How to Clean the Sig Sauer MPX Copperhead (Per Sig Sauer's Owner’s Manual)

The Sig Sauer MPX Copperhead is a compact, reliable, and innovative submachine gun designed for tactical and personal defense use. Keeping this firearm clean is essential for maintaining its reliability and overall performance. This guide will walk you through the proper steps to clean your MPX Copperhead based on Sig Sauer’s owner’s manual recommendations.

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 toothbrush

• Microfiber cloth

• Cotton swabs

Step 1: Ensure the MPX Copperhead is Unloaded

Before starting the cleaning process, ensure your firearm is unloaded:

1. Remove the magazine by pressing the magazine release button.

2. Lock the bolt open by pulling the charging handle to the rear and engaging the bolt catch.

3. Check the chamber to make sure it’s clear of any rounds or casings.

Step 2: Disassemble the MPX Copperhead

To properly clean your MPX Copperhead, you need to field strip it:

1. Separate the upper and lower receiver by pushing out the front and rear takedown pins.

2. Remove the charging handle and bolt assembly from the upper receiver.

3. Remove the recoil spring assembly from the upper receiver.

4. Remove the barrel and gas system components for a more thorough cleaning.

Step 3: Clean the Barrel

1. Apply cleaning solvent to a bore brush and insert it into the chamber end of the barrel.

2. Run the bore brush back and forth several times to remove fouling and carbon buildup.

3. Follow with a cleaning patch on a cleaning rod to wipe out the loosened debris. Repeat this process until the patches come out clean.

4. Wipe down the exterior of the barrel using a cloth to clean any additional dirt or grime.

Step 4: Clean the Upper Receiver and Bolt Assembly

1. Use a nylon brush with solvent to scrub the bolt, bolt carrier group, and the inside of the upper receiver. Focus on the gas key and bolt face where carbon buildup is common.

2. Clean the charging handle by wiping it with solvent and using a brush to remove dirt.

3. Use cotton swabs to clean small areas like the bolt lugs, extractor, and inside the firing pin channel.

4. Wipe down the entire upper receiver with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining solvent.

Step 5: Clean the Lower Receiver

1. Use a nylon brush to scrub the trigger assembly, magazine well, and buffer tube area of the lower receiver.

2. Pay special attention to the fire control group, ensuring any debris and carbon buildup are removed.

3. Use a cotton swab or brush to reach any tight spots, such as inside the magazine catch and trigger group.

4. Wipe the entire lower receiver with a clean cloth to ensure it’s free of solvent and dirt.

Step 6: Clean the Recoil Spring Assembly

1. Wipe down the recoil spring and guide rod using a solvent-soaked patch.

2. Remove any dirt, debris, or carbon buildup from the assembly before wiping it dry with a clean cloth.

Step 7: Lubricate the MPX Copperhead

Proper lubrication is key to maintaining the performance and longevity of your firearm:

1. Apply a light coat of oil to the barrel (inside and outside) to prevent rust and ensure smooth cycling.

2. Lubricate the bolt carrier group, including the bolt face and locking lugs.

3. Apply oil to the rails of the upper receiver where the bolt slides back and forth.

4. Lightly oil the charging handle and the recoil spring assembly to keep them functioning smoothly.

Step 8: Reassemble the MPX Copperhead

After cleaning and lubricating all components, follow these steps to reassemble your firearm:

1. Insert the recoil spring assembly back into the upper receiver.

2. Reinsert the bolt and charging handle into the upper receiver.

3. Align the upper and lower receivers and push in the front and rear takedown pins to secure them together.

Step 9: Perform a Function Check

Once your MPX Copperhead is fully reassembled, perform a function check to ensure it’s operating correctly:

1. Rack the charging handle back and forth to confirm smooth operation.

2. Dry fire the gun to check the trigger reset and overall function.

Note: Ensure the firearm is unloaded before performing any dry firing.

Step 10: Final Wipe Down

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire exterior of the MPX Copperhead, removing any excess oil, fingerprints, or moisture. This helps protect the finish and prevents corrosion.

Conclusion

Cleaning your Sig Sauer MPX Copperhead after each use will help ensure it continues to perform reliably for years to come. By following the steps in this guide, you can maintain your firearm’s functionality and accuracy, ensuring it's always ready when you need it.