I wonder if it might be possible to go a bit deeper into the subject of cleaning and lubricating a firearm?
As nearly as I can tell, reasonable practice is to field strip the weapon after each use, clean it, then apply a light coating of oil or other lubricant. That seems simple enough.
However, I noticed an item here that suggested:
I now detail clean my pistols aprox every 1k rounds, and do a basic cleaning after each usage, and a relube every 2 weeks even if not used.
LINK - See post #15
I have also noticed some other references that seem to hint at such things as disassembly of magazines, deep cleaning every 500 rounds, and so forth. There seems to be some concern that oils can penetrate, and hence ruin, ammunition in the magazine.
My usage is, at best, modest. Perhaps best placed in the comedy section, actually. But I go to the range once per month and fire 100 rounds of factory loaded ammunition. I carry the firearm in a utility bag, and have good intentions of moving into an IWB holster (probably Crossbreed) at some point.
The firearms are: Glock 17, HK USP tactical (9mm), and Kel Tec P3AT in .380.
After reading other threads, I have Militec - 1 lubricant and also grease on order.
So...if I may...the questions:
1) How often should I field strip and clean the weapons?
2) How often should I deep-clean them? This appears challenging in the case of the H&K especially; however, perhaps I'm making it harder than it is. Is there some literature that gives step-by-step instruction in such matters?
3) Should I break down the magazines, clean, and lube them?
As always, any guidance is appreciated. I've probably failed to ask several important things, so please tell me anything you believe a neophyte ought to be aware of.