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

Magpul/ZEV FDP Carbine
Magpul/ZEV FDP Carbine

Ori-gun-i: The ZEV Technologies FDP Carbine

The American art of folding polymer and steel into a working firearm reaches what might be its zenith with the Zev Technologies/Magpul FDP.

Study Finds Correlation Between Firearm Training & Safe Gun Storage

In a survey of more than 1,000 firearm owners across the nation, researchers found that firearm training increases responsible gun storage at a dramatic rate.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 12, 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.

Review: Glenfield Firearms Model A

The Glenfield Firearms Model A is a stalwart budget option returning to the market under the Ruger umbrella.

Skills Check: Taking Time Off

Our drill this month is a real worker bee. It trains you to deliver a well-placed transition round and deliberately decreases the time it takes you to move the muzzle and set up for the next one.

Range Review: Canik Prime Radian

With the new Canik Prime Radian, you can have your compensator and your flared magazine well, too, all inside an easily carried, compact handgun.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.