Quick Tip: Cleaning a Weaponlight
Introduction
Caleb from Brownells walks through the proper way to clean a weapon light, an often-overlooked part of firearm maintenance. After extended use, carbon buildup can accumulate on the lens and housing, especially when the light is mounted near the muzzle. This buildup reduces brightness and beam clarity, making it harder to identify targets in low light. Regular cleaning keeps your light working at peak performance and helps extend its lifespan.
Understanding Carbon Buildup on Weapon Lights
Weapon lights naturally get dirty over time due to gases and residue expelled from the barrel. Most of this debris collects on the front lens, where it can burn into the surface if left unchecked. This is a common issue for shooters who frequently train at the range or use their firearms in low-light environments. While some buildup is unavoidable, cleaning it properly ensures that your light continues to perform when you need it most.
Common Cleaning Methods That Do Not Work
Many shooters try household cleaning products, gun solvents, or even toothpaste to clean their weapon lights. These methods often fail or only partially remove the residue. Standard gun cleaning solvents are not designed for glass surfaces and can smear or leave streaks. Some people use pencil erasers or microfiber cloths, but these can struggle to break down the hardened carbon. Caleb notes that while these ideas circulate online, most of them fall short of fully restoring the lens.
Using a Magic Eraser to Remove Carbon
The best solution, Caleb explains, is surprisingly simple: a Magic Eraser. These cleaning pads, available at most stores, have a fine abrasive texture that lifts stubborn carbon without scratching the lens. Using a dry Magic Eraser alone can remove a noticeable amount of buildup. It is affordable, widely available, and highly effective.
Adding Gun Oil for Better Cleaning Results
For even better results, Caleb recommends applying a small amount of Rem Oil or another light gun lubricant to the Magic Eraser before scrubbing. The combination of oil and the eraser’s micro-abrasive surface helps dissolve and lift residue more efficiently. Unlike solvents, this method cleans the lens safely without damaging coatings or gaskets.
As you polish the lens with gentle pressure, the carbon wipes away quickly, revealing a clear, bright surface. This method works especially well for stubborn buildup caused by frequent shooting or suppressed firearms.
Wiping Down and Finishing Touches
After cleaning the lens, use a clean, dry section of a gun rag or microfiber cloth to wipe away any remaining oil or residue. This step restores the clear finish and ensures the light operates at full brightness. Caleb notes that while tan or lighter-colored lights show carbon more visibly, this process works just as well on any finish.
Cleaning the Exterior and Dealing with Burned-In Marks
Some discoloration, especially on lighter anodized housings, can be permanent. Carbon and heat can slightly stain or burn into the metal, particularly on tan or FDE lights. While this cannot always be completely removed, cleaning the majority of surface grime helps maintain a professional and well-cared-for appearance. The key is to focus on functionality rather than perfection—what matters most is a clear lens.
Why the Lens Is the Most Important Part to Clean
The lens directly affects how much light your weapon light emits. Even a thin layer of residue can scatter or dim the beam, making it less effective in identifying targets. Cleaning the lens regularly ensures maximum performance, especially for those who rely on their light in defensive or tactical situations.
Preventing Carbon Buildup with Simple Tricks
While it is impossible to prevent all carbon buildup, there are a few simple tricks to reduce it. One of the easiest methods is to cover the lens with a small piece of masking or electrical tape during daytime shooting. This prevents carbon from settling directly on the glass.
Before a night shoot or low-light drill, simply peel off the tape to restore full functionality. This method keeps the lens cleaner longer and reduces the amount of deep cleaning needed after each session.
Using Tape to Protect the Lens During Day Shoots
Caleb explains that this simple tape trick is particularly useful for shooters who only use their weapon light occasionally. During most daylight training sessions, the light is not needed anyway, so covering it keeps it in perfect condition. However, during nighttime or low-light training, you will need to remove the tape, as the light must remain unobstructed to function correctly.
When and How Often to Clean Your Weapon Light
The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you shoot and where your weapon light is mounted. If you shoot regularly, check the light every few range trips and clean it as soon as buildup becomes noticeable. For defensive firearms or duty setups, include light cleaning as part of your regular maintenance routine.
A clean light not only performs better but also ensures that when you need illumination in a critical situation, you can depend on it.
Final Thoughts and Tech Line Information
Cleaning your weapon light is a simple task that pays off in performance and reliability. Using a Magic Eraser and a bit of gun oil is the most effective, inexpensive method for removing carbon buildup safely.
Caleb concludes by inviting viewers to share their own cleaning tips and questions in the comments. For anyone needing further guidance on firearm maintenance or product support, Brownells’ Tech Line is always available to help. Keeping your gear clean and operational is a small step that can make a big difference in the field or at the range.
