[Jech]

Anyone can guess what logically needs to be cleaned after a good range session--bore, bolt exterior, inside of the action etc--. Likewise, one can guess where to apply the occasional drop of oil but I'm looking for something far more in depth.

I've recently purchased a used 336ss that appears externally to almost be new but I can tell it's had a couple hundred rounds through it. I want to know how to strip away whatever abuse the former owner may have subjected it to and completely recondition the interior of the weapon. Example, if he didn't break in the bore properly, I want to strip out every last bit of lead, copper or anything that may be left behind and re-break it in myself. What cleaning chemicals and tools do I need to do that?

Eli Chaps' thread on a basic action job is a great resource but I'm looking for something more along the maintenance line of things.

Thanks for any and all advice! ~ Jech

 

[GJinNY]

First of all, a BIG congrats on the 336SS. Kinda hits close to my own heart. ;D

Next, you will need the appropriate cleaning kit. They usually come with cleaning rods, brush, end loop, cloth patches, oil and nitro solvent.
It is a good idea to pick up some bore copper solvent too. There are many to choose from.
Only clean you gun from the back (hammer end) of the gun.

If there has been a few hundred rounds through it, there may not be too much to do but do a good bore cleaning with the copper solvent until the patches come out clean.
I went on YOUTUBE and typed in "Disassemble Marlin 336" and found a few videos that made it real easy to understand.

Also,With the lever and the action out, look around inside with a flashlight just to be sure there is no sand or grit.

I am sure you may have other opinions added but that is it in a nutshell.

Enjoy that new-top-you SS!
OH, almost forgot. This website requires pictures of your new Marlin!!!! ;D

 

[Jech]

I watched the disassembly videos you mentioned and I've had the action field-stripped...not courageous enough yet to do a full pins-and-springs teardown just yet! I noticed that after 45 rounds of hand loads using 34gr of H4895 at the range, the light coat of oil I applied to the bolt was very dirty looking. Is it safe to use the non-chlorinated brake cleaner I would usually use on my handguns then re-oil?

For a cleaning kit, I picked up the basic Hoppes .30cal kit, a .30cal Hoppes Boresnake and some Shooter's Choice MC#7 which as I understand is very aggressive but effective. For the moment, I only have jacketed bullets to load but soon, I'll only be feeding her a diet of cast boolits. I shoot nothing but cast in my handguns too so I'm used to going a while between cleanings...500rds+ in my .45auto and 150rds+ in my .357mag snubbie. How often do I need to do a basic field-strip & bore cleaning when shooting jacketed ammo? ...and what about when shooting cast only?