Yes, cleaning your firearm improperly can potentially affect the rifling, but if done correctly, regular cleaning will not damage the rifling and will help maintain the firearm’s accuracy. The rifling is crucial for the bullet's spin, which stabilizes it during flight, and any damage to it could degrade performance.

Here are some considerations:

Ways Improper Cleaning Can Affect Rifling:

1. Use of Improper Cleaning Tools:

Steel or overly hard brushes: Using steel brushes or rods that are too hard can scratch or wear down the rifling over time. It’s best to use softer materials like bronze or nylon brushes, which are tough on fouling but gentle on the barrel.

Cleaning Rod Material: If you use a cleaning rod that’s harder than the barrel material or scrape the rod against the rifling while pushing it through, it could cause damage. To avoid this, use coated or brass rods, and always clean from the chamber end if possible, rather than the muzzle.

1. Cleaning Rod Technique:

Improper insertion or angles: If the cleaning rod rubs against the rifling, especially at the muzzle end, it can wear down the rifling or crown over time. Using a guide to keep the rod centered can prevent this.

Jamming the rod: Aggressively pushing a cleaning rod or jag down the barrel can damage the rifling or crown. Always use smooth, steady motions and avoid forcing the rod through tight spots.

1. Over-Cleaning:

Excessive Cleaning: While regular cleaning is necessary, over-cleaning—especially with abrasive materials or strong chemicals—can lead to premature wear of the rifling. Overuse of harsh solvents can also erode the protective finish or metals in the barrel over time.

1. Chemical Damage:

Strong Solvents: Certain solvents designed to remove copper fouling can be corrosive if left in the barrel for too long, potentially pitting the metal or wearing down the rifling. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure you remove all solvents after cleaning.

How to Clean Rifling Safely:

• Use a Bore Guide: This helps center the cleaning rod and prevents it from scraping against the sides of the barrel and rifling.
• Proper Cleaning Materials: Use non-abrasive cleaning brushes (bronze, nylon) and soft, coated rods made of brass or carbon fiber.
• Clean from the Chamber End: Always clean from the chamber end (breech) to prevent damaging the crown at the muzzle.
• Avoid Excessive Scrubbing: Use a proper solvent to loosen fouling first, and then use brushes to gently clean the rifling.
• Patch Pulling: Use patches soaked in solvent to push through the barrel gently. Pull the patch through in one direction and avoid reversing the patch mid-way.

Conclusion:

When done properly, cleaning your gun will not damage the rifling. The key is to use the right tools and techniques, avoiding harsh scrubbing or chemicals that could wear the barrel. Regular maintenance is essential to preserving accuracy and prolonging the life of your firearm.