If you’re a gun owner, chances are you’ve heard of a boresnake. A boresnake is a tool that’s used to clean the inside of a gun barrel. While there are many different ways to clean a gun barrel, using a boresnake is one of the quickest and easiest methods. In this post, we’ll show you how to clean a boresnake.
What is a Boresnake?

A boresnake is a cleaning tool used to clean the bore of a firearm. It is a long, flexible piece of wire with a brush or other cleaning implement attached to one end. The boresnake is inserted into the bore and pulled through, scrubbing the sides of the bore as it goes.
Boresnakes are an effective and convenient way to clean firearms, and they are especially well-suited for cleaning long guns such as rifles and shotguns. They can be used on all types of firearms, including pistols, revolvers, and even air guns.
The Tools You’ll Need
Assuming you are talking about the gun cleaning tool, you will need the following:
First, make sure your gun is unloaded. Then, run the boresnake through the barrel several times, using solvent-soaked patches to clean the sides of the barrel as you go. Once the barrel is clean, apply a light coat of lubricant and run the boresnake through a few more times to distribute the lubricant evenly. Wipe down the outside of the barrel with a rag or paper towel to remove any excess solvent or lubricant.
Safety First
Before we get started, it’s important to note that cleaning your gun bore is a dangerous task. There are a number of ways you can hurt yourself if you’re not careful, so it’s important to take all necessary safety precautions. First and foremost, always make sure your gun is unloaded before you begin cleaning it. If you’re not sure how to do this, consult your gun’s owner’s manual.
In addition, you’ll need to wear protective eye gear while cleaning your gun. This is because the cleaning process can generate a lot of debris, and you don’t want anything flying into your eyes. Finally, make sure you’re wearing gloves while cleaning your gun. This will protect your hands from the cleaning chemicals and from getting cut on the sharp edges of the bore.
The cleaning process
Assuming you are asking how to clean a boresnake after use, the process is as follows:
- Run the boresnake through the bore of the gun a few times to remove any loose debris.
- Soak the boresnake in a cleaning solution for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse the boresnake off with clean water.
- Allow the boresnake to air dry.
- Once dry, lightly oil the boresnake and store in a safe place.
Some Final Tips
Rinse the boresnake in hot water to remove any dirt, grime, or lead buildup. Soak the boresnake in a cleaning solution for 10-15 minutes. We recommend using Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner. Rinse the boresnake again in hot water. Allow the boresnake to air dry. Once dry, lightly coat the boresnake with a lubricant like Hoppe’s Lubricating Oil. Store the boresnake in a cool, dry place.
Frequently Asked Question
How does a boresnake work?
A boresnake is inserted into the bore of a firearm and pulled through. The brush or other cleaning implement attached to the end of the boresnake scrubs the walls of the bore as it passes through, removing any built-up residue.
How often should you clean a boresnake?
A boresnake should be cleaned after each use.
What are the benefits of using a boresnake?
Boresnakes are quick and easy to use, and they are very effective at cleaning firearms. They are also lightweight and portable, making them perfect for taking to the range or on hunting trips.
How do you store a boresnake?
When not in use, a boresnake should be stored in a dry, cool place. It is also important to make sure that the boresnake is not stored in a place where it could be exposed to sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this could also damage the boresnake.
Can you machine wash a boresnake?
No, you should not machine wash a boresnake. Machine washing can damage the boresnake and may cause it to break down prematurely.
What kind of soap should you use to clean a boresnake?
Any type of mild soap will work to clean a boresnake. However, it is important to make sure that the soap does not contain any harsh chemicals that could damage the boresnake.
Conclusion
There are many ways to clean a bore snake, but the general idea is to run it through the bore of the gun after shooting to remove any debris or residue. Bore snakes are usually made of a flexible material that can be easily pulled through the bore, and they often have a bristled or scrubbed end to help loosen and remove any stubborn buildup.