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How to Clean a Colt 45 Auto

Colt .45 automatic pistols are used worldwide by military, law enforcement and sport shooters alike. The Colt .45 is extremely reliable and easy to maintain. After firing your pistol you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent corrosion; the same advice applies if the pistol gets wet. If the pistol is carried regularly (such as a duty firearm) it should be cleaned at least once a month. Pistols that have not been fired or carried should be cleaned at least once or twice a year.

Things You'll Need

Cleaning rod
Brass wire brush (sized for .45 cal)
Clean cloth patches
Clean cloth rag
Small toothbrush
Light gun oil
Gun cleaning solvent

Instructions

- 1
  Unload and disassemble your pistol.
- 2
  Attach the wire brush to the end of the cleaning rod and dip in gun cleaning solvent. Scrub the interior of the barrel by passing the brush, back and forth, completely through the barrel. Remove wire brush from cleaning rod.
- 3
  Use the cleaning rod to pass a dry cloth patch through the barrel. Remove the dirty patch and replace. Continue the process until the patch comes out clean. Visually inspect the barrel to verify that no dirt remains.
- 4
  Apply gun cleaning solvent to the small toothbrush and clean the exterior of the barrel. Continue using the toothbrush to clean the remaining parts. Wipe off the solvent with a clean rag.
- 5
  Apply light gun oil to a fresh patch and use the cleaning rod to pass it through the barrel. Lightly apply gun oil to the remaining surfaces.
- 6
  Reassemble your pistol and wipe off any excess oil.

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