Necessary? Well, if you plan to insert a cleaning rod into the muzzle and perform any sort of back-and-forth scrubbing action, it's a really good idea.Got it. I cant find any in town. Is it necessary?
I mean if you're planning to do it just once and are supremely careful not to let the rod drag across the lands at the muzzle, maybe not so bad. Just bear in mind it's not the rod itself that is the concern, rather it is any microscopic grit that may have embedded itself into the rod. In that respect, coated rods and carbon fiber rods are more susceptible than a hard steel rod.
If in doubt, remove the barrel and clean from the breech end.
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