Hunter Tip: How to Clear a Plugged Gun Barrel
You keep your firearm in top condition . . . until you stumble in the mud.
When you pick up the rifle, you see the barrel end is covered with mud – and it's likely gunked inside the barrel, too.
You have two options: ignore the mud and debris and shoot at your target anyway (before it gets away). You're in the woods, so everything is a little dirty, right? It's part of the hunting experience.
Or, you could make a better choice: stop, prioritize firearm safety, and clear the gun's barrel with our safety tips before putting your sights back on the buck.
We recommend option two! So, keep reading to learn why keeping your gun's barrel clear is crucial and how to clear it if it gets clogged.
Why a Plugged Gun Barrel is Dangerous
You might think the momentum of a bullet can push it through anything that accidentally fell into the barrel of your firearm. In some cases, that can be true.
However, that doesn't mean it's not incredibly dangerous to fire a rifle or shotgun with a barrel obstruction. It is a terrible idea to fire it without clearing the obstruction first!
Even a small amount of debris in a firearm's barrel can lead to increased pressure, causing it to bulge or burst. If this happens, you and any nearby hunters could suffer an injury.
Even if you feel like you don't have time to clear a gun that fell into the mud before the buck in your sights moves away, don't risk your safety by taking the shot before making sure the rifle isn't plugged.
There will always be another buck!
How to Quickly Clear a Plugged Gun
When you have a buck in your sights, time is of the essence – but safety must come first.
How can you quickly clear the gunk out of your gun barrel and get back on the hunt? Follow these steps:
- First, get to safe footing.
- Open the action and unload your gun.
- Remove the barrel according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
- Pull the portable cleaning rod out of your hunting kit and use it to push the mud or other debris out of the barrel from the breech end.
- Flip your rod around and use the other end to polish your barrel with a cloth.
Now that your barrel is clear reassemble your firearm and get back to the hunt!
To see the steps above in action, check out the video below.
Remember, certain carry positions provide better protection against brush and other debris that could clog your barrel. Ensure you carry your firearm in a way that is safe for you, your companions, and the terrain.
Learn to Carry Your Firearm Safely to Prevent a Clogged Barrel
If you're not sure how to carry your rifle to prevent barrel obstructions, we talk about safely transporting firearms in our state-approved hunter safety courses. We also walk through cleaning firearms and storing them correctly so they're ready for your next hunt.
Most states require hunters to have a safety certification before buying a hunting license. If you're planning your next hunt, make sure everyone in your hunting group has this critical education so everyone stays safe! Hunter-Ed courses are online and easy to complete using your mobile device or a computer.
Find the course for your state and start learning! You'll have access to our online study guide for free.
Originally published November 19, 2015. Content updated December 11, 2023.
