again there are many differant ways to use the snake. i just use a little oil about 3 or 4 inches from the end and my barrels come out clean with a shine. they always pull threw hard the first pass or two threw the barrel. after 6 or 8 times threw they pull easy thats when i stop. once in a while your guns may need a good cleaning but most people over clean they weapons. unless you are shooting hundreds of rounds a week the snake is all you will need.