Rifle Barrel (Quick Inspection)

      Here's a neat trick that will surprise you.   Don't laugh . . . . until you try it.   When I first heard about this idea of using a Q-Tip, it sounded like no big deal.   However, after I tried it, I was surprised to see how well it worked.  

      Just insert a Q-Tip into your barrel (like the picture on the right), and it will reflect enough light so that you can get a real good look at the last half inch of rifling and the crown of your barrel.   In most cases you'll find that this works much better than a flashlight.

      Since then, I've used this method about a jillion times.   Q-Tips are handy to keep in your cleaning supplies anyway.   This is a good way to judge approximately how well you are cleaning your barrel when you're at the range.   It's also the best way to examine your barrel when you're in the field.