Cleaning my black powder muzzle loader pistol

After the première of shooting session with my Billinghurst pistol - my first ever black powder muzzle loader pistol - it comes the task of cleaning (or shall we say literally wash it up).

First the pistol is taken a part by removing a single punch pin from left to right that holds the barrel to the trigger and grip (and "opening" the under hammer so that it is no longer in contact with the nipple and thereby releasing all contact with the barrel).

Next steps, around the hot water sink, are simple - remove the nipple with the appropriate key (provided by the pistols manuf.)...

... close up detail on the residue accumulation around the nipple

... detail on the just removed nipple (removal tool on top)
The white residue comes from
protective teflon tape applied to the screw sectiion

... and start washing the barrel (already without the nipple) under (very) hot water and with a tiny bit of window / dish detergent. A used tooth brush and a smoking pipe cleaner tool will come in handy to remove residues. Keep water flowing (be generous, and keep it as hot as possible for you to stand) until it comes clean and no more black stuff is present.

Using a .22 brush and cotton swabs it's a great help to reach the inner section of the "powder funnel" - and then proceed with dry cotton patches to remove all excess water from the barrel. Last but not least, use a hair dryer on maximum heat and make sure you get the barrel all dry. Same clean and dry procedure should apply to the nipple (be careful - do not lose it on the sink - use a protective drain tight grid). A tiny bit of teflon tape should be applied to the nipple screw - to avoid the heat and residues from ignition to damage / obstruct extraction.

Final touches should involve a lightly oiled (I prefer Balistol) patch running to trough the barrel... and, after reassembling the all kit for safe storage, to oil it on the outside for protection.