How often should I clean a waterfowl shotgun?

Inspect and dry it after every wet outing. Clean more thoroughly when residue, moisture, malfunctions, or the manufacturer's service interval indicates it is needed — and always after salt or brackish water exposure.

Can I use gun oil on shotgun choke threads?

Use only what the shotgun and choke-tube manufacturers approve. Some systems require a specific choke-tube lubricant or anti-seize compound rather than general gun oil. Accuracy Oil will shine in this application.

How do I remove plastic wad fouling from a shotgun barrel?

Use a cleaner and technique approved for the barrel, follow the product's dwell-time instructions, and avoid aggressive abrasives unless the manufacturer allows them. If fouling is persistent, seek qualified service. By doing the one time barrel break-in with Spartan products and conditioning with Accuracy Oil, plastic wadding will be much easier to remove. You can also directly apply Accuracy Oil to the plastic wadding, let is set for a few minutes, and use it as a “cleaner” to effectively remove the plastic.

Why did my gas-operated shotgun stop cycling late in the season?

Carbon accumulation in the gas system is the most common cause, often combined with moisture or debris. Service the gas system per the manual, and check whether you have been oiling components specified to stay dry. Spartan products will mitigate this issue to a huge degree.

What should I do after hunting in salt water?

Address it promptly. Rinse exposed areas with fresh water where the manufacturer permits, dry thoroughly including hidden surfaces, and apply a protective film to exterior metal. Salt left on metal keeps working after the gun looks dry. Proper Cleaning with Nothing Left will remove the salts and is safe for use on all hard substrates.

Do I need to remove my choke tube for cleaning?

Periodically, yes. A tube left in place through a wet season can seize in the threads. Follow the manual's interval and use the approved lubricant or anti-seize when reinstalling. Using Accuracy Grease on the choke tube will make future removal and cleaning a breeze.

Is steel shot harder on a shotgun than lead?

It behaves differently. Steel is harder and does not deform like lead, which is why manufacturers restrict which chokes may be used with steel loads. Check your barrel and choke markings and the manual before pairing tight constrictions with steel.

How to Clean a Shotgun for Waterfowl Season | MSS

A practical shotgun-maintenance routine for waterfowl and bird season: moisture, bore, choke tubes, gas systems, nontoxic-shot considerations, and Modern Spartan Systems care.