Usually when I go to the range I take several rifles with me so I really don't put more than a couple hundred rounds through one gun or so ( most of the time ) then I change guns and shoot it so I might shoot 1,000 rounds just not in the same gun. So I really don't get a bolt that is that dirty. I have a few times but not often.
Nickle boron bolt carrier groups are brilliant additions to a AR that are being shot a lot. Most of it can be cleaned with a solvent moist cloth or just a paper towel in most cases. When it comes to the bolt it is just going to require a little more elbow grease. I like the Daniel Defense 6.8 Phosphate bolts and BCG's.They are harder to clean but I think they are worth it. I can say that sometimes it seems that no matter how many solvent soaked patches you use you still get a little carbon on it but eventually it comes clean.
They make a tool especially for cleaning that area of the bolt. It may help shorten the process for you. That tool is cheap and very effective for the heavier shot rifles. Those little brass brushes are very effective when dipped in solvent. I buy them by the hand full at harbor freight so I can just chuck it when it goes flat or is too soiled. The brass brushes are very effective at removing discoloration on stainless guns when dipped in solvent as well.Like on the inside of a 1911 on the frame and slide. Just don't use them on the outside where the finish is polished or brushed from the factory. They make a tool especially for cleaning that area of the bolt. It may help shorten the process for you. You know knock of some of the heavier spots.
I think this answers
@BangBang question better. I was bored so I wanted to clarify this. However this does not and should not reflect any other shooters process. Each has their own and it's what ever works best for them.
