Hunting season puts a firearm through temperature swings, wet brush and condensation every time it comes in from the cold. Most problems are small: surface rust, a sluggish action, or a bore that picked up moisture. A few minutes of care after each trip prevents most of them. Always follow your firearm manufacturer’s manual, and treat every firearm as loaded until you have personally verified it is clear.
Why cold, wet days are hard on firearms
- Condensation. Bring a cold firearm into a warm house or cab and moisture forms on and inside it, including in places you cannot see.
- Too much lubricant. Heavy oil or grease can thicken in the cold and slow an action down. A light film is usually the goal.
- Hidden moisture. Water wicks under scopes, into stocks and behind recoil pads, and a closed case traps it.
- Fouling plus moisture. Powder residue holds moisture against metal, which speeds up corrosion.
Season checklist
- Unload and verify clear before any cleaning or inspection. Keep ammunition out of the cleaning area.
- Before the season, clean off storage oil, check that the action runs smoothly, and apply a light coat of lubricant only where the manual calls for it.
- In the field, keep the muzzle protected from snow and mud, and do not lean the firearm muzzle-down in snow.
- After a wet day, let the firearm come up to room temperature out of its case, then wipe it dry inside and out.
- Clean fouling from the bore and action after shooting, then apply a light protective film to exposed metal.
- Check the stock and scope mounts for moisture and loose screws after rough weather.
- Store it dry and uncased overnight after a wet hunt so trapped moisture can escape, then store it securely.
Frequently asked questions
Should I bring a cold gun straight into a warm house?
It is usually better to let it warm up gradually, then wipe it down once condensation has formed and dry it fully before storing. Leaving it zipped in a cold, wet case traps moisture.
How much lubricant should I use in cold weather?
A light film where the manufacturer calls for it. Excess lubricant can collect dirt and slow an action in the cold. Wipe off the extra.
Do I need to clean after every hunt if I did not shoot?
If it got wet, at least dry it and wipe a light protective film on the exposed metal. Fouling only needs attention after shooting.
AMSOIL products for this job
- AMSOIL Firearm Cleaner and Protectant. AMSOIL says: “Effectively cleans fouling and powder residue from all firearm surfaces, reducing misfires and increasing reliability”; “Protects guns against corrosion, allowing for safe storage and preserving performance, reliability and value”.
- AMSOIL Synthetic Firearm Lubricant and Protectant. AMSOIL says: “Effectively lubricates and protects firearms, helping extend life and prevent blockage, jams and wear”; “Outstanding protection and performance in both hot and cold climates”.
Product wording above is quoted or summarized from amsoil.com. Read each product’s label and data sheet for directions.
Use AMSOIL’s official lookup guide to see what is listed for your vehicle or equipment, then order online whenever it suits you.