During maintenance, which part of the firearm is typically cleaned last?

The barrel is typically cleaned last during firearm maintenance for several reasons. One primary consideration is that the barrel is often subjected to the most fouling from the ammunition fired through it. As a result, cleaning it thoroughly can be a more involved process that may require specific tools, such as a bore brush, patches, and solvent.

Cleaning the barrel last allows the technician or user to address the solid residues and fouling present after other parts, such as the slide and frame, have been cleaned and inspected. This order is efficient, as it prevents debris potentially dislodged while cleaning other components from falling into the freshly cleaned barrel. Additionally, cleaning the barrel after other components helps ensure that any cleaning solvents or solutions do not inadvertently enter the barrel prematurely, allowing for optimal drying and finish after the entire firearm has been serviced.

Thus, by ending the cleaning process with the barrel, one ensures that it receives the attention it requires at the final step, resulting in a well-maintained firearm ready for reliable use.