What I do is run it thru at the range while the barrel is still warm, then at home I have a string loop tied on the end that i slip an oiled patch thru and pull it thru again. I washed it by wrapping around a towel and pinning it. Be carefull when pulling it thru that you dont let it fold over and double up. Had to dig it out with a croche hook once. Ok, so I had yanked pretty hard on it tryin to pull it on thru first. Kind of tore up the end a little bit. I still use the old rod and brush to really clean it good when needed. One of those carbon fiber rods with all brass fittings, no steel. Do also be carefull when pulling the snake thru that the scratchy part doesnt drag over any other part of the rifle.