Keeping a firearm clean is essential for its performance and longevity, but the cleaning process can be messy and time-consuming. This is where a solvent trap comes in —a handy tool that helps collect the cleaning solvents and debris, making the job easier and tidier.
Whether you are a seasoned gun owner or new to firearm maintenance, a solvent trap can simplify your routine and keep your workspace clean.
But what exactly is a solvent trap, and how does it work? Read this piece to learn more.
What is solvent trap?
A solvent trap is a device originally designed for gun cleaning purposes. It is essentially a tube or canister attached to the end of a gun barrel to collect cleaning solvents, debris and other waste materials during the cleaning process. The main purpose of a solvent trap is to prevent harmful chemicals from spilling onto the work surface or the surrounding environment, making the cleaning process more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Typically, a solvent trap consists of a cylindrical tube that can be threaded onto the barrel of a firearm. Inside the tube, some removable cups or filters catch the solvent and other particles as they exit the barrel. This allows for easy disposal of the collected waste. The device is especially popular among gun enthusiasts, who prefer to clean their firearms at home as it simplifies the process and helps to keep their workspace clean.
However, it is important to note that while a solvent trap is legal when used for its intended purpose, it can become illegal if it is modified or used improperly. In some cases, people have attempted to convert solvent traps into suppressors, which are devices used to reduce the noise of a gunshot. Such modifications are illegal in many countries, including the UK, without proper licensing and approval
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Solvent trap kit
A solvent trap kit is a collection of components designed for assembling a solvent trap, a device used in firearm maintenance. The kit typically includes all the necessary parts to construct the solvent trap, allowing users to customise it according to their needs. The primary function of a solvent trap kit is to aid in the cleaning of firearms by capturing and containing the solvents, debris, and other waste materials that are expelled during the cleaning process.
Components of a solvent trap kit
A typical solvent trap kit includes the following parts:
- Tube or housing: This is the main body of the solvent trap. It is usually made of durable materials like aluminium, stainless steel or titanium, ensuring it can withstand the chemicals and wear associated with firearm cleaning.
- End caps: The kit generally includes two end caps—one for the front and one for the rear of the tube. The rear end cap is often threaded to attach to the firearm’s barrel, while the front end cap seals the tube to contain the solvents and debris.
- Threaded adapters: These allow the solvent trap to be attached to the barrel of various firearms. Different adapters may be included to accommodate different barrel thread sizes.
- Cups or filters: Inside the tube, there are often a series of cups or filters. These components are designed to catch and hold the cleaning solvent and debris as it exits the barrel, ensuring it doesn’t spill out and create a mess.
- O-rings: Some kits come with O-rings to provide a better seal between the different components, preventing leaks and ensuring the solvent trap functions efficiently.
It is important to use a solvent trap kit solely for its intended purpose of firearm cleaning. In some instances, solvent traps have been improperly modified into suppressors (silencers), which are heavily regulated or illegal in many places without proper licensing. Any alteration of a solvent trap kit for this purpose can lead to serious legal consequences.
Benefits of using a solvent trap kit
- Efficiency: A solvent trap kit allows for efficient firearm cleaning by containing all the waste material, making the process cleaner and more organised.
- Environmentally friendly: By capturing harmful solvents, the kit helps reduce the environmental impact of firearm cleaning.
- Customisation: Kits often come with various components that allow users to customise the solvent trap to fit different firearms and personal preferences.
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How to use solvent trap
Using a solvent trap is a straightforward process that helps you clean your firearm effectively while keeping your workspace tidy. Follow these steps to use a solvent trap correctly:
1. Gather your materials
Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary items:
- Your firearm that needs cleaning
- The solvent trap or solvent trap kit
- Cleaning solvents suitable for your firearm
- Cleaning rods, brushes, and patches
- Tools to assemble the solvent trap if required
2. Assemble the solvent trap
If you have a solvent trap kit, follow these steps to assemble it:
- Attach the threaded adapter: Start by screwing the threaded adapter onto the end of your firearm’s barrel. This adapter allows the solvent trap to attach securely to the barrel.
- Attach the rear end cap: Once the adapter is in place, screw the rear end cap of the solvent trap onto the adapter. Ensure it is tightly secured to prevent any leaks.
- Insert the cups or filters: Inside the tube, place the cups or filters provided in the kit. These will capture the solvents and debris as they exit the barrel.
- Seal the front end cap: Finally, screw the front end cap onto the other end of the tube, sealing the solvent trap.
3. Attach the Solvent Trap to Your Firearm
Once the solvent trap is fully assembled, carefully attach it to the firearm’s barrel by screwing it onto the adapter. Ensure it is tightly secured to prevent it from coming loose during the cleaning process.
4. Begin cleaning your firearm
With the solvent trap attached, you can now start cleaning your firearm:
- Apply solvent: Soak a cleaning patch with the appropriate solvent and attach it to your cleaning rod. Push the rod through the barrel from the chamber end, allowing the solvent to break down any dirt, carbon or residue inside.
- Run the rod through the barrel: As you push the rod through the barrel, the solvent and loosened debris will be expelled from the barrel and caught by the solvent trap.
- Repeat as necessary: Continue running solvent-soaked patches and brushes through the barrel until they come out clean. The solvent trap will collect all the waste material, preventing spills.
5. Dispose of the collected solvents and debris
After you have finished cleaning your firearm, carefully unscrew the solvent trap from the barrel. Open the front end cap and remove the cups or filters inside the tube. Dispose of the collected solvents and debris according to local regulations as these materials can be harmful to the environment.
6. Clean and store the solvent trap
Once the waste material has been disposed of, clean the solvent trap with warm water and a mild detergent to remove any residue. Dry all the components thoroughly before reassembling the trap or storing it. Proper cleaning and storage will ensure the solvent trap is ready for future use.
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