How to Make Your Own Gun Cleaning Vise

Want a gun cleaning job done proper? Get yourself a vise! Making a DIY gun cleaning vise is easy. Just find some items around the house! This guide will give all the steps to make sure your guns are kept in tip-top shape.

Steps:

1. Gather the necessary items: a wooden plank, two small clamps, a T-joint, a carriage bolt with nut and washer, and some rubber padding.
2. Drill a hole in the center of the wooden plank.
3. Insert the carriage bolt through the bottom of the T-joint and through the hole in the wooden plank.
4. Screw the nut onto the end of the carriage bolt, tightening it until the T-joint is held securely onto the plank.
5. Attach a clamp to each side of the T-joint, positioning them to hold a gun securely.
6. Add rubber padding to the clamps to avoid damaging the gun.
7. You’re done! Place your gun in the vise and get cleaning.

Introduction

Clean guns are a hunter’s best companion. To keep the gun in top shape, regular cleaning is key. Making your own Gun Cleaning Vise saves money and helps with maintenance. Here’s how:

• Gather instruments to securely hold the gun for the base.
• Create T-shaped handles with durable wood like maple or oak.
• Glue base and handles to screws on either side. Screws slide through lead pipe flanges creating an adjustable angle clamp.
• Cover metal parts with soft fabrics, rubber, or vinyl plus casting resin. This protects the gun from sudden movement during cleaning.

Customize your vise for better visuals and increased functionality. This helps you reach difficult spots with ease.

DIY versions of gun rests were made during economic downturns, such as WWII. This led to the modern-day cleaning vices. So, get ready to make your clean gun with some simple materials!

What You’ll Need

Time to craft a gun cleaning vise! You’ll need:

• A sturdy base,
• A T-bar clamp,
• An adjustable clamp,
• A non-slip mat or foam, and
• Some optional tools like a drill and screws.

Remember to take safety precautions when handling firearms – add extra padding or support and find a comfortable position for yourself and the gun.

If DIY isn’t your thing – invest in a commercially available one. Safety is key when it comes to firearms – always prioritize it.

Step 1: Cut the Base

Cutting the base is the first step to making your own gun cleaning vise. Get a sturdy wood piece that is 18 inches long and 7-8 inches wide. Choose something that won’t crack under pressure.

1. Measure and mark the midpoint of the board.

2. Use a saw to cut it in two equal halves.

3. Determine which end will be the base.

4. Mark 12 inches from the end.

5. Saw an angled cut from this point to the other end.

You should have a stable, triangular-shaped base that can hold different firearms. Now, you can move onto cutting and assembling other components for your DIY gun cleaning vise.

Be precise and take your time. Safety is important when working with firearms. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating something functional and practical – start building yours today!

Step 2: Cut the Jaws

Cutting jaws for a gun cleaning vise is essential! They hold your gun in place while you clean it. Measure the length and width of the vise block, and mark the measurements onto a piece of wood. Use a saw to cut out the jaw shapes from the wood. Sand any rough edges or surfaces with sandpaper. Round off the sharp corners of the jaws with a router or sandpaper, to avoid scratching the gun. Drill two holes into each jaw, evenly spaced apart and big enough for bolts. Attach the jaws to the vise block with bolts. Remember your gun’s unique features when cutting jaws! Consider using materials other than wood for added durability. Don’t forget this step! With accurate cuts and attention to detail, you can create a top-quality vise. Get ready to clamp down and click on clean guns!

Step 3: Assemble the Jaws

1. Gather the materials first. You’ll need two blocks of wood, 3 inches long and 1 inch thick. These will be the jaws of the vise.
2. Drill a hole in one of the blocks, near one end. This hole should fit the screw that’ll make the jaws grip your gun.
3. Align the two blocks. Insert the screw through both blocks, until it sticks out from the other side.
4. Tighten a nut onto the end of the screw, until it’s flush with the wood. When you turn the nut, the two blocks will clamp whatever is between them.
5. Remember, the jaws should hold your gun tight, but not too tight that it damages or scratches it. Adjust it accordingly before starting to clean.

Safety first! Wear safety goggles, and use the right tools when making homemade vices. Secure those jaws tight for a proper clean – don’t let your gun get a hug instead!

Step 4: Attach the Jaws to the Base

Attach the jaws to the base of your gun cleaning vise in five steps!

1. Align one jaw piece with the base, then insert a bolt and secure with a nut.
2. Repeat for all holes in that jaw piece.
3. Attach the second jaw piece in the same way.
4. Tighten each nut gradually, alternating between them.
5. After tightening, make sure the jaws are aligned.

Remember to maintain the vise after each use – don’t let rust ruin it! Start your DIY project today and take control of your firearms. Cut the rod safely and have fun!

Step 5: Cut the Rod

Cutting the rod requires 4 steps:

1. Measure 7 inches from one end of the 12-inch steel bar.
2. Mark this point with a permanent marker.
3. Cut through the steel bar at the marked point with a metal saw.
4. Sand down any rough edges or burrs on the cut end.

Safety is key! Wear gloves and goggles when cutting. Double-check your measurements and be sure you’re cutting the right length.

For easier and more precise cutting, consider using a vice grip to hold your steel bar steady. Secure the rod to the jaws for optimal results.

Step 6: Attach the Rod to the Jaws

Securely attaching the rod to the jaws is a must to make your own gun cleaning vise. Here’s a 4-step guide:

1. Take a metal rod with the same thickness as the screw that came with your vise.
2. Put one end of the rod in one of the jaws’ holes.
3. Tightly screw it in.
4. Repeat this on the opposite jaw.

Now, to the unique details. Make sure the rods are stable before putting a firearm on your vise.

A suggestion for the metal rod: choose something stiff. Softer materials may bend under pressure.

Another suggestion: use lock washers and half-inch bolts instead of cutting metals and nuts and screws. Lock washers provide extra support, so nothing goes wrong.

To wrap up, attaching the rod to the jaws needs care. Follow these steps and suggestions, and you’ll have a sturdy vise ready for use! Finally, give your new vise a handle and your old broom a break.

Step 7: Cut the Handle

Measure twice, cut once! After drilling out the hole for your vise handle, it’s time to cut it to size. Use a saw with a fine-toothed blade (like a hacksaw or coping saw). Clamp it securely and cut slowly – back and forth. Sand down any rough edges left from sawing.

Test the fit – is it comfortable and provides enough leverage? Optionally, taper the ends. Finish off with varnish or stain, if desired.

Remember, an improperly sized handle can cause discomfort and even injuries. Take care when cutting it down. After this step, proceed with assembly as instructed. Don’t rush or skimp on measurements – get the vise handle right and you’ll have a secure and comfy tool for maintaining your firearm. Now, get a grip on your cleaning game!

Step 8: Attach the Handle to the Rod

1. Pick a handle that fits your rod and feels comfy.
2. Drill a hole in the center of the handle – use a drill bit that matches your rod’s size.
3. Put the rod in the handle and secure it with epoxy glue.
4. Let it dry for 24 hours before use.

Secure the handle well for safety. Additionally, add a rubber grip or tape around the handle for extra cushioning and support.

Pro Tip: Clean your vise after each use. Keep it dry and away from moisture and sunlight for longer life. When gun cleaning is due, there’s no need for an expensive vise – just follow these steps without inviting your mother-in-law.

Conclusion

Time to get creative! Construct a vise just for cleaning your firearms. Change size, material, and shape to your specs. This way you get an ideal clean. But remember, safety first! Pick your materials carefully so the vise can handle the pressure and won’t break or move around. Make sure you understand how to assemble and disassemble it too. And if you’d like, add extra features. Simple is usually best! As a final tip: always check parts are secure before use.

FAQ

What materials do I need to make a gun cleaning vise?

You will need a wooden board, a wooden dowel, clamps, screws, a drill, and a saw.

Can I use any type of wood for the board?

Yes, you can use any type of wood as long as it is sturdy enough to hold your gun securely.

What size should the board be?

The board should be large enough to accommodate your gun, with enough room for cleaning supplies and tools.

How do I attach the wooden dowel to the board?

Drill a hole through the center of the board, and insert the wooden dowel. Secure it in place with screws and clamps.

How do I use the gun cleaning vise?

Simply place your gun in the vise, with the barrel resting on the wooden dowel. Secure the gun in place using the clamps, and begin cleaning.

Can I customize my gun cleaning vise?

Absolutely! You can paint or stain the wood to match your other gun accessories, or add additional features such as a tool holder or magnetic strip.

What is the best thing to soak gun parts in?

The best thing to soak gun parts in is a gun cleaning solvent or degreaser specifically designed for firearms. These solvents effectively break down carbon fouling, oil, and other contaminants, making it easier to clean and maintain the gun parts.

Related Topics:

• Gun Cleaning