Cleaning lead out of a bore - follow up

kimi

December 20, 2014 11:29

For the first time, I have had the bore of an antique rifle plugged with cork stoppers and filled with Kroil for two days. I punched the bore with a brush about six or eight times and then cleaned it with patches. No rust color on any of the patches of any significance, but a lot of lead color. Overall the results were satisfying, but more of the leading needs to come out. So, I re-plugged the bore and filled it with Kroil again, and will let it sit for three or four days. I expect to see more good results, but will use another method as recommended to me in my initial post on this subject should it be necessary.

Thanks for the input on my first post on this issue!

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  Okie743

  December 21, 2014 02:47

  This was suggested by JONK in your previous post:
  
  If you want to get an idea of how it (vinegar/peroxide) will melt lead mix up a small batch in a clear glass drop in a muzzleloader lead bullet and a copper jacketed rifle bullet and you will see the lead start turning melting into a slurry after awhile. If you want to see if you have any copper fouling wet the bore real good with Hoppes #9 bore cleaner and let it sit overnight or 24 hours and run a snug clean white patch thru the bore and if it comes out with any blue or green color it also has copper fouling. The vinegar/peroxide don't seem to have much affect on copper fouling. I use the Hoppes #9 blue/green test on rifle bores as a indicator of copper fouled bore (if accuracy problem or accuracy starting to go astray) and also as a indicator of copper fouling starting to buildup in a previously clean bore after several shots.
  
  
  As a last resort, a 50/50 mix of peroxide and white vinegar left to soak in the bore for 10 minutes will turn any lead into a gray slurry that wipes right out. But it's quite caustic on the metal and will etch the metal, and pit it if you leave it in too long. It also is hell on bluing and many wood finishes. I have used it as a last resort in several cases, and it always works great, and if it's a one time thing shouldn't cause any visible bore damage. Just make sure to flush with water and then scrub thoroughly with solvent after.

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  custom shop

  December 25, 2014 20:36

  try using a TCS cleaning Jag (Brownells, search TCS Jag for info)also available on GunBroker, Call 315 986-1717, and they can send you out some info

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  tsr1965

  December 26, 2014 17:01

  kimi,
  
  You never said what type of action this rifle is. I know with muzzle loaders, hot/boiling hot soapy water is one of the best methods. It might help loosen up the bond the lead has formed with the steel. Then a judicious dose of Kroil for a couple days.
  
  All my brushes and Jags say Montana Extreme on them. They are the only thing I will trust in my long distance guns.
  
  Best

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