The Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm: A Durable and Dependable Firearm
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm has become a popular choice among firearm enthusiasts, law enforcement, and civilian shooters alike. Its reputation for reliability, accuracy, and ergonomic design is well-deserved. However, even the most robust firearm requires proper care to maintain its performance and longevity. This means consistent cleaning and maintenance. Regular cleaning ensures smooth operation, minimizes the risk of malfunctions, and helps to preserve the value of your investment. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough on how to clean your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm effectively, helping you keep your firearm in top condition. We will focus on the essential elements of cleaning without getting into intricate gunsmithing procedures.
Safety is Paramount: Your Most Important Task
Before commencing any cleaning procedure, the absolute first and foremost priority is safety. Mishandling a firearm can have devastating consequences. Every time you handle your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm, even if you believe it to be unloaded, you must treat it as though it is loaded. This mindset is crucial for preventing accidental discharges and ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you.
The first step, and one that must be repeated before every cleaning session, is to visually inspect and physically confirm that the firearm is unloaded.
First, point the muzzle in a safe direction, away from yourself and any other individuals. This should ideally be a direction where a negligent discharge would cause no harm, such as a solid wall or a designated shooting range.
Next, remove the magazine from the firearm. Many potential accidental discharges occur because of a loaded magazine.
Then, lock the slide open. This can typically be done by pulling the slide fully to the rear and engaging the slide stop lever. This will keep the chamber open and visible.
Visually inspect the chamber to verify it is empty. Look through the ejection port and the chamber itself to make sure there are no rounds present. Use a flashlight if necessary to get a clear view.
Next, perform a physical check. Insert your finger into the chamber (again, pointing the firearm in a safe direction). Feel the inside of the chamber to ensure there are no live rounds.
Once you have confirmed, both visually and physically, that the firearm is unloaded, you can proceed to the cleaning process.
Safety is not limited to unloading; it is also critical to protect your eyes and hands. Always wear safety glasses to prevent any debris or cleaning solvents from entering your eyes. Wear gloves to protect your skin from the cleaning solvents and oils. It’s also recommended to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from the solvents.
Gathering Your Cleaning Arsenal: What You Need
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies on hand. This will make the cleaning process smoother and more efficient. Having everything prepared ahead of time also minimizes the time you’re handling the firearm. Here is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:
- Gun Cleaning Solvent: A good-quality solvent is essential for removing carbon, powder residue, and other contaminants. Popular choices include Hoppe’s No. 9, Break-Free Powder Blast, or Ballistol. Choose a solvent specifically designed for firearms.
- Gun Oil or Lubricant: After cleaning, you’ll need a lubricant to protect the metal surfaces from corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Many excellent CLP (Clean, Lubricate, and Protect) products are available. Other options include specialized gun oils or greases.
- Cleaning Rod with Jag or Loop: The cleaning rod will be used to push cleaning patches through the barrel. The jag is a tip that holds the patch, while a loop can be used with cleaning patches of various sizes. Make sure the rod is of the correct diameter for 9mm.
- Bore Brush: This brush is used to scrub the inside of the barrel and remove stubborn fouling. Make sure you use a 9mm bore brush.
- Patch Holder: This allows you to pass the patches through the barrel with precision.
- Cleaning Patches: You’ll need a generous supply of cleaning patches of appropriate size for your barrel. Having various sizes can also be helpful.
- Toothbrush or Small Brush: A small brush, like an old toothbrush, is invaluable for scrubbing hard-to-reach areas, such as the slide and frame.
- Small Screwdriver or Tool (Optional): Some models may require a small screwdriver or tool for the field stripping process. Most M&P 9mm models do not.
- Optional Tools: Q-tips, pipe cleaners, or other small tools can be helpful for detailed cleaning of hard-to-reach areas.
Dismantling Your M&P 9mm: Understanding Field Stripping
The process of field stripping your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm allows you to access the critical components that require cleaning. It’s a relatively straightforward procedure, but it is important to do it correctly. Again, always double and triple-check that the firearm is unloaded before you start. Familiarizing yourself with this procedure is key to cleaning your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm.
1. Ensure Safety: Repeat the safety check from the previous section. Make sure the firearm is completely unloaded. Remove the magazine. Lock the slide open, and visually and physically inspect the chamber.
2. Release the Slide: The Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm typically has a takedown lever located on the left side of the frame. With the magazine removed and the slide locked back, rotate the takedown lever downward.
3. Remove the Slide from the Frame: Grasp the slide with both hands. Gently pull the slide rearward. As you pull it rearward, allow the slide to move forward off the frame. The slide should slide forward and off the frame.
4. Disassemble the Guide Rod and Spring: Remove the recoil spring assembly from the slide. The guide rod and spring will usually come out as a single unit. Some M&P 9mm models may have a captive spring that you can’t remove.
5. Remove the Barrel: Remove the barrel from the slide. It usually lifts out with relative ease.
During this disassembly, take the time to visually inspect all the parts for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. This is a good opportunity to catch any problems before they become serious. Check the barrel for any bulges, cracks, or excessive wear. Inspect the slide for any cracks or damage. Make sure the frame rails are in good condition.
Cleaning the Component Parts: The Essential Steps
With your M&P 9mm field-stripped, you can now proceed to cleaning the individual components. Follow these steps carefully:
Cleaning the Barrel
1. Apply Solvent: Dip a cleaning patch in your chosen gun cleaning solvent.
2. Pass the Patch Through the Barrel: Attach the patch to the jag or loop on your cleaning rod. Insert the rod into the chamber end of the barrel and push it all the way through, exiting at the muzzle. Do this several times, rotating the rod slightly after each pass.
3. Use the Bore Brush: Attach the 9mm bore brush to the cleaning rod. Dip the brush in the solvent. Insert the brush into the chamber end of the barrel and scrub the entire length of the bore with a back-and-forth motion. Scrub the barrel at least ten to fifteen times to remove any fouling or buildup.
4. Remove Fouling: Remove the brush and wipe it clean. Then, use a clean patch soaked in solvent to push through the barrel. Repeat this process with clean patches until they come out clean, with no visible residue. If the patches are still dirty, repeat steps 2-4.
5. Ensure Dryness: Finally, run a dry patch through the barrel to remove any remaining solvent or moisture. Inspect the bore with a flashlight to ensure it is clean and dry.
Cleaning the Slide
1. Solvent and Brush: Apply gun cleaning solvent to the slide, focusing on areas with heavy carbon buildup, such as the breech face, the extractor, and the ejector. Use a toothbrush or small brush to scrub away carbon and fouling.
2. Detail Cleaning: Pay close attention to the extractor, as it often accumulates a significant amount of debris. Use a Q-tip or pipe cleaner, if necessary, to clean tight spaces.
3. Wipe Down: Use a clean cloth or patch to wipe down the slide, removing any remaining solvent or residue.
Cleaning the Frame
1. Wipe Down: Use a solvent-dampened cloth or patch to wipe down the frame. Pay particular attention to the frame rails, where the slide rides, and the trigger mechanism. Be careful not to saturate the trigger mechanism excessively with solvent.
2. Brush and Q-Tips: Use a toothbrush or small brush to scrub any areas with visible fouling or residue. Use Q-tips or pipe cleaners to clean any difficult-to-reach areas.
Magazine Maintenance (Briefly)
1. Disassembly (If Applicable): Some magazines can be disassembled for thorough cleaning. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific magazine model.
2. Wipe Down: Wipe down the magazine body with a clean cloth.
3. Clean the Follower: Clean the magazine follower to remove any debris that could hinder proper feeding.
Lubrication: The Key to Smooth Operation
Once all the components are clean, it is time to lubricate the key areas to ensure smooth and reliable operation. Proper lubrication is crucial for preventing wear, reducing friction, and protecting against corrosion. However, it’s important to use the right lubricant and apply it correctly.
1. Lubrication Points: Identify the lubrication points on your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm. These typically include:
- Slide rails: Apply a thin layer of oil or grease to the frame rails where the slide travels.
- Barrel hood: Lightly lubricate the top of the barrel hood, where it contacts the slide.
- Guide rod: Apply a thin layer of oil to the guide rod and spring.
- Trigger mechanism: If recommended by your owner’s manual, you may need to lubricate certain parts of the trigger mechanism, but use extreme caution and very little lubricant.
2. Apply Lubricant Sparingly: Use only a small amount of lubricant. More is not better. Excess lubricant can attract dirt and debris, potentially leading to malfunctions.
3. Reassembly: Reassemble the firearm in the reverse order of disassembly, ensuring all parts are properly aligned.
Final Checks and Reassembly
Once the firearm is lubricated and reassembled, there are some final steps to ensure that everything is working correctly.
1. Function Check: Perform a thorough function check. Rack the slide several times to ensure smooth operation. Dry-fire the pistol (again, *always* making sure the firearm is unloaded) to verify the trigger mechanism is functioning. Check the magazine release and ensure the magazine seats and ejects properly.
2. Final Wipe Down: Wipe down the exterior of the firearm with a clean cloth to remove any excess oil or lubricant.
Storing Your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm: Secure and Responsible
Proper storage is a critical part of firearm safety and responsibility. After cleaning and lubricating your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm, it should be stored securely. Store your firearm in a locked safe or cabinet. Store it separately from ammunition. This will help prevent accidental access by unauthorized individuals.
Wrapping Up: Maintenance for a Dependable Weapon
Cleaning your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm regularly is an essential practice for any responsible gun owner. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your firearm in top condition, ensuring its reliable performance and extending its lifespan. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your particular model of Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm.
Practice safe handling techniques, and always treat every firearm with the utmost respect. Regular maintenance and responsible ownership are paramount in enjoying your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm and promoting gun safety.
Finally, if you are not comfortable with any portion of the cleaning process, consult a qualified gunsmith.
Additional Thoughts and Considerations
How Often to Clean: The frequency of cleaning will depend on how often you use your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm and the types of ammunition you’re using. A general rule is to clean your firearm after every shooting session. If you’re firing a high volume of rounds, you may need to clean it more frequently. If the firearm is not used for a long period, a light cleaning and lubrication are always recommended.
Cleaning Tools: There are many different types of gun cleaning tools available. Consider investing in a good-quality cleaning kit that includes various brushes, jags, and patches. A magnetic parts tray can also be very useful for keeping track of small parts during disassembly.
Addressing Issues: Sometimes, even with regular cleaning, issues can arise. If you experience malfunctions, such as failures to feed or failures to eject, it may be a sign of a more serious problem. Consult a qualified gunsmith to diagnose and repair the issue.
When to Consult a Gunsmith: It’s important to know your limits. If you encounter any issue you’re uncomfortable addressing yourself, or if you’re unsure about any aspect of the cleaning process, consult a qualified gunsmith. They have the expertise to diagnose and repair any problems with your firearm.
By understanding and implementing the practices covered in this article, you’re taking an active role in preserving the performance and safety of your Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm for years to come. Remember, the proper care you give your firearm is a direct reflection of your commitment to responsible gun ownership.
