Clean barrel on new gun before 1st shot

[Das71198]

This may have been discussed before on the GS, but should I clean the barrel on my new 25-06 before taking it to the range? I have been told to do it & there is not a need to do it. What is disadvantages or advantages.

Thanks

[texan16]

Probably don't HAVE to clean it, but probably a good idea to run a patch or two down the barrel and make sure it is good and clean before you take it to the range.

[AndyRealtree]

I just run a few patches thru a new barrel just to make sure there's nothing hanging out in there. Then just shoot it and clean it normal

[treestand]

It shouldn't have any metal bits left over from machining in there but who knows. Always best to clean a new barrel before the first shot.

[sir shovelhands]

Some manufacturers put a rust protectant in there (I've even seen thick grease) before they ship it. A few wipes won't hurt.

[ItsLeo]

Shovelhands is right. I've seen "new" barrels that were flat nasty with grease and oil! If you push a bullet down a barrel that has any grease or oil in it you can permanently damage the bore. It's a sad thing to do to a new rifle!

You can't always see it. So absolutely clean it first!

Run a couple patches soaked in degreaser through the bore and then run dry patches until they come clean. You'll know in the first couple patches how dirty it is.

[zac221]

I had a brand new TC encore in 25-06 that I ran 20 rds through with about a 6" group. Got mad went home and cleaned it. Shot it next day and had a 3/4" group. Since then I've cleaned before shooting, plus the grease in barrel thing.

[Jethro]

Always clean it first. You just never know what is in there. Could be too much oil, could be some leftover machining chips, whatever. The last thing you want to do is run a bullet over the top of that stuff and then imprint/score your barrel. It takes 5 minutes. Do it.

[Das71198]

Thanks - I will clean as advised.

[Cajun Blake]

Thanks - I will clean as advised.

buy a bore guide as well to protect the chamber

[dbrock63]

How to Break In a Rifle Barrel Presented by Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA

Look this up on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjbnYm_HmXg

[Mike D]

How to Break In a Rifle Barrel Presented by Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA

Look this up on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjbnYm_HmXg

You can't use that as a blanket practice. Each barrel manufacturer has different recommended procedures. Check with the manufacturer.

[Sierra 1]

I would run a patch down it first just to be safe. I agree with Mike D. Some manufacturers say to break in the barrel such as Remington. Others say just shoot it. I would always check with the manufacturer and see what they recommend on breaking it in. If you can not find anything out about your rifle it will not hurt anything to break it in. I have a particular way I break in a rifle barrel in my precision rifles and it has always worked for me.

[ElGatoBandito]

How to Break In a Rifle Barrel Presented by Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA

Look this up on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjbnYm_HmXg

And then on the flip side of the argument.... http://www.6mmbr.com/gailmcmbreakin.html