How to Clean a Sig Sauer P365: Step-by-Step Maintenance Guide

The Sig Sauer P365 is one of the most popular everyday carry (EDC) pistols on the market—compact, reliable, and accurate. But like any firearm, it needs regular cleaning to ensure it stays in top condition. Whether you’re a new owner or a seasoned shooter, keeping your P365 clean isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, function, and longevity.

Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step guide to cleaning your Sig Sauer P365.

What You’ll Need

Cleaning mat or workspace cover
Gun cleaning solvent
Lubricating oil (firearm-specific)
Cleaning patches
Bore brush (9mm)
Nylon brush or old toothbrush
Cleaning rod or bore snake
Microfiber cloth or rags
Q-tips or cotton swabs
Safety glasses and gloves (optional but smart)

Step 1: Safety First

Before you do anything:

Unload the firearm.
- Drop the magazine.
- Lock the slide back.
- Visually and physically inspect the chamber to ensure it’s empty.
Remove ammunition from the workspace.
Never have live ammo nearby when cleaning your firearm.

Step 2: Field Strip the P365

Disassembling is simple:

Lock the slide to the rear using the slide stop.
Rotate the takedown lever downward.
Release the slide and ease it forward off the frame.
Remove the recoil spring assembly.
Lift out the barrel.

You now have your five main parts:

Frame
Slide
Barrel
Recoil spring assembly
Magazine (clean separately)

Step 3: Clean the Barrel

Run a solvent-soaked patch through the barrel using a bore rod or bore snake. Let it sit a few minutes.
Scrub the inside with a bore brush to loosen carbon buildup.
Run clean patches through until they come out clean.
Wipe the outside of the barrel and locking lugs.

Step 4: Clean the Slide

Use a nylon brush and solvent to scrub the slide’s interior—especially the breech face, rails, and extractor area.
Wipe with a dry cloth.
Use Q-tips to reach tight areas.
Avoid excess oil in the firing pin channel—don’t let solvent run into it.

Step 5: Clean the Frame

Brush out any dirt or debris in the trigger area and rails.
Wipe down with a patch or cloth.
Use a Q-tip for corners and hard-to-reach areas.

Step 6: Lubricate

The P365 doesn’t need to be dripping with oil—a little goes a long way. Focus on:

Barrel exterior (light coat)
Slide rails (a drop on each side)
Top of the barrel where it contacts the slide
Recoil spring ends

Use manufacturer-recommended lubricants when possible.

Step 7: Reassemble

Insert the barrel back into the slide.
Replace the recoil spring assembly.
Slide the top half back onto the frame.
Lock the slide back and rotate the takedown lever to the original position.
Release the slide and function-check the firearm.

Step 8: Wipe Down & Final Check

Wipe down the exterior with a clean cloth.
Check for leftover residue.
Ensure no excess oil is dripping from any part.

How Often Should You Clean It?

After every range session.
At least monthly if carried daily, even if not fired.
Immediately if the gun gets wet or dirty.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your Sig P365 is a quick and essential part of responsible firearm ownership. It not only improves reliability but ensures your carry pistol is always ready when it matters most. Keep it clean. Keep it safe. Keep it reliable.