Cleaning tools (newbie)

[BF]

When I sit down to clean my new/first AK, I'd like the process to be as simple and correct as possible. That is, I don't want to try to use half-appropriate stuff and then try to awkwardly make it work for the AK.

I don't have the AK tool kit that sometimes comes with the AK... don't even know what that includes.

Anyway, what are the best and most appropriate things to have on hand when doing a thorough cleaning of an AK?

Where are these things most easily found?

I've only cleaned the thing in my own homespun way one time..and didn't attempt to clean the skinny gas tube area... so not sure how to best approach that.

Thanks for any advice.

Kelton
(I figure gunsmithing people would best know the answer to this)

[Etek]

You will need a cleaning kit first in order to clean the barrel and chamber. Otherwise get some gun solvent,gun oil and you ex-wife's toothbrush.

[BF]

Well, I have googled for that... and the kits I have seen look to be nothing more than the rod, brass brush tip, and a toothbrush.
I have that... not sure if I have the perfect sized brass brush, though.

I'm more curious about cleaning tools that are really well suited for the AK in particular... and that gas tube, too.
Not just, "well, this will work ok".

Kelton

[allesennogwat]

A standard aluminum shaft, plastic tipped rifle cleaning rod. A plastic coated rod is even better. 223, 5.45 and 5.56 might require a 22 caliber cleaning rod. Gun cleaning patches for the caliber, 30 or 22. Maybe a brass bore brush for the caliber but it's not required. Standard gun powder solvent and gun oil can be used. A product called "CLP" (clean, lubricate, protect) can be used as one product in place of both solvent and oil. For shooting the inside of the barrel bore, gas tube and gas piston should be dry and free of oil. For storage a light coat of oil (especially in the gas tube) will help prevent rust, but should be wiped dry before use. Some clean rags or even paper towels come in handy. If anything gets on the plastic or wood, clean it off to avoid staining the finish but it shouldn't really hurt it. The AK tool kit holder acts as a tool to unlock the gas tube. It's not required to unlock it every time and the lever can work loose. The lever can break and the tool kit holder is the safest way to open it. It can be opened with a pair of pliers if required but not recommended. Even with a lack of powder solvent, oil cleans fairly well by itself. Enough to prevent rust and keep the rifle functional.

[Etek]

The AK cleaning kit is a marvel of a self contained multi-tool box.
The cap is a barrel crown protector and is the first thing one puts on the cleaning rod after the Tee handle.
The housing IS the Tee handle for the cleaning rod, a slotted 'wrench' for the gas tube dismounting lever, and a wrench to hold the screwdriver. The screwdriver is also a front sight tool and also tightens the jag.
The jag is used in conjunction with the cleaning rod to clean the barrel and the rod (On most AKs) is also slotted for a cleaning rag or patch and can also be used to clean the gas tube. The brush is used to clean both the chamber and barrel.
The last tool (Yes one more!) is used to take the bolt apart AND align the trigger and hammer pins for re-assembly.

You need one. And it is the size of a lipstick.

And it costs about $5.00

[BF]

Very cool replies!

Thanks Etek and Allensonnogwat!

[allesennogwat]

You may want rubber gloves and be outside in open air too and have a few pages of old newspaper.

[Kaleb]

If you have the $$$ you'll find the Otis kits very cool and you can toss it in your range bag

[thumper]

Ragheads use a knotted shoestring dunked in old crank drain oil.
And if it ever malfunctions or sustains damage, they beat it back into shape with a rock.
And it does not quit. It will not stop. It will continue its' purpose even after it is completely wore out.
Don't sweat it, man. You can't hurt one.

[halmbarte]

The manual has instructions (with pics) on how to use the cleaning capsule tools. https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=...NWNhODZl&hl=en

[nalioth]

Originally Posted by Etek

The AK cleaning kit is a marvel of a self contained multi-tool box.
The cap is a barrel crown protector and is the first thing one puts on the cleaning rod after the Tee handle.
The housing IS the Tee handle for the cleaning rod, a slotted 'wrench' for the gas tube dismounting lever, and a wrench to hold the screwdriver. The screwdriver is also a front sight tool and also tightens the jag.
The jag is used in conjunction with the cleaning rod to clean the barrel and the rod (On most AKs) is also slotted for a cleaning rag or patch and can also be used to clean the gas tube. The brush is used to clean both the chamber and barrel.
The last tool (Yes one more!) is used to take the bolt apart AND align the trigger and hammer pins for re-assembly.

You need one. And it is the size of a lipstick.

And it costs about $5.00

Not every country included "the last tool" with their cleaning kits.

Here's a pictorial of Etek's description: Butt stock toolkit uses - Romanian Kalashnikov Rifles

. . . and I concur - everyone needs an AK cleaning kit. They're cheap, and fit in the butt stock of lots of Kalashnikovs.

[ronin]

I have never used an AK specific one all these years. I just use .30 cal brushes, etc. I don't have a 74 but if I did I'd just use my .223 tools. I also use CLP and Ed's Red theze days.

[Etek]

The SKS kit is quite similar to the AK kit and can also be used.
The screwdriver and takedown pin are incorporated into one folding tool in the SKS kit.