How to Maintain an M16 Rifle

Ensure the weapon is clear, the bolt is forward and the gun is on safe. Wipe off the outside of the weapon with a dry rag. Get all of the dust, dirt and oil off of the weapon.

Disassemble and clean the rifle by removing the pins that hold the upper and lower receiver and pulling the charging handle out.

Clean the upper receiver with a rag. Use cotton swabs to clean the trigger mechanism.

Clean the bolt by removing the retaining pin from the side of the bolt. Let the firing and cam pins slide out then slide the bolt of the bolt carrier. Clean all of the carbon and dirt off of these parts with a cotton swab.

Attach a clean barrel swab to a barrel rod. Scrub the barrel from the breech to the muzzle, repeat until the swab comes out clean.

Apply a thin coat of CLP or other approved M16 lubricant on all metal parts of the rifle as you assemble it.