What Kind of Gear Do You Need to Keep Your Gun in Good Condition?
Guns require a regular maintenance schedule just like a vehicle does. Cleaning and part replacement should be a part of this regular schedule to keep your gun in top performance condition. Here are some of the things you should keep on hand to protect your gun.
Cleaning Kits
Guns need to be scrubbed free of corrosion and lubricated regularly. Commercial cleaning kits consisting of several brushes and files are available wherever guns are sold. Gun lubricator may be sold as part of the cleaning kit or separately. When lubricating, make sure to follow the instructions concerning how much to use. Under and overlubricated guns both have lots of problems. Cleaning your gun also helps you get to know how it works better because you have to figure out how the different parts work.
Replacement Parts
One of the most commonly replaced gun parts is the grip. They experience normal wear and cracking from use. In addition to the grip itself, owners should carry the proper grip screws in order to secure the new part. Recoil and firing pin springs should also be kept on hand, as they fail with extended use.
Magazines are not infallible. In fact, a magazine is expected to have a much shorter lifespan than the gun in which it is used. Standard law enforcement procedure is to rotate your magazines every 90 days so you can inspect it and make sure it is working properly. Replace worn or broken magazines immediately to safely continue using the gun.
Proper Storage Cases
For a gun to maintain adequate condition, it should always be stored correctly. When you are at home, if the gun is not on you, it should be stored in a locked safe in a secure location. If you are traveling with a gun, make sure you get a sturdy storage case. Dust, moisture, and other environmental conditions can impact the function of your gun. If you are looking for a case to withstand any condition, look for a military grade gun case. They come in all sizes, can withstand any amount of damage, and can be secured with padlocks.
Dummy Rounds and Snap Caps
Dummy rounds and snap caps, or ammunition that does not discharge but still allows the gun to fire, are used to evaluate the health of a gun. Firing these gives the owner feedback on the health of the extractor and feed. Even when firing dummy rounds or snap caps, make sure you treat it like it is live ammo. Gun safety isn’t a joke, and you shouldn’t ever mess around with it.
There is no point in owning a gun if you don’t take proper care of it. Make sure you follow a set maintenance schedule to prevent any surprises when you go to use your gun. You should also make sure you always follow proper safety. Guns aren’t toys, even if you know what you are doing.
