Rifle Cleaning On An African Hunt

A small compact rifle cleaning kit or a bore snake is really all you need to bring on an African hunting safari.

Unless your rifle gets extremely wet or dirty, there is no need to give it any deep cleaning attention while you are hunting.

  • Due to airline restrictions on flammable fluids in checked baggage, don't attempt to bring rifle cleaning fluids. Your PH will have something you could use if necessary.
  • You do not need to overdo the cleaning whilst on safari but it a good plan to give it the odd going over, especially if the rifle has been out in the rain.
  • Try not to over-oil the rifle. As you know, oil in the barrel may cause a different point of impact on the first shot. Also gun oil on the outside makes for more shine and acts as a magnet to dust.
  • Bring some insulation or duct tape to cover the end of the barrel to prevent dust and other debris getting in.
  • Always clean your own rifle on safari - never give your rifle to your PH or any other staff member to clean.

Rifle Cleaning Kits And Bore Snakes

One of the Hoppe's rifle bore snakes is recommended as the fastest bore cleaner - one pass loosens large particles, scrubs out the remaining residue with a bronze brush, then swabs it all spotless with a cleaning area 160 times larger than a standard patch.

Alternatively, assemble your own cleaning kit in a travel-size pouch, minus the cleaning fluid.


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Page Updated: Mar 2024



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