How to Clean a Suppressor

Table of Contents

Wondering how to clean a suppressor?  No matter what kind you have, keeping it clean is key to making sure it works well for a long time. Carbon buildup and other dirt can mess up how it works.   This guide gives you all the info you need to clean your silencer, if and when it’s needed, so it keeps working great and lasts a long time.

The Right Way to Clean a Suppressor (aka Silencer)

When it comes to maintaining suppressors, knowing how to clean them is key. Cleaning helps it stay in great condition. Make sure you pick the right cleaning method and materials to protect the inside of your silencer. Regular cleaning is crucial, especially for sealed units that can’t be taken apart. Using good-quality cleaning tools will make the process easier and safer for your silencer. Check them carefully since they can get dirty quickly. Just like cleaning your rifle, maintaining your silencer is super important for keeping it working well. Take the time to clean it right to make it last longer and stay efficient. Always, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid any accidental damage.

Is It a Sealed Suppressor or User-Serviceable Suppressor?

Before getting started, first check the manufacturer’s instructions to see what kind you have.  A sealed suppressor can’t be taken apart while a user-serviceable silence can be taken apart.  Sealed suppressors are simpler and often lighter, but you can’t clean them as thoroughly. User-serviceable suppressors give you more control over cleaning, but they have a little more weight and complexity in the construction.

General Guidelines for Cleaning a Suppressor*

  • Rifles: Typically self-cleaning
  • Pistols: Cleaning every few thousand rounds.
  • Rimfire: Clean every few hundred rounds.

 

*Check with your manufacturer.

How to Clean Sealed Suppressors

A sealed suppressor can’t be disassembled, so cleaning is very easy.  Because it can vary, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions and stick with that.  If it does need cleaning, it typically involves soaking it in a solvent to break up the carbon, but again, check with your manufacturer so the finish or components don’t get damaged.

User-Serviceable Suppressor Cleaning

Check The Manufacturers’ Cleaning Instructions

Depending on your make and its use, you may rarely, if ever need to clean your suppressor.

If a suppressor cleaning is needed, use these steps along with manufacturer’s instructions.

Disassemble The Silencer

Remove it from your firearm and carefully disassemble it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.  This typically involves removing end caps, baffles, and other internal components

Soak in Solvent

Soak the disassembled components in a suitable cleaning solvent or solution. Many gun cleaning solvents are available on the market specifically designed for this purpose. Let the components soak for the recommended amount of time to loosen any fouling or debris.

Scrub and Rinse

After soaking, use a brush or cleaning tool to scrub the individual components. Pay particular attention to areas where carbon buildup is common, such as the baffles and the end cap. Nylon or brass brushes are often recommended to avoid damaging the suppressor’s surfaces.  Thoroughly rinse all the components with clean water to remove any remaining solvent and debris. Ensure all traces of solvent are removed.

Drying

Use compressed air or a clean, lint-free cloth to dry all components thoroughly. It’s crucial to remove all moisture to prevent corrosion.

Inspection and Reassembly

Before reassembly, inspect all components for any signs of damage or excessive wear. Replace any worn or damaged parts as necessary.  Carefully reassemble the suppressor according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure all components are properly aligned and seated.

Function Check

After cleaning and reassembling your silencer, perform a function check to ensure it operates correctly.

Reattach Suppressor to Rifle and Test Fire

If possible, test fire your rifle with the suppressor attached to make sure it’s operational.

Keeping Suppressors Clean

Suppressor cleaning is important, but pretty easy to get done. Make sure to stick your specific manufacturers’ instructions to determine if and when it needs to be cleaned and how to do it correctly. By sticking to that best practice, you can be sure that your silencer remains in optimal condition. With the right tools and approach, your suppressor will continue to provide the performance you want for years of service.

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