
- GBBs: Lubricate the slide rails and the trigger mechanism with a thin layer of silicone oil. Be sure to avoid over-lubricating, as this can attract dirt.
- Spring guns: These require minimal lubrication. Focus on the bolt or slide mechanism.
Remember, less is more when it comes to lubrication. Over-lubricating can attract dirt and debris, which can lead to malfunction.
Check the Battery (For AEGs)
After a match, always check your battery’s charge level and inspect the wires for any signs of wear or damage. Remove the battery from the gun if you won’t be using it for a while to prevent it from draining.
Store your LiPo or NiMH batteries in a safe, cool place, and consider using a storage bag for extra protection. This step ensures your battery remains in good condition and ready for your next game.
Inspect the Magazine
Magazines can accumulate dirt and dust, especially in outdoor environments. Clean the feeding lips and spring with a dry cloth or compressed air. If you use gas magazines (GBBs), apply a small amount of silicone oil to the seals and valves to maintain a good seal and prevent leaks.
Tip: After cleaning, store your magazines empty to relieve tension on the springs.
Reassemble and Function Test
Once you’ve cleaned all the parts, carefully reassemble your airsoft gun. Perform a quick function test to ensure everything is operating smoothly. Check that the selector switch works, the trigger pulls cleanly, and any safety mechanisms are functioning correctly.
Store Your Gun Properly
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the longevity of your airsoft gun. Store your gun in a cool, dry place away from moisture, which can lead to rust or damage over time. Avoid storing it under tension (for spring-powered guns) or with the battery connected (for AEGs).
Conclusion
By following these simple steps after every airsoft match, you can ensure that your gun remains in excellent condition and performs consistently on the field. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your airsoft gun but also improves its accuracy and reliability. Whether you’re a casual weekend player or a competitive airsoft enthusiast, taking a few minutes to clean and care for your equipment will pay off in the long run.
Proper cleaning after every match will keep your airsoft gun firing smoothly, so you’re always ready for your next battle!
