Quick Answer
To clean a lever-action .357 Magnum rifle, start by removing the magazine and any attached accessories. Next, inspect and clean the barrel, action, and stock, using the appropriate cleaning tools and solvents for the rifle's finish. Use a soft brush and mild soap for the stock, and a bore brush for the barrel.
Pre-Cleaning Preparation
Before cleaning your .357 Magnum lever-action rifle, ensure you have the necessary tools and supplies. These include a cleaning rod, bore brush, patching system, gun cleaning solvent, and a soft brush for the stock. Remove the magazine and any attached accessories, such as a scope or sling, to prevent damage and make cleaning easier. If your rifle has a muzzle brake or compensator, use a specialized tool to remove it.
Cleaning the Barrel and Action
Start by cleaning the barrel and action using a cleaning rod and bore brush. Attach the bore brush to the cleaning rod and apply a small amount of cleaning solvent to the brush. Insert the brush into the barrel and push it through, using a gentle twisting motion to remove any debris or fouling. Use a patching system to wipe out any remaining solvent and debris, repeating the process as needed. For the action, use a soft cloth and mild soap to wipe down the surfaces, paying particular attention to the lever and trigger.
Cleaning the Stock
To clean the stock, start by using a soft brush to remove any loose debris or dust. Next, apply a small amount of mild soap to a soft cloth and gently wipe down the stock, working from the buttpad to the fore-end. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, which can damage the stock finish. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe away any soap residue and inspect the stock for any remaining dust or debris.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.