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10/29/2011 8:02:40 AM EDT
So unfortunately I have to strore my rifle, shotgun, and pistol for quite some time. I want to keep them in good condition. I'm going to clean it before I store it, but is there anything special I can do to help deter rust? It will be stored with  desecant packs, FWIW.
10/29/2011 1:37:54 PM EDT
[#1]
Depends on how you will be storing them. In a safe? Closet? Foot locker? Gun Sock? Humid environment? Advise, over.
10/29/2011 3:18:27 PM EDT
[#2]
Cosmoline This stuff works forever, almost. But is a bear to remove once applied. There are homemade receipes to make your own. I had the recipe and directions saved around here somewhere, will look when I get back. A simpler way would be to soak the weapons in Ballistol and vacuum bag them in multiple bags, again these 2 methods would be for long or longer storage than what you probably need. I have stored weapons in safes (with a Goldenrod) just wiped down with Ballistol for several years with no problems and cleaning is no problem.
You would need to assess your situation to really fit your needs. There are mortar tubes, PVC tubes, and even Pelican Storm boxes that a properly prepared weapon could be stored in a long time, how long are you talkin'?
10/29/2011 3:45:41 PM EDT
[#3]
I would heavily lube the bore and other important parts and keep it in a safe preferably.

If you dont have a safe, one of those big plastic containers with a lid (From Walmart or Target ect...)and the desiccant packs

Also the silicon or other treated gun socks are good, even if its in a safe or plastic container, I think the treated socks are a good idea

Brownells has "Gun Paper" thats really good for long term storage, they recommend using it with their plastic storage bags
10/29/2011 8:00:28 PM EDT
[#4]
remove wood, and seal with...maybe bees wax, so it could be removed, and pack everything else in GREASE, pump from grease gun down bore and glob everything else up good.

ps no graphite

For what its worth, I had a handgun stored for maybe 10 years with zero prep. Just the normal cleaning....No I was not in prison
10/29/2011 8:28:40 PM EDT
[#5]
Aviod high humidity and temp. changes
10/29/2011 9:30:06 PM EDT
[#6]
I stored my weapons on my boat and it was sunk during Katrina, so if possible store them in a Pelican Case if you have a boat.
10/30/2011 3:21:00 AM EDT
[#7]
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Copper-Tect-Shotgun-Preservation-Sleeve-52-/260672169189?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cb145a4e5

This is the shotgun version- that just means it is 52" long.  They were discontinued a while ago, so the shotgun is about the only one you can still find.  It acts as a sacrificial substance, so your firearm doesn't rust.  You can even cut one up to store multiple handguns in ziploc bags.
10/30/2011 3:26:35 AM EDT
[#8]
I agree with cosmoline! I have unwrapped 60 year old rifles packed with cosmo and wrapped in paper. They always came out like nos!
10/30/2011 3:27:51 AM EDT
[#9]
I agree with cosmoline! I have unwrapped 60 year old rifles packed with cosmo and wrapped in paper. They always came out like nos! After extensive cleaning!
10/30/2011 5:48:06 PM EDT
[#10]
Cosmoline.  Brownell's sells it.  

You can mess with VCI bags, fancy-pants protectants, desiccants, O2 absorbers, etc., but cosmoline works.  Slather with cosmoline inside and out, then wrap it tightly in a garbage bag.

When you're ready to use it again, remove the plastic parts, wipe off the major excess with a rag, and spray the rest of the gun with brake cleaner to remove the cosmoline.  Plastic parts can be washed in the sink with hot water and dish soap.
10/31/2011 3:39:34 PM EDT
[#11]
Thanks guys. The guns will be stored in a safe, and maybe my "long term" isn't as long as some. Itt's going to be for a period of about 8-12 months. Does that change anything I need to do? I'm going to look into the cosmoline tonight.
10/31/2011 4:11:19 PM EDT
[#12]
Quoted:
Thanks guys. The guns will be stored in a safe, and maybe my "long term" isn't as long as some. Itt's going to be for a period of about 8-12 months. Does that change anything I need to do? I'm going to look into the cosmoline tonight.


That changes a lot...  I would not consider cosmoline unless this was storage for years. If the safe is indoors (climate controlled) I would not worry a lot, would just wipe the weapons down with any good oil (even Mobil1 will not varnish over this period). If this safe is in a garage or area not climate controlled, Ballistol or the Brownells socks will add a layer of protection for peace of mind. 8-12 months is not considered that long for storage. Either way, I hope it all works out for you. Cosmoline really is a loooong term solution, not needed in your case...
10/31/2011 5:08:06 PM EDT
[#13]
A year?  Get some Boeshield and a VCI bag or silicone gun sock.  Your safe should already have a goldenrod and desiccant box already.
10/31/2011 5:27:53 PM EDT
[#14]
1 year aint nothing to worry about !

10/31/2011 5:31:53 PM EDT
[#15]
Quoted:
A year?  Get some Boeshield and a VCI bag or silicone gun sock.  Your safe should already have a goldenrod and desiccant box already.


I use the sock on my M37 wich my grandfather bought in the 30`s
I live in SWFL and just store the shotgun in my closet
so far so good.

Now I wonder when to change the sock?
11/5/2011 5:30:34 AM EDT
[#16]
Maybe this is a subject all of us should take seriously.  I'm sure by now everyone has heard of the ATT.  The NRA has been warning of this for years.  Now with a gun/America hating president, secretary of state, and majority in the senate, this has a possability of becoming real.

That being said, long term storage might become the norm for all of us gun toting psycho's.
I wonder if the ATT passes, how does Obama plan to lock up 80 million + gun owners if we refuse to comply
Maybe that's what all those closed down military bases are for.  Modern day enterment camps

Anyone remember Red Dawn........

Check out the link below.  Rand Paul and the NRA is circulating it.

http://www.nagr.org/UN_RP_BannerSurvey2.aspx?pid=gb17
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