I cleaned the threads on the plug with a wire brush and the threads in the barrel with a regular round synthetic bristlebrush (T/C brand) for that purpose. I clean them with Butch's Bore Shine, then spray them with compressed air, then spray WD-40 and brush again, then more air, then a dry patch. I'm kind of a fanatic when it comes to cleaning guns, but I never have any rust on my guns.
I was using Knight breech plug lube. Placing an order for more supplies soon and have a tube of T/C lube on the list.
The sights show up well, but they are the cheap plastic bases. If I scope it for hunting it won't matter. I can picture them snapping off if I ever drop it, though. [:@]