Patches, Pads, and Wipes
R: Required
r: Recommended
O: Optional
Patches (R)
Patches are essential to cleaning the bore of the barrel. There are a few options when it comes to patches.
Shape
Patches come in round or square options. Honestly, there really isn’t much of a difference. Round patches are easy to get into a patch holder and are probably the best option if you are using a jag.
Material
- Cotton: Soft and absorbent.
- Knit Cotton: Soft, absorbent, and durable, but is more expensive.
- Flannel: Soft, absorbent, and inexpensive.
- Synthetic: Durable and inexpensive.
- Wool: Absorbent but leaves lint.
We use round, woven flannel patches.
Star Chamber Pads (r)
If you are using a chamber tool, these are strongly recommended. Star chamber pads help clear out the crud behind the barrel extension lugs, after you’ve loosened it with the scraping part of the tool. They can also be used to apply solvents and lubricant.
They are generally made of wool.
Wipes
You need wipes. Call them what you want.
Disposable (R)
We use disposable wipes, because they work better and don’t need to be cleaned.
Natural fibers are best, because they will be more absorbent and will pick up the dirt better.
You can use paper towels, but we opt for a more robust option.
Reusable (O)
Reusable wipes are fine, as long as you clean them regularly.
Swabs (r)
Cotton swabs help get into tight spaces.
We recommend makeup applicators, because they don’t shed and snag.
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