The Ultimate Guide to How to Borescope Rifle: Step-by-Step Instructions

Borescoping is a vital tool for any serious shooter, offering a window into the heart of your rifle. It allows you to inspect the barrel, chamber, and other critical components for wear, damage, and fouling. This detailed guide will walk you through the process of how to borescope a rifle, covering everything from choosing the right equipment to interpreting the results.

Why Borescope Your Rifle?

Borescoping provides a visual inspection of your rifle’s internal workings, revealing potential problems that could affect accuracy and performance. Here are some key reasons why borescoping is essential:

• Identify Barrel Wear and Damage: Borescoping allows you to detect erosion, scratches, and other damage to the barrel that can impact bullet trajectory and accuracy.
• Assess Fouling and Carbon Build-up: Excessive fouling can hinder bullet travel and affect accuracy. Borescoping helps you determine the severity of fouling and guide your cleaning efforts.
• Inspect the Chamber: The chamber plays a crucial role in feeding and firing rounds. Borescoping allows you to inspect for burrs, dents, and other irregularities that can cause misfires or feeding issues.
• Evaluate Crown Condition: The crown of the barrel is the most critical part for accuracy. Borescoping helps you identify any damage or wear that could affect bullet exit and performance.
• Monitor Bore Condition Over Time: Regular borescoping allows you to track the condition of your rifle’s barrel and make informed decisions about cleaning and maintenance schedules.

Choosing the Right Borescope

Borescopes come in various forms, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the primary types of borescopes commonly used for rifles:

• Rigid Borescopes: These offer a clear and rigid view of the barrel, making them ideal for inspecting scratches, erosion, and other damage. However, they can be less flexible than other types and may not be suitable for tight spaces.
• Flexible Borescopes: These are more versatile and can navigate curves and bends in the barrel, making them ideal for inspecting the chamber and other hard-to-reach areas. However, they may offer a less clear image than rigid borescopes.
• Digital Borescopes: These utilize a built-in camera and display, allowing you to view the inspection on a screen. They offer greater convenience and can be used with various devices, including smartphones and computers.

When choosing a borescope, consider the following factors:

• Diameter: Ensure the borescope’s diameter is compatible with your rifle’s bore size.
• Length: Select a borescope long enough to reach the end of the barrel and chamber.
• Resolution: Higher resolution provides a clearer image and better detail for inspection.
• Light Source: A strong light source is essential for illuminating the barrel and chamber.
• Features: Consider additional features such as image capture, video recording, and adjustable brightness.

Preparing Your Rifle for Borescoping

Before you start borescoping, it’s essential to prepare your rifle properly. This includes:

• Safety First: Always treat firearms with respect and follow safety protocols. Ensure the rifle is unloaded and the action is open.
• Clean the Barrel: A clean barrel provides a clearer view during inspection. Remove any loose debris or fouling with a cleaning rod and patches.
• Lubricate the Borescope: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the borescope’s tip to reduce friction and prevent damage to the barrel.
• Choose a Stable Surface: Place your rifle on a stable surface to prevent accidental movement during inspection.

Borescoping Techniques

Here’s a step-by-step guide to borescoping your rifle:
1. Insert the Borescope: Carefully insert the borescope into the muzzle of the barrel, ensuring it’s aligned with the bore.
2. Advance the Borescope: Slowly advance the borescope through the barrel, observing the interior carefully.
3. Inspect the Barrel: Look for signs of wear, damage, and fouling. Note any irregularities, such as scratches, erosion, or carbon build-up.
4. Inspect the Chamber: Once the borescope reaches the chamber, carefully inspect the area for burrs, dents, and other defects.
5. Examine the Crown: Carefully inspect the crown of the barrel for any damage or wear.
6. Document Your Findings: Take photos or videos of any irregularities you observe. This will help you track the condition of your rifle over time.
7. Remove the Borescope: Carefully remove the borescope from the barrel, ensuring it’s clean and free of any debris.

Interpreting Borescope Results

Understanding what you see through the borescope is crucial for making informed decisions about your rifle’s maintenance. Here’s a breakdown of common observations and their implications:

• Scratches and Erosion: These indicate wear and tear on the barrel, which can affect accuracy. If the scratches are minor, they may not be a significant concern. However, deep scratches or widespread erosion may require professional attention.
• Carbon Build-up: Excessive carbon build-up can hinder bullet travel and affect accuracy. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent this issue.
• Copper Fouling: Copper fouling can accumulate in the barrel, especially when using copper-jacketed bullets. This can impact accuracy and require specialized cleaning solutions.
• Lead Fouling: Lead fouling can occur with lead bullets and can be difficult to remove. Regular cleaning and the use of a lead-removing solvent are recommended.
• Chamber Burrs and Dents: These can cause misfires or feeding issues. If you observe any irregularities, consider having the chamber professionally inspected and repaired.

Maintaining Your Rifle After Borescoping

After borescoping your rifle, it’s essential to maintain its condition. This includes:

• Clean the Barrel: Thoroughly clean the barrel with a cleaning rod and patches to remove any remaining fouling.
• Lubricate the Barrel: Apply a light coat of lubricant to the barrel to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Inspect Other Components: Inspect the action, magazine, and other components for wear and tear.
• Store Your Rifle Properly: Store your rifle in a dry and secure location to prevent damage and corrosion.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Borescoping Techniques

For advanced users, borescoping can be used for more than just visual inspection. Here are some advanced techniques:

• Bore Gauge: Some borescopes incorporate a bore gauge, allowing you to measure the diameter of the barrel and ensure it’s within acceptable tolerances.
• Laser Bore Sighter: A laser bore sighter can be used with a borescope to align the scope with the barrel, improving accuracy.
• Borescope Cameras: Advanced borescope cameras can capture high-resolution images and videos, allowing for detailed analysis and documentation.

The Final Word: Keeping Your Rifle in Top Shape

Borescoping is an essential tool for any serious shooter, providing valuable insights into the condition of your rifle. By understanding the process, interpreting the results, and implementing proper maintenance, you can ensure your rifle remains in top shape for years to come.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: How often should I borescope my rifle?
A: The frequency of borescoping depends on how often you use your rifle and the type of ammunition you use. A good rule of thumb is to borescope your rifle every 500-1000 rounds or after any significant cleaning.
Q: What should I do if I find damage in my barrel?
A: If you find significant damage in your barrel, such as deep scratches or erosion, it’s best to consult with a qualified gunsmith. They can assess the damage and determine if the barrel can be repaired or needs to be replaced.
Q: Can I use a borescope to inspect other parts of my rifle?
A: Yes, you can use a borescope to inspect other parts of your rifle, such as the action, magazine, and bolt face. However, it’s important to use caution and ensure the borescope is compatible with the part you’re inspecting.
Q: What are some signs that my rifle may need to be borescoped?
A: Some signs that your rifle may need to be borescoped include:

• A significant drop in accuracy
• Difficulty cycling rounds
• Unusual noises or vibrations when firing
• Visible signs of wear or damage on the exterior of the barrel

Q: Is borescoping a difficult process?
A: Borescoping is a relatively simple process, but it requires patience and attention to detail. With practice, you can become proficient in borescoping your own rifle.