Proper cleaning and maintenance of your Sig Sauer P220 ensure reliability, accuracy, and longevity. Follow this factory-recommended guide to safely clean and lubricate your pistol.

What You’ll Need (hover over “Cleaning Gear” in navigation menu):

✔️ Cleaning mat or soft cloth (to protect your work surface)
✔️ Nylon cleaning brush (Sig Sauer-recommended or aftermarket)
✔️ Cotton patches or lint-free cloth
✔️ Cleaning solvent (high-quality gun cleaner)
✔️ Gun oil/lubricant (light, non-greasy lubricant)
✔️ Bore brush (nylon or bronze) and cleaning rod

Step 1: Ensure the Firearm is Unloaded

1. Remove the magazine and set it aside.

2. Lock the slide open and visually inspect the chamber.

3. Physically check the chamber with your finger to confirm it is empty.

4. Release the slide forward only after confirming it is clear.

Step 2: Field Strip the Sig Sauer P220

1. Lock the slide back using the slide stop.

2. Rotate the takedown lever downward (90 degrees) to the 6 o’clock position.

3. Hold the slide firmly and release the slide stop, then slowly guide the slide off the frame.

4. Remove the recoil spring and guide rod (be cautious as it is under tension).

5. Lift the barrel out of the slide.

(No further disassembly is recommended unless done by a certified armorer.)

Step 3: Cleaning the Barrel

1. Soak a cleaning patch in solvent and push it through the barrel with a cleaning rod.

2. Let the solvent sit for a few minutes to break down carbon buildup.

3. Use a bronze or nylon bore brush to scrub inside the barrel.

4. Pass dry patches through the bore until they come out clean.

5. Run a lightly oiled patch through the bore to protect against corrosion.

Step 4: Cleaning the Slide

1. Use a cloth or cleaning patch to wipe down the inside and outside of the slide.

2. Apply solvent to a nylon brush and scrub the breech face, extractor, and slide rails.

3. Use dry patches to remove excess solvent.

4. Apply a light coat of lubricant to the slide rails and contact points.

Step 5: Cleaning the Frame

1. Use a dry cloth or brush to remove dirt and fouling from the frame rails, trigger assembly, and fire control group.

2. Avoid oversaturating the frame with solvent—excess oil can attract dirt.

3. Wipe down the magazine well to remove debris.

4. Apply a small amount of oil to the frame rails to ensure smooth operation.

Step 6: Lubricating the Sig Sauer P220

Sig Sauer recommends minimal lubrication—over-oiling can cause malfunctions. Apply a small amount of oil to these key areas:

✅ Barrel exterior – Apply a thin layer, focusing on the locking lug and barrel hood.
✅ Slide rails – A tiny drop along each rail ensures smooth movement.
✅ Recoil spring assembly – A light coat on the guide rod to prevent corrosion.
✅ Hammer pivot and trigger bar – A small drop for smooth operation.

(Do NOT lubricate the firing pin channel or extractor excessively!)

Step 7: Reassembly & Function Check

1. Insert the barrel back into the slide.

2. Reinstall the recoil spring assembly, ensuring proper seating.

3. Align the slide with the frame rails and push it back into place.

4. Rotate the takedown lever back to the horizontal (locked) position.

5. Perform a dry fire function test to ensure proper reassembly.

Step 8: Final Wipe Down

Use a clean, dry cloth to remove excess oil and fingerprints.

How Often Should You Clean Your Sig Sauer P220?

🔹 After every shooting session
🔹 If the firearm is exposed to dirt, sweat, or moisture
🔹 At least once a month for storage maintenance

Following this factory-approved cleaning process will keep your Sig Sauer P220 running smoothly for years to come.