How to Clean Residue from Your Firearm & Compensator
Residue buildup is completely normal—it’s just carbon and fouling left behind from firing. Over time, it can collect on your firearm and compensator, especially around muzzle devices. The good news? It’s easy to clean off, and it doesn’t damage or remove your Cerakote finish when handled properly.
Important note: We’ve seen cases where people try to scrub off the residue too aggressively, which actually ends up polishing the carbon rather than removing it. This can give the illusion that the Cerakote is coming off—but it’s really just shiny residue left behind.
Regular maintenance keeps your setup performing smoothly and helps prolong the life of your gear. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to properly clean that buildup and get your firearm looking and functioning like it should.
What You’ll Need:
- Firearm cleaning solvent - We use Breakthrough Clean Technologies Suppressor Cleaner
- Nylon or brass brush
- Cotton swabs
- Microfiber cloth or cleaning patches
- Gun oil or lubricant
- Gloves (optional)
- Bowl or Container
Instructions:
- Ensure Safety
- Unload your firearm completely.
- Remove the magazine and check the chamber.
- Engage the safety.
- Disassemble
- Field strip your firearm according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Remove the compensator
- Apply Solvent
- Pour Breakthrough Clean Suppressor Cleaner into a small bowl or container, then place your compensator (and any other small parts with heavy carbon buildup) into the solution.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour to loosen buildup.
- Scrub Residue
- Use a nylon or brass brush to gently scrub the treated areas.
- Use cotton swabs for hard-to-reach spots and internal edges.
- Wipe Clean
- Use a microfiber cloth or patches to wipe away the loosened residue and solvent.
- Reapply and repeat scrubbing if necessary.
- Inspect
- Confirm that all residue is removed and no buildup remains.
- Lubricate
- Lightly oil moving parts per your firearm’s guidelines.
- Don’t overdo it—just a protective coat where needed.
- Reassemble
- Put your firearm and compensator back together.
- Confirm everything is properly installed and tightened.
- Function Check
- Perform a quick function check to ensure smooth operation.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean after each range session to prevent carbon from caking on.
- The suppressor cleaner we use is safe for Cerakote and anodize and doesn’t strip your finish.
- Routine care = optimal performance and longer-lasting gear.