Stance XR: Cleaning Tips for Concealed Carry Pistols

A clean and well-maintained pistol is essential for safe and reliable concealed carry. The Stance XR, known for its compact design and everyday carry capabilities, requires proper care to ensure peak performance. Regular cleaning not only prevents malfunctions but also extends the life of your firearm. This guide covers the best cleaning and maintenance practices for the Stance XR.

Why Regular Cleaning Matters

Daily carry exposes your Stance XR to dirt, sweat, and debris, all of which can compromise the reliability of your firearm if left unaddressed. Carrying a concealed pistol daily subjects it to more frequent contact with moisture, body oils, and environmental contaminants compared to a pistol stored at home or used occasionally at the range. Sweat can lead to moisture buildup, while dirt and debris can infiltrate moving parts, increasing wear and tear. Even during periods of non-use, dust and lint tend to accumulate, often sticking to lubricants, which can create a paste-like residue that may hinder performance. Regular cleaning and inspection help prevent these issues, ensuring your pistol remains in optimal condition, ready for safe and effective use whenever needed.

Safety First: Key Principles

Before any cleaning or maintenance:

• Unload the Pistol: Remove the magazine and ensure the chamber is empty.
• Keep the Muzzle Pointed in a Safe Direction: Always be aware of where the muzzle is pointed
• Work in a Safe Environment: Choose a well-lit, distraction-free area.
• Wear Safety Gear: Use protective eyewear
• Follow the Manual: Always refer to the official Stance XR manual.

For more, check out our guide on 10 Things Every Gun Owner Should Know. 

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Firearm cleaning solvent
• Gun oil (lightweight, non-excessive)
• Cleaning patches and rods
• Bore brush (caliber-specific)
• Microfiber cloth
• Nylon cleaning brush
• Cotton swabs

How to Disassemble the Stance XR for Cleaning

Refer to the official manual for detailed instructions on how to disassemble Stance XR, but here’s a step-by-step outline:

Step 1: Unload and Verify Safety. Remove the magazine and double-check that the chamber is empty.

Step 2: Lock the Slide Back. Pull the slide back and engage the slide lock to keep it open.

Step 3: Rotate the Takedown Lever. Rotate the takedown lever clockwise as instructed in the manual.

Step 4: Remove the Slide. Release the slide lock while holding the slide to the rear. Gently guide the slide forward and remove it from the frame.

Step 5: Remove the Recoil Spring and Barrel. Lift out the recoil spring and guide rod, followed by the barrel.

Your Stance XR is now field-stripped and ready for cleaning.

Cleaning the Stance XR

Barrel:

• Apply solvent to a bore brush and run it through the barrel several times.
• Follow with cleaning patches until they come out clean.
• Wipe the exterior with a microfiber cloth.

Slide:

• Use a nylon brush to scrub the slide's interior, focusing on contact points.
• Wipe with a solvent-soaked cloth.

Frame:

• Clean the frame with a cotton swab or brush, especially around the trigger assembly.

Lubrication Tips

• Apply a small amount of oil to the slide rails, barrel exterior, and recoil spring.
• Avoid over-lubricating, as excess oil can attract dirt and debris.

Reassembly of the Stance XR

Step 1: Reinsert the Barrel and Recoil Spring. Place the barrel back into the slide, followed by the recoil spring and guide rod. Make sure the recoil spring is oriented correctly with the cuts to the side. 

Step 2: Reattach the Slide. Align the slide with the rails and carefully slide it back onto the frame.

Step 3: Lock the Slide and Rotate Takedown Lever. Lock the slide back and rotate the takedown lever back to its original position.

Step 4: Function Check. Rack the slide, dry fire (in a safe direction), and ensure smooth operation.

Maintenance Schedule

• After Every Use: Clean thoroughly after range sessions or practice. This helps prevent residue buildup that could impact functionality, especially for a concealed carry pistol that's regularly exposed to body oils and dirt.
• Monthly (Even if Unused): Wipe down and inspect for dust, lint, and rust. Concealed carry pistols face constant exposure to lint and debris from daily wear, which can settle in crevices and compromise the firearm's reliability. Regular checks are crucial for maintaining readiness.
• Every 3-6 Months: Perform a deep clean and lubrication. Concealed carry pistols experience more exposure to the elements and body contact, making them more prone to corrosion and grime compared to pistols stored at home. Periodic deep cleaning ensures the pistol's long-term reliability and performance.

Changing Your Ammunition

It is important to periodically change out the ammunition you carry in your concealed carry pistol. Ammunition can degrade over time due to exposure to moisture, body heat, and varying temperatures, which can affect its performance. Replacing your carry rounds every few months ensures you are always equipped with reliable ammunition. This process also provides a great opportunity to visit the range and use the older rounds for practice, allowing you to stay familiar with your pistol's performance and not waste the ammunition.

Final Safety Check

After reassembly:

• Confirm the chamber is empty.
• If you have a model with a manual safety, confirm that the safety functions properly.
• Perform a dry fire test in a safe direction.
• Store your Stance XR securely in a holster or gun safe.

Regular maintenance of your Stance XR ensures it remains reliable and safe for daily carry. Consistent care helps keep dirt, lint, or moisture from accumulating, ensuring your firearm stays in top working condition. By adhering to these cleaning and care tips, you not only protect your investment but also enhance the longevity and safety of your firearm. A well-maintained pistol offers peace of mind, ensuring optimal performance and readiness in critical situations where personal safety matters most.