How to Clean the SPRINGFIELD ARMORY XDM
How to Clean the Springfield Armory XD-M Elite (Per Springfield Armory’s Owner’s Manual)
The Springfield Armory XD-M Elite is a high-performance, striker-fired pistol known for its accuracy and reliability. To keep your XD-M Elite operating smoothly, regular cleaning is essential. This guide outlines how to clean your XD-M Elite based on recommendations from the Springfield Armory owner’s manual.
What You’ll Need (click "Gun Cleaning Gear" in navigation menu for Amazon links):
Gun cleaning solvent
Lubricating oil
Cleaning patches
Bore brush and cleaning rod
Nylon brush or old toothbrush
Microfiber cloth
Cotton swabs
Step 1: Ensure the Firearm is Unloaded
Safety is the first priority! Always make sure your XD-M Elite is unloaded before you begin cleaning:
Remove the magazine by pressing the magazine release button.
Lock the slide open by pulling it back and engaging the slide stop lever.
Visually and physically check the chamber to ensure there is no live round or casing present.
Step 2: Disassemble the XD-M Elite
To properly clean your XD-M Elite, you will need to field strip the pistol:
Lock the slide open by pulling it to the rear and engaging the slide stop.
Rotate the takedown lever located on the left side of the frame upward to the vertical position.
While holding the slide, release the slide stop and carefully allow the slide to move forward off the frame.
Remove the recoil spring assembly by lifting it out from under the slide.
Remove the barrel by lifting it out of the slide.
Step 3: Clean the Barrel
Apply cleaning solvent to a bore brush and insert it into the chamber end of the barrel.
Run the brush back and forth through the barrel several times to loosen fouling and carbon buildup.
Use a cleaning patch on a cleaning rod to run through the barrel, repeating the process until the patches come out clean.
Wipe the outside of the barrel with a cloth or cleaning patch, especially focusing on the feed ramp and the chamber area.
Step 4: Clean the Slide
Use a nylon brush with solvent to scrub the slide rails, breech face, and extractor area to remove any built-up carbon and debris.
Use a cotton swab to clean the tight areas, including the firing pin channel and extractor.
Wipe down the slide with a clean cloth to remove any remaining solvent.
Step 5: Clean the Frame
Using a nylon brush, scrub the frame rails, trigger mechanism, and other internal parts where debris may accumulate.
Use a cotton swab or cleaning patch to wipe down the magazine well and remove any dust or dirt.
Clean any small crevices in the frame with a brush or cotton swab.
Step 6: Clean the Recoil Spring Assembly
Wipe down the recoil spring and guide rod using a solvent-soaked patch or cloth.
Be sure the recoil spring assembly is clean and free of any buildup before reassembly.
Step 7: Lubricate the XD-M Elite
Apply a small amount of gun oil to critical areas to ensure smooth operation:
Barrel exterior: Lightly lubricate the outside of the barrel, including the locking lug.
Slide rails: Apply a drop of oil along the slide rails to reduce friction during operation.
Recoil spring assembly: Lightly oil the spring and guide rod.
Frame rails: Apply oil to the frame rails and any other moving parts inside the frame.
Tip: Avoid over-oiling the gun, as excess oil can attract dirt and debris.
Step 8: Reassemble the XD-M Elite
Once all parts are clean and lightly lubricated, follow these steps to reassemble the pistol:
Place the barrel back into the slide.
Reinstall the recoil spring assembly by inserting it back under the slide.
Align the slide with the frame and guide it back onto the rails.
Pull the slide fully to the rear and engage the slide stop to lock the slide open.
Rotate the takedown lever back to its original horizontal position.
Release the slide by pulling it slightly back and letting it move forward.
Step 9: Function Check
After reassembling your XD-M Elite, perform a function check to ensure everything is working correctly:
Rack the slide back and forth to ensure smooth operation.
Dry fire the gun to confirm the trigger and striker mechanism are functioning properly.
Note: Always make sure the firearm is unloaded before performing any dry firing.
Step 10: Final Wipe Down
Wipe down the exterior of your XD-M Elite with a microfiber cloth to remove any excess oil, moisture, or fingerprints. This step helps protect the finish and prevents corrosion.
Conclusion
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your Springfield Armory XD-M Elite will keep it running smoothly and extend its life. Following these steps ensures that your firearm stays in optimal condition, ready for your next shooting session.