If you were to count every revolver model and variant on the market, the tally would climb into the hundreds. Depending on the production year and model, your revolver might have three, four or five screws. You’ll quickly discover how many yours has when it comes time to clean your revolver.

Today, most modern revolvers feature three screws, though some models retain the classic five-screw design. So, how do you clean a revolver? As you’ll see below, revolver cleaning is straightforward with the right approach. Your owner’s manual and credible handgun maintenance guides are always helpful resources.

Clear the Revolver

Before cleaning a revolver, safety comes first. Always clear your handgun before beginning maintenance. Follow the four firearms safety rules:

  1. Treat all firearms as if they are loaded.
  2. Never point the firearm at anything you’re not willing to shoot.
  3. Keep your finger off the trigger until you have made the decision to shoot.
  4. Know your target and understand what is beyond it.
A stainless-steel Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus, seven-shot .357 magnum revolver field stripped to its component parts for cleaning

The Smith & Wesson 686 Plus prepped for a routine cleaning session. (Kat Ainsworth)

To clean a revolver safely, start by releasing the cylinder latch to swing the cylinder out from the frame. With the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, rotate the gun muzzle-up and push the ejector rod to empty the chambers. Visually and physically check each chamber to confirm it is clear.

Even after confirming it’s empty, continue to treat the revolver as if it were loaded. Making this a habit reinforces safe gun-handling — the most important skill a gun owner can develop.

The Takedown: Prepping for Revolver Cleaning

When doing a basic revolver cleaning, little disassembly is needed:

  1. Verify your revolver is unloaded.
  2. Remove the grip panels or sleeve.
    • If a panel is stuck and the screws are fully loosened, gently nudge it free using your fingertip. Avoid tools that might damage the grip or frame.
    • Use gunsmith-specific screwdrivers. Ill-fitting bits can slip and damage the screw or frame. Oversized bits may gouge the revolver’s finish or not fit recessed screws.
    • For basic cleaning, do not remove the side plate or disassemble the cylinder — both can be cleaned effectively while assembled.
    • Never attempt to remove the barrel or barrel shroud. This requires a qualified gunsmith.
  3. Release the cylinder latch and swing the cylinder out.
    • If your revolver has a solid frame and gate-loading system, rotate the cylinder manually to access each chamber.

These steps serve as a foundation for revolver maintenance and make routine cleaning simple and safe.

The silver shaft of a BROWNELLS gunsmithing screwdriver has been inserted into the grip screw of a Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus .357 Magnum revolver as the gun lies on a white drop cloth beside an orange BROWNELLS box

Use properly sized screwdriver bits like those in the Brownells Magna-Tip Super Set to avoid damaging your revolver. (Kat Ainsworth)

How to Clean a Revolver: Step-by-Step

There are many options when it comes to cleaning a handgun. I typically use SEAL 1 CLP Plus, a non-toxic, multipurpose cleaner designed to cut carbon buildup, lubricate and protect. Find a product that works for you, and don’t worry about what social media “experts” claim is best.

Tip: Smith & Wesson recommends cleaning and lubricating your revolver after each use, and whenever it’s exposed to sand, dust, extreme humidity or water. Avoid excessive ultrasonic cleaning or prolonged solvent immersion. Never use ammoniated or alkaline-based cleaners.

  1. Clean the Barrel
    • Saturate a brass bore brush with cleaning solvent.
    • Run the brush through the bore several times, reapplying solvent as needed.
    • Always clean from the chamber end, not the muzzle.
    • This step helps scrub the bore and loosen fouling for easier patch cleaning.
  1. Use Cleaning Patches
    • Switch to a cleaning rod with a jag — a small attachment that holds and pushes cleaning patches through the barrel — and thread a pre-saturated SEAL Skinz patch (or saturate a dry one yourself).
    • Run patches through the barrel until they come out clean.
    • Finish with one final patch to lightly lubricate the bore.
  1. Clean the Cylinder Chambers
    • Use a properly sized brass bore brush saturated with solvent to scrub each chamber.
    • Run the bore brush through each chamber of the cylinder.
    • Run one final patch through each to lightly lubricate them.
  1. Wipe the Frame
    • Use a soft rag dampened with solvent or lubricant to clean the frame.
    • Pay special attention to the area under the grips where dirt and dust accumulate.
  1. Lubricate the Revolver
    • Lightly coat the exterior of the revolver using a clean rag.
    • Use a dry patch on a jag to remove excess fluid from the bore and chambers.
  1. Reassemble
    • Reattach the grips and verify that all components are secure.

 These gun cleaning tips offer a consistent process you can rely on after each session at the range or in the field.

Close-up of the loading gate in a filigreed black Traditions 1873 Liberty single-action revolver. The brass base and primer of a SIG .45 Long Colt round can be seen in the exposed chamber. The barrel loses focus as it points at the bright green grass in the background.

Clean a gate-loaded revolver like the Traditions 1873 Liberty by manually rotating the cylinder, just as you would when loading or unloading. (Kat Ainsworth)

Why Cleaning Your Revolver Matters

Regular revolver cleaning keeps your firearm reliable and safe. Whether you use it for self-defense, hunting or recreational shooting, regular maintenance ensures consistent performance.

These proper firearms cleaning practices are essential not just for preserving your gun’s condition but for ensuring it functions when you need it most. How to clean a handgun isn’t just about appearance — it’s about safety, reliability and extending the life of your firearm.

Next Step for New Revolver Owners

If you’re new to wheelguns, don’t miss what to expect when shooting a revolver for the first time. It walks you through recoil, loading, grip and more — so you’re better prepared before hitting the range.

Also, if you’re carrying a revolver for personal protection, check out this guide to the best concealed carry revolvers. This guide breaks down top options and features to consider when choosing a defensive wheelgun.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How do you clean a revolver?
To clean a revolver, ensure it’s unloaded, remove the grips and use a brass bore brush with solvent to scrub the barrel and cylinder chambers. Follow up with cleaning patches, wipe down the frame and lightly lubricate the firearm before reassembling.

Should you use a semi-auto pistol or revolver for concealed carry?
Great question. In this informational video, USCCA Director of Content and Executive Editor of Concealed Carry Magazine Kevin Michalowski demonstrates the pros and cons of both types of handguns.
▶️ Watch: Should You Carry a Semi-Auto or Revolver?

How often should I clean my revolver?
Smith & Wesson recommends cleaning after every use or exposure to moisture, dust or extreme conditions. Routine cleaning also ensures functionality and long-term reliability.