Regular cleaning and maintenance of your Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 pistol ensure optimal performance, reliability, and longevity. Follow this step-by-step guide to properly clean your firearm.

What You’ll Need:

• Firearm cleaning mat or towel

• Safety glasses (optional)

• Gun cleaning solvent

• Gun oil/lubricant

• Cleaning patches

• Bore brush (caliber-specific)

• Cleaning rod or bore snake

• Nylon brush or toothbrush

• Microfiber cloth or lint-free rag

• Cotton swabs

• Small screwdriver (if applicable for disassembly)

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

1. Unload the Firearm – Remove the magazine and lock the slide back to ensure the chamber is empty.

2. Visually and Physically Inspect – Look and feel inside the chamber to confirm there is no ammunition present.

3. Move to a Safe Workspace – Work in a well-ventilated area away from ammunition.

Step 2: Disassemble the Pistol

1. Lock the Slide Back – Pull the slide to the rear and engage the slide stop.

2. Rotate the Takedown Lever – Turn the lever downward (90 degrees) to the takedown position.

3. Release the Slide – Pull the trigger while controlling the slide as it moves forward.

4. Remove the Slide – Carefully remove the slide from the frame.

5. Extract the Recoil Spring and Barrel – Lift out the recoil spring assembly and then remove the barrel.

Step 3: Clean the Barrel

1. Apply Solvent – Dip a cleaning patch in solvent and run it through the barrel using a cleaning rod or bore snake.

2. Use a Bore Brush – Scrub the inside of the barrel with a bore brush to break down carbon buildup.

3. Run Clean Patches – Pass dry patches through the barrel until they come out clean.

4. Inspect the Barrel – Hold the barrel up to the light and check for any residue.

Step 4: Clean the Slide

1. Wipe Down the Slide – Use a solvent-soaked cloth to remove carbon deposits.

2. Scrub Small Crevices – Use a nylon brush or cotton swabs to clean the rails and internal components.

3. Dry the Slide – Wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove any excess solvent.

Step 5: Clean the Frame

1. Wipe Down the Frame – Use a microfiber cloth to clean the polymer frame.

2. Clean the Rails – Use a cotton swab with solvent to clean debris from the slide rails.

3. Check the Trigger Mechanism – Ensure no buildup is affecting trigger movement.

Step 6: Lubricate the Pistol

1. Apply a Small Amount of Gun Oil – Place a few drops of oil on the following areas:

   • Barrel exterior

   • Slide rails

   • Contact points between slide and frame

   • Recoil spring assembly

2. Spread the Lubricant Evenly – Use a cloth or cotton swab to distribute the oil evenly.

3. Avoid Over-Lubrication – Too much oil can attract dirt and cause malfunctions.

Step 7: Reassemble the Pistol

1. Insert the Barrel and Recoil Spring – Place the barrel back into the slide, followed by the recoil spring assembly.

2. Slide the Upper onto the Frame – Align the slide with the rails and push it back into position.

3. Lock the Slide Back – Engage the slide stop to keep the slide open.

4. Rotate the Takedown Lever Up – Return it to the locked position.

5. Function Check – Rack the slide, pull the trigger (ensure the firearm is still unloaded), and check for smooth operation.

Step 8: Final Inspection and Storage

1. Wipe Down the Exterior – Use a clean cloth to remove fingerprints and excess oil.

2. Check for Residue – Ensure all parts are clean and lubricated properly.

3. Store the Firearm Safely – Keep your pistol in a dry, secure place away from unauthorized users.

Regular cleaning of your Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 pistol ensures reliable operation and longevity. By following this guide, you can keep your firearm in peak condition and ready for use whenever needed. Always prioritize safety and follow manufacturer recommendations for maintenance.