Hey there, fellow gel blaster enthusiasts!
As someone who’s been using gel blasters for years, I know how important it is to keep your gun clean and well-maintained. Not only does this prolong its life, but proper maintenance also ensures that it performs at its best every time. I’ve seen too many people neglect the cleaning process, only to end up with a blaster that malfunctions or breaks down entirely.
Cleaning up a gel blaster gun may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a quick and easy process. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing some of my top tips about how to clean it, including what materials you’ll need, how to disassemble and maintain the various parts.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner just getting started, read on for everything you need to know about cleaning your blaster.
1. Start Cleaning Your Gel Blaster Periodically
As an expert with gel blaster guns, I highly recommend thoroughly cleaning and drying your blaster after each use to prevent rust and damage to its internal components. By following these clean up steps, you can ensure that it stays in top condition and is ready for use whenever you need it.
- First, unload the hopper and dry-fire a few times to find any abnormal sound.
- Next, unload the blaster and disconnect the battery.
- Disassemble it as much as possible, taking care to keep track of all parts and screws.
- Using a soft-bristled brush, gently remove any visible dirt or residue from the exterior of the gun.
- Clean the inner barrel using the steps outlined in the next section.
- Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down all parts, taking care not to get any electrical components wet.
- Dry all parts thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel.
- Reassemble the blaster, making sure that all parts are correctly aligned and tightened.
- Store it in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight.
After cleaning, it’s crucial to remove any remaining moisture from the gun. I use a dry cloth to dry mine carefully, paying special attention to areas where water may have accumulated, such as the barrel or interior of the receiver. Also watch this video to get an idea to care for your gel blaster.
2. Clean The Gel Blaster Barrel for Optimal Performance
Cleaning the barrel of your gun is vital to maintenance because it removes any residue or debris accumulated inside. A filthy barrel or dirty hop up can impair your gel blaster’s accuracy and effectiveness; therefore, cleaning it regularly is critical.
But how to clean a gel ball blaster barrel? Here is the step-by-step process.
- First, remove the magazine and any remaining gel balls from the blaster.
- Take a cleaning rod or swab and attach a clean, dry patch to the end. You can also use a cotton swab if you don’t have such a rod.
- Dip the rod or swab into a small amount of warm soapy water. After that, make sure its surface is damp but not dripping wet.
- Insert the cleaning rod into the barrel and gently swab the inside of the barrel, being careful not to damage the inner barrel or hop up.
- Repeat the process with clean, dry swabs until there is no visible dirt, residue, or moisture on them.
That’s it. The barrel of your gel blaster is clean. I follow these exact same steps too. Remember, a dirty barrel often creates more noise than usual. Here is a video that explains this process.
3. Cleaning The Gel Ball Blaster Magazine
Cleaning your magazine is an important part of maintaining your gun and ensuring that it feeds properly. Here is how to clean your gel blaster magazine:
- Remove any remaining gel balls from the magazine and detach it from the blaster.
- You can use a brush with soft bristles to eliminate any apparent dirt or residue from the outside of the magazine.
- Clean the inside of the magazine with a damp cloth or cotton swab, taking care to remove any dirt or debris that may be obstructing the feeding mechanism.
- After cleanup, dry the magazine and attach to the gun again.
It’s important to note that you should avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials to clean the magazine, as this can damage the magazine and reduce its lifespan. By following these simple steps, you can keep your gel blaster gun’s magazine in top condition and ensure that it feeds properly each time you use it.
4. Effective Lubrication Is Vital
Lubrication is an integral part of gel blaster maintenance after cleaning, since it prevents damage and extends the life of the internal components. 100% silicone oil is one of the most effective lubricants that I prefer using in my guns.
First, remove the magazine and add a few drops of silicone oil inside. Afterward, remove the upper part of the gel ball gun and apply the oil to the piston, O-ring, and seals. To lubricate the internal gears and spring, I highly recommend using Molykote specialty grease, which is thicker than silicone oil.
Also, never try to use thin mineral oil to lubricate your blaster, as it can degrade the condition and cause damage in the long run. As an alternative to Molykote, you can also use Super Lube synthetic grease.
5. Avoid Alcohol To Clean Your Gel Blaster Gun
I do not recommend using alcohol to clean your gel ball blaster. This is because the plastic components of the gun are particularly susceptible to solvent and alcohol damage. Exposure to these chemicals can make the plastic brittle or even melt, which can cause it to malfunction or fail. Additionally, alcohol can induce corrosion in metal parts, especially if left in contact for an extended period.
If you need to lubricate the working parts of your gel blaster gun, use a tiny amount of silicone oil on a clean cloth, as explained in the previous tip. It’s crucial to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and take appropriate safety precautions to avoid damaging the gel gun.
Remember, regular care is essential for your gun. I have seen teammates neglect their blaster until they encounter a problem, which can be too late and result in costly replacement. By following proper maintenance and clean up schedule, you can ensure that your toy operates optimally and lasts for a long time.
6. Assess Any Damage To The Blaster
I always start by disassembling and analyzing each component of my gel blaster individually. I carefully examine both the internal and external parts for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, dents, scratches, or other apparent damage.
To ensure the firing mechanism is working correctly, I test it thoroughly. This helps me identify any problems with the trigger or other critical components. I also inspect the seals of the gun to make sure they are not damaged or worn out. Leaks from damaged seals can significantly reduce the performance of your gel blaster, so it’s crucial to identify any issues early on and resolve them- THAT’S IT!
Related: Working Mechanism Of Gel Blasters
7. Gel Blaster Battery Maintenance : Dos And Don’ts
I always make sure to charge my batteries fully before using them, and never leave them unattended. I only use the charger intended specifically for my gel blaster battery, as using the wrong charger could damage the battery and shorten its lifespan.
In the earlier days, I have personally experienced losses due to overcharging, which can damage the battery and reduce its life span. Therefore, I always follow the charger’s instructions and avoid letting my batteries charge for longer than necessary.
Here I have compiled all the dos and don’ts to clean and maintain the battery.
DOs:
- Always use a high-quality, compatible battery for your gel blaster gun. Using the wrong type of battery can cause damage to your gun or even be dangerous.
- Charge your battery fully before use, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging times and methods.
- Store your battery in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Regularly check your battery for signs of damage, such as swelling, leakage, or discoloration. If you notice any of these issues, replace your battery immediately.
- Use a smart charger that automatically stops charging when the battery is full to avoid overcharging and damaging your battery.
DON’Ts:
- Don’t overcharge your battery. It can cause your battery to become unstable, potentially leading to damage to your gel blaster or even a fire.
- Never store your battery in extreme temperatures or humid environments. This can cause damage to the battery and shorten its lifespan.
- Do not mix and match different types of batteries or chargers. This can lead to damage or even be dangerous.
- Don’t leave your battery in your blaster when it’s not in use for long periods of time. This can cause the battery to drain and shorten its lifespan.
Besides, when storing my batteries, I ensure that they are kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Extreme temperatures can be harmful and may reduce its lifespan.
Also Read: How To Use A Gel Blaster Correctly?
8. Upgrade With Proper Understanding
As an expert in gel blaster maintenance, I highly recommend to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local laws when upgrading your gun. It’s essential to know precisely what you want to achieve with the upgrade and which parts are necessary for the modification. By following these steps, you can ensure that the upgrade is done appropriately and safely.
As someone who has seen the consequences of improper upgrades, I strongly advise against taking shortcuts or using cheap and low-quality parts. These can cause significant damage to your gel ball gun and even put you and others in danger.
It’s also crucial to consider choosing high-quality accessories and attachments from a reputable manufacturer like Gel Blaster and UnlocX. By investing in quality parts and following proper upgrade procedures, you can improve your blaster’s performance while keeping it safe and reliable.
9. Avoid the Risks of Improper Storage
As an expert, I advise keeping your gel blaster gun in a cool and dry place to prevent damage from moisture and other environmental factors. Moisture can cause corrosion on its interior components, which can ultimately damage or render it useless.
After cleanup, I recommend storing the unloaded gun in a cool, dry location to protect it from heat or moisture sources like radiators, windows, or humid areas. Personally, I prefer using a gun sock, which is a storage case designed to protect your blaster from dust and scratches. These socks are widely available at most sporting goods stores and online retailers.
Remember that proper storage is crucial to the longevity and performance of your gel ball blaster. Neglecting to store it correctly can lead to costly repairs or even the need for a complete replacement. By taking the necessary precautions and investing in protective gear like gun socks, you can keep your blaster in top condition for years to come. So, be prepared.
10. Always Keep Your Gel Blaster Away from Water
Although gel blasters use wet gel balls, you should keep the toy gun free from water to preserve its longevity and effective operation. Water can damage its internal electrical components and cause it to malfunction.
That’s why it’s essential to avoid getting your gel blaster wet, whether it’s from rain, puddles, or any other source of moisture. Gellets eventually dissolve and evaporate if left in open air. But a prolonged exposure to water can cause damage to your gel gun.
If by any chance, my gun becomes wet, I dry it up as soon as possible with a soft, clean cloth. I never use heat sources such as hair dryers and ovens since they can cause internal component damage.
I hope that by following the cleaning methods indicated in this article, you will be able to keep your toy gun in good working order and ensure its best performance. Remember to clean up your gel blaster gun after each use, inspect it for signs of wear and tear on a regular basis, and store it appropriately when not in use.
As a result, you can use your gun for many years. It’s important always to follow the user’s guide or instructions and take safety precautions to prevent injury or damage to the blaster.
Thank you for taking the time to read this, and happy blasting!
