Fall Firearm Maintenance 101
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, firearm enthusiasts know it’s time to give their guns a little extra attention. Fall is not just a season of change for nature, but also for your firearms. The drop in temperature and increase in moisture can affect the performance and longevity of your guns, whether you’re a hunter, a sports shooter, or a firearms aficionado. That’s why Big Boss Arms is here with essential tips and tricks for fall firearm maintenance. Ensuring your firearms are well-prepared for cooler weather will keep them reliable, accurate, and ready for whatever the season throws at you.Understanding the Impact of Cooler Weather on Firearms
Before diving into maintenance, it’s crucial to understand how cooler temperatures and environmental changes can impact your firearm’s performance. Metal contracts in cold weather, which can affect the fit and function of your firearm parts. Lubricants may thicken, making the action stiffer and potentially leading to malfunctions if not addressed. Moisture from rain, snow, or condensation can lead to rust, which is the nemesis of any firearm.Cleaning and Inspection: The First Line of Defense
Start your fall firearm maintenance routine with a thorough cleaning. Disassemble your firearm according to the manufacturer’s instructions and clean each part with a solvent designed for firearms. Inspect each part for signs of wear or damage, paying special attention to the bore, chamber, and action. A clean gun is not just a well-functioning gun but also a safer one.Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
- Disassembly
- Begin with ensuring the firearm is unloaded and remove the magazine. Proceed to break down the firearm into its main components as outlined in the user manual. This typically includes separating the barrel, slide, guide rod, and recoil spring. Keep all parts organized on a clean mat, taking care to preserve the integrity of each component for reassembly.
- Cleaning the Bore and Chamber
- Using a caliber-appropriate bore brush, scrub the inside of the barrel to loosen residue. Apply a quality solvent with a bore snake or cleaning patch, and pass it through the bore several times until clean. Follow up with a dry patch to remove any remaining solvent and debris, ensuring a clean, obstruction-free barrel.
- Inspecting and Cleaning the Action
- Examine the action for any signs of wear or damage, focusing on the bolt, slide, or firing mechanism depending on the firearm type. Clean all surfaces with solvent, using a small brush or toothbrush to remove buildup. Lubricate moving parts sparingly with a suitable gun oil to ensure smooth operation.
- Checking and Cleaning Magazines
- Remove any dust, lint, or debris from the magazine inside and out with a dry cloth. Inspect the spring and follower for rust or damage, cleaning them with a non-abrasive solvent. Ensure the magazine’s lips are straight and free of dents to avoid feeding issues, wiping down with a light coat of oil to prevent corrosion.
Lubrication: The Right Products for the Job
Switching to a lubricant suited for colder temperatures can make a significant difference in functionality. Big Boss Arms recommends using lighter, synthetic lubricants that perform better in cooler conditions. Apply lubricant sparingly; a little goes a long way, especially in an environment where grit and grime can stick to excess oil.Recommended Lubricants
- Synthetic Options
- For fall firearm maintenance, synthetic lubricants are a superior choice due to their stability in varying temperatures. They resist thickening in cold weather, ensuring smooth operation of your firearm’s moving parts. Big Boss Arms may offer a selection of high-quality synthetic greases and oils, which provide lasting protection without the risk of gumming up mechanisms.
- Application Techniques
- When applying lubricants, precision is key. Use a needle applicator or a small brush to apply a thin layer to the moving parts and surfaces where metal meets metal. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as excess can attract dirt and lead to malfunctions. It’s also prudent to lubricate the action rails, bolt, and any pivot points after cleaning.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- A common mistake in firearm maintenance is over-lubrication, which can attract and hold dirt, dust, and debris, potentially causing jams. Another is using the wrong type of lubricant, such as using petroleum-based products that thicken in cold weather, impeding the firearm’s function. Lastly, neglecting to wipe off excess lubricant can lead to a build-up of grime over time.
Gun Cleaning and Maintenance Basics
Check out our friends over at Tactical Gear for more firearm maintenance tips.
Protecting Against Moisture and Rust
Moisture control is critical in the fall and winter. Use silicone-treated cloths and moisture-displacing products to protect the metal surfaces of your guns. Consider using a dehumidifier in your safe or storage area to keep humidity levels in check. Big Boss Arms offers Cerakote services, an excellent option for a durable and moisture-resistant finish.Rust Prevention Tips
- Storage Solutions
- Effective storage is pivotal in maintaining the integrity of your firearms. Use a climate-controlled safe or cabinet to shield your guns from extreme temperature fluctuations and moisture. Integrate silica gel packets or a dehumidifier within the storage space to manage humidity. Big Boss Arms recommends using gun socks or vapor corrosion inhibitor (VCI) bags for additional protection, especially for long-term storage.
- Cerakote and Other Protective Finishes
- Cerakote is a ceramic-based finish that can be applied to metals, plastics, polymers, and wood. It is renowned for its durability and corrosion resistance, making it an excellent choice for protecting firearms from the elements. Other finishes like bluing and nickel plating can also provide a degree of protection and are services offered by Big Boss Arms to enhance the longevity and aesthetics of your firearms.
- Regular Checks for Rust and Corrosion
- Routine inspections for rust and corrosion are essential preventive measures. During fall maintenance, examine all metal surfaces, particularly the bore, chamber, and exterior of the barrel. Use a light to look for pitting or discoloration, and if any rust is spotted, address it immediately with a rust remover and apply a protective oil. Big Boss Arms can advise on the best products and methods for tackling rust and keeping your firearms in pristine condition for ultimate fall firearm maintenance success.
Storing Your Firearms Safely and Securely
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning and lubrication. Store your firearms in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Use gun socks or cases that wick away moisture and consider using rust inhibitors or desiccants for long-term storage.Storage Do’s and Don’ts
- Choosing the Right Safe
- Selecting an appropriate safe is a critical decision for firearm owners. The ideal safe should offer a balance of security, fire protection, and climate control. Big Boss Arms might suggest safes with a high gauge of steel, multiple locking bolts, and relocking devices to deter unauthorized access. Furthermore, a safe with an internal climate control system can prevent moisture buildup, which is a common cause of rust.
- Using Desiccants and Rust Inhibitors
- To combat humidity inside the safe, which can be particularly high during the cooler months, utilize desiccants like silica gel packs to absorb moisture. Rust inhibitors, such as vapor corrosion inhibitor (VCI) capsules or emitters, actively release a compound that settles on metal surfaces and blocks rust-causing elements. These preventative measures help ensure that firearms remain dry and corrosion-free.
- Accessibility vs. Safety
- While it is important to store firearms securely to prevent accidents or unauthorized use, owners must also consider accessibility, especially for home defense weapons. Biometric safes or quick-access lock boxes provide a secure yet accessible solution, allowing for rapid retrieval while keeping firearms out of the wrong hands. Big Boss Arms can provide guidance on finding the right balance to meet individual needs and local regulations.
Storing Your Firearms Safely and Securely
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning and lubrication. Store your firearms in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Use gun socks or cases that wick away moisture and consider using rust inhibitors or desiccants for long-term storage.Storage Do’s and Don’ts
- Choosing the Right Safe
- When choosing a safe for your firearms, consider factors such as size, lock type, fire rating, and steel thickness. Big Boss Arms recommends a safe that fits your collection with room to grow. Look for safes with reliable lock mechanisms, like electronic or biometric locks, which offer a balance between robust security and ease of access. Ensure the safe is fire-resistant to protect your investment in extreme conditions.
- Using Desiccants and Rust Inhibitors
- Desiccants, like silica gel packs, are essential for absorbing excess moisture within a gun safe. Big Boss Arms advises placing them strategically inside the safe to safeguard against rust. Rust inhibitors, such as VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) products, form a protective chemical barrier on metal surfaces, which can prevent oxidation and rust. These products are especially useful in damp environments or during long-term storage.
- Accessibility vs. Safety
- The placement and type of your safe should reflect a balance between keeping firearms secure and ensuring they are accessible when needed. Quick-access safes are recommended by Big Boss Arms for home defense weapons. These safes can be opened rapidly, often with a fingerprint or a quick numeric code, allowing for swift and reliable access while preventing access by children or intruders. Always prioritize safety and follow local laws regarding firearm storage for proper fall firearm maintenance.
Preparing for the Range or the Field
Before heading out for a day of shooting or a hunting trip, make sure your fall firearm maintenance are in top condition. Perform a pre-outing check, ensuring your sights are zeroed in and that your gun cycles ammunition correctly.Pre-Outing Checklist
- Safety Check
- Prior to any use, a comprehensive safety check is paramount. Big Boss Arms encourages a meticulous review of the firearm’s mechanical functions. Ensure the safety is operational, the action is smooth, and no parts are damaged or excessively worn. A safety check is a critical routine that should be second nature to every responsible firearm owner, ensuring the gun operates safely and as expected.
- Sighting In
- With the arrival of cooler weather, it’s wise to reconfirm your firearm’s accuracy. Sighting in, or zeroing, should be done to account for any potential shifts that may have occurred since last use. Whether you’re using iron sights, scopes, or red dot sights, Big Boss Arms suggests checking and adjusting them to ensure your point of aim is true to your point of impact, considering that cooler temperatures can affect ballistic performance.
- Ammunition Selection for Cooler Weather
- Ammunition can perform differently in cooler weather, with changes in air density potentially affecting trajectory. Big Boss Arms would likely recommend selecting high-quality ammunition known for consistent performance in varied conditions. Additionally, consider the use of powders in your cartridges that are less temperature sensitive, ensuring reliable ignition and velocity in colder temperatures.
