I just received a Spikes Tactical 16" Barrel for my first AR-15 build. It obviously came shipped in the bag with grease. Any suggestions on the best way to clean it? I know that stuff can be hard to get off. It was like when I bought new mec-gar mags for my p226, they were slathered in grease and took a while to get off. I just don't want to ruin the barrel. Any tips or suggestions?

I'd run some dry patches down the barrel until you get the majority out, then spray it down with some degreaser. Then give it a thin coat of a good lp

Mineral spirits will dissolve the cosmoline/grease.

Awesome...Thanks!

I'd run some dry patches down the barrel until you get the majority out, then spray it down with some degreaser. Then give it a thin coat of a good lp

Exactly what I do. +1 here

Having an automotive background, I like to use brake parts cleaner. It leaves no residue behind and cuts nicely thru the grease or cosmoline. I find that places like advance auto parts run this on sale pretty often. Note that you must oil just after cleaning because the brake parts cleaner removes all the protection from rust.

Hot water works fine to remove grease.

Hot water with Dawn dish soap works great.