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How to Port & Polish a Gun

Porting refers to adding holes to the barrel of a gun near its end. Doing so helps to reduce the recoil because some of the hot gases that would otherwise cause the gun to propel backwards when fired are able to escape through these holes. Porting also helps to lessen the likelihood of the muzzle to rise when shooting because these escaping gases help to push the gun's barrel down when the trigger is pulled. Because the holes are added near the end of the barrel, porting has essentially no effect on the speed at which shots and slugs exit the weapon. Polishing a gun, on the other hand, improve a gun's performance by lubricating its action interfaces. It also improves a gun's appearance and helps to prevent rusting.

Things You'll Need

Barrel-porting jig
Small air compressor
Toothbrush
Cleaning-rod kit
Gun polish
Lint-free cloths
Oil

Instructions

- 1
  Port the gun using a barrel-porting jig. This includes a universal clamping feature to fit all barrel styles and multiple jigs that facilitate drilling different-size holes. Use the instructions that come with the jig to clamp the gun in place and drill the holes. As an alternative, some vendors also offer mail-in porting services so owners can send their barrels away to have holes added. Professionals can typically port a variety of handguns, including rifles and revolvers.
- 2
  Remove all bullets from the weapon to ensure safety during polishing.
- 3
  Use a small air compressor to loosen and remove dirt and debris from the gun.
- 4
  Clean the gun with a dry, small toothbrush to reach every spot on the firearm.
- 5
  Purchase a cleaning-rod kit and attach a cleaning pad to the largest rod it includes that will fit inside the gun's barrel. Slide the rod in and out of the gun; repeat this motion several times with a new pad until the pad comes out clean.
- 6
  Apply gun polish to either the toothbrush or directly to the gun. Buff the gun with a lint-free cloth.
- 7
  Apply a drop of oil to the trigger, if necessary, to lubricate the trigger. Remove excess oil with another lint-free cloth.

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