I'm about to take my new Tikka 7mm rem mag out for a drive. It's brand new, never been shot (unless the factory did) - I don't see any packing grease or anything, do I need to clean it and such anyway? If so, what all do I clean? I've never had a bolt action before (only my second rifle).

Thanks in advance

Nate

I'd at least run a few patches through the bore. I've heard stories about barrels being damaged due to metal filings left in a new barrel. I think this only applies to aftermarket barrels that have not been test fired but why take a chance. Also, there is a lot of information on the web about barrel break-in. Some folks recommend thoroughly cleaning after each shot for the first 10 or so shot. Do a web search on rifle barrel break in.

At most run one patch but just go shoot it. There is no barrell break in. Shooting it breaks it in

I'd at least run a bore-snake through it. If you're going to use a cleaning rod, make sure you have a bore guide first. I've always heard, and I believe it, that more barrels are damaged by improper cleaning that shooting.

+1 on the bore snake. Thats all I use now.

I use a one piece soft coated rod for rifles. To be on the safe side swab the barrel. Shoot 3 rounds then clean. Shoot five rounds then clean. Clean after every 5 rounds until 50 are shot. Some guys clean after every shot up to 50 rounds. These are ideas for the target, competition, duty rifles and quality assault rifles that see lots of rounds and action. On a magnum hunting rifle I would not. I would just shoot it if it's just for hunting. Those rifles normally don't get massive amounts of ammo run through them. Don't castrate me, just my 2 cents.

thanks yall

Pretty pleased with the Tikka - I'm by no means a great shot, but that thing is accurate!