Smyth Busters: Cleaning Will Wear Out a Barrel?

In this episode of SmythBusters, Stephen and Caleb address the myth that cleaning your firearm barrel can shorten its lifespan. They break down the truth behind this idea, discussing how improper cleaning techniques can potentially cause damage, particularly in .22 rifles, while explaining the best practices for maintaining your barrel’s longevity. 

What You Will Learn

Viewers will learn the importance of using the right tools and solvents for cleaning, and how to properly care for their firearms to avoid unnecessary wear. The episode helps clear up common misconceptions, offering practical tips for everyday shooters and precision enthusiasts alike. 

Benefit 

By watching, viewers gain confidence in their cleaning routines, knowing that proper care won’t harm their barrel, and will help preserve their firearm's performance over time.

Busting the Myth: Does Cleaning Your Barrel Really Shorten Its Lifespan?

In this episode of SmythBusters, Stephen and Caleb tackle a common myth submitted by one of their viewers: Does cleaning your barrel kill its lifespan? The myth has been around for years, particularly concerning firearms like .22 rifles, and it's time to separate fact from fiction. Here’s what they have to say about it.

The 22 Rifle Myth

The idea that cleaning your .22 rifle can damage the barrel likely stems from the softer barrels often used in these firearms. While it's true that improper cleaning techniques can cause wear and tear, this doesn’t mean that regular cleaning will automatically shorten the barrel's life. The real danger comes from using overly aggressive methods, like steel wool brushes or harsh cleaning products, which can cause damage over time.

The issue arises when using brass brushes incorrectly or without a bore guide, especially in .22 barrels. This can cause unnecessary wear, but with the right tools, like a polymer brush, and a gentle touch, cleaning won’t harm your barrel. Also, using harsh, ammonia-based solvents can be damaging if not fully removed before firing, as heat can exacerbate the issue.

The Precision Barrel Perspective

When it comes to precision shooting, enthusiasts are extremely particular about their firearm maintenance. They take great care with their cleaning routine, often avoiding brass brushes altogether, opting instead for polymer brushes, and using products like JB Bore Cleaner for extra care. These shooters are often concerned with getting every bit of life out of their precision-machined stainless steel barrels, which are built for long-lasting performance.

These barrels are typically shot so much that the real damage comes from erosion rather than cleaning. However, as long as you’re using the right tools, even precision barrels are safe from damage due to regular cleaning.

What About Modern Barrels?

For most everyday shooters, cleaning your firearm with a proper, coated cleaning rod and using standard cleaning solvents will not harm your barrel—whether it’s chromed, nitrided, or stainless. Modern firearms, especially those with hard finishes like nitrided barrels, can withstand regular cleaning without issue.

For example, when Stephen was in the military, cleaning his M16 with a brass section rod didn’t affect its accuracy or performance, even after extensive use. The same applies to most military-style rifles today. Nitrided barrels, commonly found in AR-15s, are especially durable, and cleaning them regularly with the right tools won’t cause any damage.

Conclusion: Myth Mostly Busted

So, does cleaning your barrel really shorten its lifespan? For most shooters, the answer is a resounding no—especially if you’re using the proper tools and cleaning products. The real threat to your barrel's lifespan is neglecting copper fouling, which can be far more destructive to both accuracy and barrel life than regular cleaning.

As Stephen puts it, "If you clean your gun right, as needed, you're good." And remember, you don’t need to clean your firearm after every use—especially in the age of modern firearms and proper maintenance tools.

So, while heavy-handed cleaning can potentially damage a barrel, in normal circumstances, this myth is busted. For those with differing opinions or cleaning methods, Stephen and Caleb encourage viewers to share their thoughts in the comments!

Thanks for watching, and stay tuned for more myth-busting episodes of SmythBusters!