I just picked up my first vintage 1873 Winchester, a carbine model shipped in 1881. I don’t really plan on shooting it…okay maybe just once once. I’m new to vintage firearms, so while storing it in a silicone sock should I apply any grease/oil to the gun to prevent rust? Same question for the action, anything that should be greased or oiled while it’s stored or do you guys store your vintage guns dry?
I would clean and oil the gun and store it in a dry environment. I don’t like socks that don’t breath because they can trap moisture inside. I live in a dry environment but my safe still has a golden rod for humidity control. Check and oil your guns periodically based upon the environment. Never store them dry.
Oil your gun sparingly with any oil from Rem Oil to 10W30 on the metal only, not wood. An oil patch down the bore. Store your gun barrel end down, this helps to keep the oil from wicking into the butt stock. I put mine in a sock to prevent knocks and dings. 50% humidity is ideal, if in a gun safe get a Golden Rod heater it helps move the air in the safe and prevent condensation. Check on them every month.
In the last few years I have changed to Johnson paste wax on metal and wood on the nicer pieces. It lasts longer and prevents salty finger prints when handling. I can get out a gun, handle it, and just wipe it with a dry mico-fiber rag before putting it back. On a no finish gun oil is better it keeps the rust or patina from becoming active. T/R
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