Ok so I got this new Colt AR and it came with a rod in 4 pieces, and a couple brushes.

Do you guys keep this stuff in the buttstock and is there a pouch or something avail. to keep it from being loose and rattling around in the compartment?

Also one of the brushes looks like a normal bore brush but the other one, part of it is normal then some fatter bristles on the end closest to the rod.  What is this a chamber brush?

What other tools do I need for maintenance and cleaning of this rifle?  I've seen posts about barrel wrench among other things.  What would I need that for?  TIA  

I keep mine in the buttstock compartment wrapped in an old piece of T shirt rag. The larger based brush is for the chamber and locking lugs. Get a bore snake for cleaning at home... just got mine and can't believe I was without one for so long. That should be all you need for routine maintenance, except a copy of the manual... download that from [url]http://www.biggerhammer.net/manuals/tm9-1005-319-10.pdf[/url].

BTT anybody else??

RTFM [:)]

good luck!

Tate

For field cleaning, I use the Otis M16 buttstock kit. It has everythiong you need for when you're on a hunting trip or out camping for a few days and you don't want to carry a lot of extra stuff around.

For bench work, I use Dewey and Boretech coated rods with Shooter's Choice solvent for the bore and chamber and Breakfree CLP for everything else. I use Parker-Hale style wrap-around jags because for me, they help keep the patch from getting stuck in the barrel.

Does your 4-piece kit have a T-handle? If so, you can use it for the chamber brush. I avoid sectional rods for the barrel because they can scratch the bore. If you don't have a T-handle, buy a handgun rod and use it for the chamber brush.

Don't overclean because it can cause more damage than good.

I assume you know how to break-in the barrel. If not, find out how to do it here.

I Second The Ottis Cleaner Works Great Wish I Had This In The Corps.

The multipiece rod is a danger to your gun.

Sure, the US Army used to use it, but they have Uncle Sugar to buy a new barrel for them, do you?

Current USGI issue is the Otis buttstock kit for the M16, and a belt mounted kit for the M4 carbine.  Check'em out at [url]www.otisgun.com[/url]

I use the Otis system exclusively for all my guns.  It's a pull through cable system that cleans from the bore to the muzzle, won't harm the bore or crown, and cleans quicker since you can pull a tighter patch than you can push.