New M&P22 Cleaning Question

Scopes · #1 12-25-2014, 06:09 PM

I've always used Tipton carbon rods for all calibers but I find it impossible not to seriously rub the ejector while cleaning. So my question is do you rod guys just not worry about the ejector rub?
Also, the brass brush takes an extreme amount of force and even the paper-thin patches are next to impossible to get through the barrel in this model. I am tempted to get the viper snake for this gun even though I prefer more thorough cleanings.

CarrieC · #2 12-25-2014, 07:42 PM

I've been using a brass rod and patches since I got mine almost two years ago. I cut my own .22 patches and they are tiny, about 3/4" square. I think a lot of the blab about damaging the rifling and crown comes from steel rod use. Steel is all I was ever issued in the military and of course we never had crown guards or muzzle protectors of any kind for cleaning. The brush should start pretty easy coming from the breech because there is slightly more clearance in the chamber. It also helps to run a well soaked patch through the bore and let it sit for a bit before you brush. I don't notice excessive rubbing on the ejector when I clean but I will watch more closely next time. If I assume you know all this and are still having problems, maybe wrong size/spec brush? Good luck working it out.

Scopes · #3 12-25-2014, 10:01 PM

Yep, patch size is right, and the brush size as well. I was so thrown off by this I even broke out a ruler. I thought bore size was bore size and I use the same brand of brass brushes and patches for my other barrel sizes as well. Never had this issue before. As I said the pistol is new, so I was just wondering if there was something I was missing here. The rubbing does bother me and I think it was odd for the ejector to be placed there if the barrel can't be removed. I think I will give the viper snake a try.

Thanks guys.

Louchia · #4 12-25-2014, 10:31 PM

I agree, patch size should be 3/4x3/4 in. If it's still tight you probably have lead fouling from LRN ammo.

hoc9sw · #5 12-25-2014, 11:31 PM

This is a .22 Compact as opposed to M&P .22 I suspect. I see the saw tendency with my .22 Compact, and am just extra careful to keep the rod straight. There is really no clearance, and some collision seems inevitable.

I use a simple one piece brass rod.

Louchia · #6 12-26-2014, 01:27 PM

If cleaning the barrel is really difficult because of lead deposits, it can easily be removed. Remove the threaded bushing on the muzzle end of the barrel with the supplied wrench. The barrel sleeve then comes off and the barrel can be slipped rearward and out. If need be, the barrel can be soaked in a container of bore cleaner. Also the cleaning rod is now more easily pushed through.
Easier yet, just clear the bore as you would a revolver. Push the rod from the muzzle end.

huntrfishr1 · #7 12-27-2014, 06:51 PM

I have the same problem with my .22 compact, if you're careful, I don't think you'll hurt the ejector, since it has a bit of play in it. I have a couple of flexible rod/brush combinations that came with my Hammerli 280 that work well for the Smith and I'm they're available for sale out there somewhere.