Quoted:
I forgot to ask, how clean is clean enough? Do you have to scrape the carbon out of every nook and cranny? I take it you just need to clean the bolt and carrier, along with the rails, and the barrel of course. What is considered clean ammo? Is S&B clean, what about Wolf? If these aren't that clean, where can I get military grade ammo?
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Your weapon can NEVER be clean enough. If you keep your rifle out of the dirt, it should go for about 1000 rounds without cleaning before it becomes a problem. Depends on the ammo.
In sandy areas, as I said, keep the dust cover closed and a magazine inserted. That should help keep most of the sand out.
The only part you really have to "scrape" carbon off is on the "tail" end (not sure what you call it) of the bolt. I'd say after about 500 rounds it is absolutely necessary.
The weapon will function ok with a little bit of sand in it, but not much.
The major parts are inside the upper receiver, chamber area (pain in the ass), barrel, bolt and bolt carrier. Those are the important parts. Don't neglect the other parts though!
Wolf ammo is some dirty shit. Keep it away from your AR. Go for Q3131A. S&B seems ok.
For military surplus ammo, try -
[url]www.ammoman.com[/url]
[url]www.cole-distributing.com[/url]
There are other places, I just cant think of them now.
Bottom line - TAKE CARE OF YOUR WEAPON AND IT WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU!!!!