Keeping Safety at the Forefront
Before embarking on any firearm maintenance, safety should be your top priority. This rule applies to every instance of gun handling, and cleaning is no exception. Ensure you are in a well-lit and uncluttered area, preferably a workbench or table dedicated to gun maintenance.
The very first, and absolutely crucial, step is to verify that your Winchester 94 is unloaded. Even if you believe it’s unloaded, physically confirm it. Open the lever, inspect the chamber, and physically remove any rounds. Look both in the chamber and the magazine tube. Visually and manually confirm the absence of ammunition.
Once you’ve confirmed the absence of any ammunition, point the muzzle of your Winchester 94 in a safe direction – this could be a designated firearm safety area or a direction where a negligent discharge would cause minimal harm or damage. Maintain this safe muzzle discipline throughout the entire cleaning process. Never point the gun at anything you are not willing to destroy.
When working on your Winchester 94, remove any loose clothing, jewelry, or accessories that could get caught in the mechanism. Ensure all ammunition is stored separately, and that no distractions exist.
Gathering Your Necessary Supplies
To effectively clean your Winchester 94, you will need a collection of essential tools and cleaning supplies. Having everything organized before you begin will streamline the process and prevent unnecessary interruptions. These are the core items required:
Cleaning Rod
Select a cleaning rod designed specifically for firearms. Ensure the rod is the correct caliber (.30-30 Winchester, for example) and long enough to reach through the entire bore. A one-piece rod is often preferred for its rigidity. A good quality rod will protect the bore from scratching.
Bore Brush
Choose a bore brush of the correct caliber and material (usually bronze or nylon). The brush is the workhorse for removing fouling. Consider having multiple brushes for different levels of wear.
Patch Holder or Jag
A patch holder securely attaches a cleaning patch to the cleaning rod. A jag holds the patch more firmly, giving it better contact with the bore.
Cleaning Patches
Select soft, absorbent cleaning patches made from a material that won’t scratch the bore. Patches should be the appropriate size for your caliber.
Gun Cleaning Solvent
Select a high-quality gun cleaning solvent designed to dissolve powder residue, carbon buildup, and other contaminants. Choose a solvent appropriate for your ammunition type. If using smokeless powder, use a solvent specifically designed for smokeless powder. If using black powder, use a black powder-specific solvent.
Gun Oil
Gun oil provides lubrication and protects metal surfaces from corrosion. Select a gun oil designed for firearms and that is compatible with your solvent.
Lubricant
A lubricant, ideally a light grease, can be applied to sliding surfaces. Some gun oils already include added lubricants.
Screwdrivers
You’ll likely need a set of screwdrivers to remove the lever and other components. Ensure your screwdrivers are the correct size and type to prevent damaging the screw heads. Consider purchasing a gunsmithing screwdriver set.
Soft Cloths or Paper Towels
Use soft cloths or paper towels for wiping down surfaces, removing excess solvent, and applying oil.
Toothbrush or Cleaning Pick (Optional)
A toothbrush or cleaning pick can be helpful for scrubbing hard-to-reach areas.
Beyond the core supplies, consider including a bore guide to protect the chamber, and a set of brass brushes for a longer lifespan.
Minimal Disassembly for Effective Cleaning
The Winchester 94 is generally a straightforward rifle to clean, and a complete takedown isn’t usually required for routine maintenance. However, some minimal disassembly will improve cleaning effectiveness.
Begin by opening the lever and removing the lever itself. Many models have a small screw that holds the lever in place. Carefully remove the screw and slide the lever out. This will allow you to better access the bolt and receiver.
Depending on the model, it might be beneficial to remove the forend. This can be done by removing the screws that attach it to the barrel. This provides better access to the magazine tube area for cleaning.
Carefully place all parts you remove in a safe place, such as a clean tray or a dedicated work surface. This prevents them from getting lost or damaged. Be particularly careful with small screws and pins.
Cleaning the Inner Barrel
Cleaning the bore, or the barrel’s interior, is one of the most critical steps in cleaning your Winchester 94. It directly impacts accuracy and performance.
Begin by applying the Cleaning Solution. Saturate a cleaning patch with your gun cleaning solvent and run it through the bore from the breech (where the bullet casing is inserted) to the muzzle (the end of the barrel where the bullet exits). Avoid pushing the patch from the muzzle end to the breech. This can deposit fouling back into the action. After the patch has passed through, let the solvent sit in the barrel for the time recommended by the product’s instructions. Usually this is around ten to fifteen minutes, but always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Next, attach the Bore Brush to the cleaning rod. Carefully insert the brush into the bore from the breech end, making sure the rod is aligned with the barrel. Push the brush through the barrel and back, fully extending to the end. Avoid changing direction inside the bore. Continue pushing and pulling the brush through the bore several times. This action removes residue and loosens carbon buildup.
After brushing, remove the brush. Attach a clean patch to the cleaning rod, using a patch holder or jag. Run the patch through the bore, wiping out the loosened debris. Repeat this process with fresh patches until the patches come out clean, free of any visible residue. If you encounter significant fouling, repeat the brushing and patching process.
Cleaning the Action and Exterior
Beyond the bore, cleaning the action and exterior of your Winchester 94 is also important.
Cleaning the Bolt and Receiver
Using a solvent-dampened brush or a clean cloth, carefully clean the bolt and the inside of the receiver. Pay particular attention to the areas where the bolt slides and where the extractor sits. Remove any carbon, debris, or old lubricant.
Cleaning the Lever
Wipe down the lever with a solvent-dampened cloth. Remove any grime or buildup that may affect the lever’s operation. Inspect the lever for any signs of wear.
Cleaning the Exterior
Wipe down the exterior surfaces of the rifle with a clean cloth. Remove any fingerprints, dirt, or debris from the stock, receiver, and barrel. Be extra cautious with the wood furniture.
Applying Lubrication
After cleaning, lubricate the rifle. Lubrication reduces friction, prevents corrosion, and ensures smooth operation.
Apply a light coat of gun oil to the bolt, receiver, and other moving parts. Use a small amount of oil, as too much can attract dirt and debris.
Apply a small amount of lubricant to areas like the lever and other sliding parts. Avoid over-lubricating.
Wipe away any excess oil with a clean cloth. This will help to prevent a build-up of dust and debris.
Reassembly and Final Checks
Carefully reassemble the rifle, ensuring that all parts are correctly placed. Refer to the original disassembly steps as needed. Double-check that all screws are tightened securely.
Once reassembled, cycle the action of your Winchester 94 multiple times. Ensure that the lever functions smoothly, and that the action cycles and locks correctly. If you encounter any issues, carefully disassemble the rifle and double-check that all parts are correctly placed.
Thorough Inspection and Final Steps
Before storing your rifle, conduct a final inspection. Make sure all parts are correctly assembled. Visually inspect the bore for any remaining residue. Inspect the entire rifle for any signs of damage or excessive wear.
Store the rifle in a safe, dry place, away from children and unauthorized individuals. Consider using a gun safe or a locked cabinet for secure storage.
The End Result
Cleaning and maintaining your Winchester 94 is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. The frequency of cleaning will depend on how frequently you use your rifle and the type of ammunition you shoot. If you are a high-volume shooter, you may need to clean your Winchester 94 after every shooting session. If you only shoot occasionally, a thorough cleaning every few hundred rounds should suffice.
Understanding the function and maintenance of your Winchester 94 is a form of respect for this classic firearm and ensures its continued longevity. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your Winchester 94 for years to come, preserving its value, performance, and historical significance.
This step-by-step guide offers a solid foundation for cleaning your Winchester 94. Consistent practice will improve your proficiency.
Additional Resources
For those wanting to further their expertise, explore instructional videos and online forums.
