Cleaning Kibler Woodsrunner?

[Flintlock Fellow]

Some people obsess about keeping their guns looking brand new,and spend hours overcleaning them. To what end? In 20-25 years all our nice guns will be wall hangers anyway, selling for 20 cents on the dollar of what we paid because all us old enthusiasts will have died off and younger generations will have little to no interest (or powder, caps, and flints) for shooting them. They will be seen as nice novelties of an earlier generation.
I don’t mind if my guns get a few blemishes from use and nor being cleaned to a state of spotlessness. I want them to look a little used.
Also, the longer it takes to clean one, the less likely I ammto get it out to shoot because I don’t feel like spending lot of time cleaning a gun I may only have fired a very few shots through.

I respectfully disagree with your perspective. While it’s true that some firearms might end up as collectibles or wall hangers over time, I don’t believe that their value—whether monetary or personal—will diminish as much as you suggest. There will always be a niche of enthusiasts who appreciate these guns for their craftsmanship, historical value, and shooting experience, and I think future generations will continue to pick up the torch, even if on a smaller scale.

As for cleaning and maintenance, I see it as more than just preserving aesthetics—it’s about respect for the tool and ensuring its longevity. A well-maintained firearm can outlast its owner and continue to perform for decades, if not centuries. That doesn’t mean they have to look pristine or unused, but careful cleaning and upkeep allow them to function and be enjoyed as intended. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve witnessed guys have issues at the range that stem from improper or inadequate cleaning of their guns (most frequently cap locks).

I also disagree that cleaning has to be an obstacle to enjoyment. Personally, I find it part of the hobby. Taking the time to clean a gun after use allows me to connect with it, appreciate its mechanics, and ensure it’s ready for the next outing. Of course, I respect your preference for letting your guns show signs of honest use—but for me, keeping mine in excellent condition is part of the pride of ownership.

 

[Sagebrush]

I've been burning black powder for fifty years. Unless you've got a hooked breach and barrel wedges (and you don't) removing the barrel is not something you want to do for cleaning.

My recent-built Kibler fowler will probably never have the barrel pulled off it.

If you decide to, you must know how to remove the barrel without breaking the stock. Jim has a video on it.

Clean it with soapy water, followed by drying patches and a swipe of Balistol or WD40 followed by a dry patch.