Many folks prefer tools that make jobs easier to complete.
And this was damage that in many cases far exceeds the cost of a specialized tool.
I prefer to always to use the correct tool for the job.
A layout of some home gun maintenance tools identified by the author as important for home gun maintenance.
I do not improvise because the best tools will yield the best results.
I also own a Wheeler Engineering set that includes numerous firearm(s)-specific bits.
Another necessary tool is a gun vise.
Shown above is how a hollow ground screwdriver properly fits a screw and prevents damage. Image: Chapman Manufacturing.
It is not difficult to mount a scope especially on a modern rifle like a SAINT.
I use an older Brownells model that works with Magna-Tip bits and 3/8 drive sockets.
It doesnt matter if Im cleaning a heavily upgraded SAINT Edge or a SAINT M-Lok.
Shown here is a Dewey Coated Rod and brass jag. These tools are durable but are designed to reduce the risk of damage to your guns while cleaning them. Image: Dewey Manufacturing.
I prefer J. Dewey cleaning rods.
They make brass rods as well as steel rods that have a nylon coating.
Nylon-coated or brass is a matter of personal preference.
The author’s M1A rifle is held in place for cleaning using a Tipton Ultra Gun Vise. The rifle is inverted to prevent solvents from dripping into the gas tube. A Dewey Coated Rod and Bore Guide is used.
Both are designed to prevent barrel damage and are sold in various lengths and diameters.
Foundations
A rubber mat makes gun maintenance a little more pleasant.
My preferred mat is the Lyman Essential Rifle Maintenance Mat.
A Chapman Toolset and other assorted tools with a TRP 1911 laid out on a Lyman Essential Maintenance Mat.
The Lyman mat is made from synthetic rubber, and Ive found that solvents wipe off easily.
Oils and solvents easily wipe off the hard plastic surface.
This very sturdy portable table has a weight capacity of 1,500 lbs.
Removing the handguard on an AR-style rifle is straightforward, but can be difficult. Using a handguard removal tool, like the one shown here, can make the job easier.
and will handle any firearms-related task with ease.
When working with AR-key in rifles that have plastic handguards, a handguard removal tool is nice to have.
I like very clean guns.
Here the author shows a 1911 extractor removal using the Channel Lock 90-degree hook. Having the correct tools makes home gun maintenance easy.
I have a Channel Lock Hook and Pick set that works well for the frame and slide rails.
I just wrap a clean patch around the 90-degree hook and run it along each rail.
In my experience, this setup works better than a Q-tip that could break under pressure.
Padded jaws on a bench vise and a Precision Reflex Upper Receiver Assembly Block hold this Springfield Armory SAINT upper in place for cleaning or scope mounting.
I then use the 90-degree hook to pull the extractor out of its channel.
Another useful 1911 tool is a barrel bushing wrench.
Quality punches are essential.
When I need to use the vise, I C-clamp the 2X6 lumber to the workbench.
This setup saves space because when Im not using the vise, it is stored out of the way.
The C-clamp has not failed me even when torquing barrel nuts on AR-punch in rifles.
I am partial to the Precision Reflex M16-AR15 Upper Receiver Assembly Vise Block.
Conclusion
If you take care of your firearms, they will last and work reliably for generations.
