No doubt you take your time caring for your rifle. You know by instinct how to unload, perform a partial or complete take-down probably with your eyes closed, even when using the cleaning rod with a jag. But be honest with us, when was the last time you performed weapon sight and optics maintenance?
How to Clean your Scope
The process of cleaning your scope can be divided into two parts—cleaning the lenses and cleaning the outer casing. You'll find your lenses will need the most attention more often than the body, but that doesn't mean you should split the two cleaning processes. Do it all at once and at least once a month for a rifle that is used on the regular.
Cleaning the Scope Lenses
The first thing to tackle is dusting the lenses. This gently removes fine particles to prevent micro-scratches, which turn out to be one of the most significant issues with the lens's ability to focus correctly. Make sure to use a lens dust brush made of unique, soft bristles that removes all dust and debris without scratching.
Next, use a microfiber cloth to clean away any oils or smudges from the lenses. Ensure you keep your microfiber cleaned by handwashing in lukewarm water with a bit of detergent that does not have softeners to remove accumulated dirt and oil occasionally.
Clean The Rest of the Scope
Buttons, turrets, O-rings, screws, and all other parts of your scope will require attention from time to time, even if they don't appear dirty to the naked eye.
- Detach the scope, unscrew turrets
- Use Q-tips to thoroughly clean hard-to-reach places.
- Don't apply the cleaning solution directly onto the metal parts.
- Clean rifle's rail and O-rings.
- Use only a damp cloth to clean the outer casing.
You may have additional items that are left after the clean-up process. Many budget night vision scopes use removable batteries with terminals that may rust. Clean those every now and then to help prevent the scope's internals from getting fried to improve its service life significantly.
When you're done, you need to re-zero your scope, and this step is critical. As a whole, knowing how to maintain all the parts of your rifle, especially your scope, is always a plus as it prolongs the life of the scope and the rifle, ensuring maximum performance, precision, safety, and return in your investment.