A gun should be in pristine conditions at all times. If it is your call to be armed for security and protection, then it should be ready to protect you. If you use it for hunting and other hobbies, it should not slack either. It should be prepared to fire. Like any other mechanical device, a gun needs regular maintenance. First, a gun’s accuracy and performance are dependent on its overall state. If it is in bad condition, it will end up disappointing you.
Here is a quick guide on how to keep your gun firing through all cylinders, literally.
Clean It Regularly
If you are not firing the gun often, you will need a maintenance schedule. You can say you will check it once every six months. If the firearm has not been used, it is probably still in good condition, especially if its storage is good. However, the greasing will wear off even when you are not using the gun. Some necessary upkeep will do. If you use the gun heavily, some substantial shooting incidents, it will be perfect if you cleaned the rifle after every heavy shooting. You may also need a gun for such a heavy workload. You will remove the dust and other metal residue collecting inside the barrel. This approach works well for people who use the gun heavily. If you are doing target shooting, this will be your ideal cleaning approach. If you don’t, you will notice that the accuracy of the rifle will get worse with time.
Storage is as Good as Regular Care
If you are storing your gun in a good place, your gun will not be at risk of damage. Poor conditions such as high levels of humidity can cause internal compartments of the firearm to rust. Ensure that your gun storage is good. According to this review from ConsumerFiles.com, storing a gun in a drawer safe ensures that the gun is safe, and that it is also in an area that you have easy access to. You want a safe that accommodates all the components of the gun. Some ammunition will be prone to weather elements. Keep them out of the gun. Ensure that the firearm is stored in a cool and dry environment where you can lock it at all times.
Ensure That You Have the Recommended Maintenance Tools
You will not clean a gun with water, or will you? It would be best if you had a cleaning solvent, gun oil, a bore brush and rod consistent with your gun size, cleaning brushes, swabs, and patches, and a flashlight. These are just essential cleaning tools. The gun oil should be used to lubricate the barrel. You may also need a cloth to wipe the gun after cleaning it.
Ensure That You are Doing it Safely
Check the manufacturer’s manual for guidelines on how to clean the gun. Do not be tempted to clean the gun when it is loaded, even if it is basic polishing. Always take the necessary precaution. Unload the firearm safely by following basic procedures. Point the gun away from you, preferably to the ground or anywhere that the firearm cannot accidentally injure a person or destroy property. Always do this in an area that has enough light. You can do it near a window or even outdoors. Wherever you decide to do it, make sure the place is safe and secure. Keep children, other family members, and pets away from this area. Safety is paramount.
Disassembling the Gun as Advised
The temptation to disassemble the weapon beyond the recommended levels can end up with disastrous outcomes. You don’t want to destroy your gun. If you disassemble it too much, you may not be able to return it to the required settings and calibrations. You will not only ruin the precision of the gun, but you can also put yourself in danger if the gun gets a catastrophic failure. You want to disassemble only those parts that will snugly fit back once you are done cleaning. Leave the other ones to the manufacturers. If you disassemble beyond the recommended level, you might void your warranty. A void warranty will cost you in gun repair and any maintenance.
A well-maintained gun will serve you better and for longer. Proper maintenance includes ensuring that you have the recommended tools and equipment. You will not clean a gun well if you don’t have the resources required. Also, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations about disassembling and cleaning. Regular cleaning and proper storage go hand in hand. If any of them is not good, expect the gun to give you trouble every time you are out. Worse still, your gun might fail you when you need it most. Do not take that risk. Do not forget that all your maintenance efforts must be done in a safe and secure place. Ensure that you have minimized all dangers.