10ML-II Storage Preparation

[ET1]

It’s that time again for giving my 10ML-II a complete cleaning before it begins its hibernation in my gun safe. Below is my method for preparation.
First off, I clean the bore without removing the BP. This helps to prevent a lot of crud being pushed into the BP threads. Once the bore is clean, I remove the BP and run a couple of dry swabs through the whole bore.


Cleaning and checking the BP doesn’t have to be awkward. To handle the BP, I use a Channellock plyer.
Just a good grip on the snout of the BP allows one to do everything that needs to be done.

Then I run a 5/32 (.156”) bit with a drill through the BP, from the primer end. There’s no danger to the vent threads as the flame channel acts like guide keeping the drill centered. Now the thing to watch for is loose carbon collected into the vent threads that should be removed. A good blast of air or a 10/32 tap to chase the threads works for me.

I also make sure the primer pocket is clean by using a small caliber brush. Now if the carbon buildup is encroaching on the primer, I use a .234” drill and clean by hand.




The last thing I do is check vent orifice size in case it needs to be replaced. All that is left is applying anti seize to vent threads and BP threads before assembly.
Anway this is how I do old school cleaning of my 10ML-II.

[TroutSlayer]

Thanks for a great post!

[Muskyhunter]

Thanks. I love my 10ML. Have taken a couple of moose with mine and a bunch of deer but haven't had any ML hunting opportunities in the last few years. Oh well I will hang onto it just in case.

[kokes]

amazing firearm, had one and loved it!

[ET1]

I too enjoy having a 10ML II that produced one shot, one kill on deer. I have no intention of getting rid of it. There were times of frustration to get it to group well. Once I learned what I needed for a good load that changed everything.

[bellerivercrossbowhunter]

Great info. My 10MLii will be with me all of my hunting days. Unless JT bans it... lol

[Fenelon]

I’d be leery of using a hardened steel drill bit. You run the risk of scoring or scratching the metal in the plug. A good quality bore cleaner and brass jags and brushes is all that’s needed from my experience. I use KG industries products. Same stuff that’s used by many law enforcement agencies/ military. A 5 minute soak and it strips everything. I use a light coating of Swiss military machine gun grease (automatenfett) for storage. Same stuff i use on K31s? swede mausers, etc. The stuff is fantastic but getting hard to find.

[Marker]

I use hot water and soap to clean then coat the inside of my barrels with nipple grease, swab it out before the first shot by running a patch through it.

[delmer]

I see that you still use the OEM breech plug. I was having issues with spent primers sticking in the bolt face, so after a conversation with Cecil Epp from Precision Bullet, I made the switch to his aftermarket breech plug.

https://www.prbullet.com/s-breech.htm

I also use their vent liners.

https://www.prbullet.com/vl.htm

[ET1]

Delmer
I used the standard Savage BP for this post as most are familiar with it. I still experiment with it but my go to BP is a 3/8” diameter recessed BP. It provides a hotter and more reliable ignition IMO. The same cleaning procedure is employed.
I’ve never had a primer sticking issue but if you’re happy with your resolution stay with it.