8 Spring Cleaning & Maintenance Steps for Your AR-15

March 10, 2025

Spring is here, and it’s time to break out your AR-15 after those long, cold winter months. Whether your rifle was stored or saw some action during winter, a thorough cleaning and maintenance session is essential for peak performance. In true modern gunsmith style, here’s a rundown of eight critical steps to get your AR-15 ready for the warmer days ahead.

1. Safety First: Clear and Disassemble

Before you even think about a cleaning brush, ensure your AR-15 is completely clear. Remove the magazine, check the chamber, and follow your standard safety protocols. Disassemble your upper receiver and extract the bolt carrier group (BCG) and charging handle. A clean slate is the foundation of every well-maintained firearm.

Pro Tip: Always double-check the chamber and magazine well to confirm the rifle is unloaded. Safety isn’t negotiable.

2. Bore and Barrel Cleaning

Start with the heart of your rifle—the barrel. Use a quality bore brush and solvent to remove carbon buildup, fouling, and any moisture that may have accumulated over the winter.

Pro Tip: Run a dry patch through the barrel until it comes out clean, and follow up with a lightly oiled patch to prevent rust.

3. Thorough BCG Disassembly and Cleaning

Disassemble the bolt carrier group to its components. Use a solvent and brush to remove any carbon deposits and residue on the bolt, bolt carrier, and gas key. Ensure you’re reaching every crevice—carbon buildup can compromise function.

Pro Tip: A dedicated BCG cleaning kit works wonders. Consider using an ultrasonic cleaner for those hard-to-reach spots if you have access.

4. Inspect the Gas System

With the AR-15’s design, the gas system plays a vital role in cycling. Inspect the gas tube and gas key for any signs of carbon buildup or corrosion. Clean them thoroughly with a brush and solvent, then dry and lightly lubricate.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the gas block and gas tube alignment. Even minor misalignments can affect cycling reliability.

5. Buffer Assembly Check

Examine the buffer tube, buffer spring, and buffer for any signs of wear or corrosion. A compromised buffer assembly can alter recoil dynamics and reliability. Clean, inspect, and, if necessary, replace any components that show damage.

Pro Tip: A well-maintained buffer system not only improves reliability but also contributes to a smoother shooting experience.

6. Lubrication and Protection

Now that everything’s clean and inspected, it’s time to apply the right lubricants. Use a high-quality gun oil on the BCG, pivot pins, and any moving parts. Remember, proper lubrication is key to minimizing wear and ensuring smooth cycling.

Pro Tip: Don’t over-lubricate—excess oil can attract dirt and debris. A light, even coating is all you need.

7. Inspect and Upgrade Accessories & Optics

While your AR-15 is disassembled, it's an ideal time not only to inspect your sights, optic mounts, and accessories for any signs of wear or looseness, but also to consider any upgrades you've been planning. This is your chance to enhance your setup by swapping out components for improved performance. For example, if you’ve been thinking about upgrading your stock, the Adaptive Tactical EX AR Stock offers an excellent, comfortable alternative to the original factory stock. It’s engineered for precision, ergonomics, and reliability—an upgrade that can truly transform your shooting experience.

Pro Tip:
Review your current accessory setup carefully. Tighten all screws and fasteners, and consider investing in high-quality upgrades where needed. Use a torque wrench on your optic mounts to ensure everything meets manufacturer specifications. If a stock upgrade is on your list, check out the Adaptive Tactical EX AR Stock here for a robust, proven solution.

8. Function Test and Final Assembly

Reassemble your AR-15 carefully, ensuring all parts are correctly aligned and secured. Perform a function test—cycle the action multiple times, dry-fire (if safe), and confirm that the trigger and safety functions are operating as intended.

Pro Tip: After reassembly, a final function check at the range is a good idea. This real-world test ensures your AR-15 is not only clean but also performs reliably under load.

In Summary

Taking the time to perform these eight Spring cleaning and maintenance steps on your AR-15 ensures that it’s ready for action, reliable, and safe to use after a long period of inactivity. By paying attention to the bore, BCG, gas system, buffer assembly, and accessories—and by applying the proper lubrication and function testing—you set yourself up for optimal performance.

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