Remove front cap of the caulk gun, wet the end of the gun with water or release agent (50% water and 50% denatured alcohol). Also spray or pull water into the gun chamber to lubricate the interior. Using the follow plate placed in the pail on top of the caulk or chinking, seat the plate firmly. Attach gun to the plate and lock the push rod locking mechanism. Pull up slowly until the barrel is full.