Cleaning Bolt Recesses

by
posted on August 26, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
qanda2015_fs.jpg (1)

Q: Is there an easy way to clean the bolt recesses in a bolt-action receiver? I find that after just a couple of shooting sessions they get so full of junk that I have trouble closing the bolt.

A: Sinclair makes a recess cleaning tool that utilizes cotton swabs that resemble an oversized cigarette filter. Secure the swab to the tool, soak it with solvent and insert it through the rear of the receiver. Once the swabs reach the recesses they will spread. A few turns will remove the grime that accumulates in this hard-to-reach area. For really dirty recesses it may take several swabs. Be careful removing the tool, especially on receivers like the Winchester Model 70 that have blade-style ejectors. You will have to carefully push the ejector down to remove the tool.

undefined

Latest

Kimber 1911 Ds Warrior Gotw 1
Kimber 1911 Ds Warrior Gotw 1

Gun of the Week: Kimber 1911 DS Warrior LW

In 2026, Kimber developed its 1911 DS Warrior, an American-made, double-stack design that is intended to be an affordable entry point into Kimber's double-stack handgun line.

The Armed Citizen® April 24, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Spin Difference: The Impact of Barrel Twist Rates on Terminal Performance

When most shooters think of rifling-twist rates, they mostly think of rifles with their high BC projectiles, but the rpm of a bullet also plays a part in terminal performance.

Beretta's 1301 Tactical vs. A300 Ultima Patrol Shotguns: Which Should You Choose?

Ever since Beretta launched the A300 Ultima Patrol shotgun in 2024 as a less-pricey alternative to the 1301 Tactical, shotgunners have debated whether the 1301 is worth the extra cost. Let's examine them both.

ZEV Technologies Escaping Washington State’s Hostile Political Climate

ZEV Technologies announced it is moving its headquarters and manufacturing operations out of Washington state to Utah’s Second Amendment-friendly business climate.

U.S. v. Hemani Arguments

On March 2, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in U.S. v. Hemani. The case involves a defendant who is fighting a federal indictment for possessing a firearm while being a marijuana user.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.