Before the invention of gun powder and firearm cartridges, the air gun was used for hunting. It got its start as a blow gun, powered by the human lung. As technology advanced, so did the air gun, transforming from a hand-pumped model to the complex, realistic guns we see today. What once was thought of as a toy or a good "beginner" gun, is now a gun used by serious enthusiasts and competitors alike. There is even an air gun competition in the Olympics!
Because air gun competition has become such a big sport, and the guns themselves so intricate, it is just as important to maintain them properly as it is with a gun powered firearm to keep them in good, safe working order.
Although airguns require less maintenance than a firearm, there are a few things that should be done periodically. For instance, after every 300-1000 shots fired, you should oil the spring chamber and the pistons. Also, on a CO2 air gun, you should oil the seal and needle where the powerlet goes to ensure the seal keeps moist and does not crack. On a pump air gun, oil all pivots and moving parts. Be sure to use cylinder oil specially made for this purpose because any other oil will cause problems with the gun's performance.
Aside from oiling the gun, you should also take the time to clean the inside of the barrel to remove any old oil and lead particles from the ammunition. Use a silicone cloth specially made for this purpose and reapply cylinder oil inside the barrel to prevent rusting.
When you should oil and clean your gun varies by manufacturer. You should always read the instructions manual and follow all directions carefully to ensure that your air gun stays in excellent condition.
Air Gun Maintenance
Posted by
Live, Laugh, Blog
Monday, April 23, 2012
2 comments:
Airguns are also dangerous and should not be left around. My brother accidentally shot himself with a neighbor's air rifle when he was 11 y/o and lost his left eye, had 4 head surgeries to try to remove the pellet. He has some paralysis on the left side of his body. He is now 47 and this accident changed his life forever.
You are absolutely right, Merimd. Air guns can be dangerous if they are not treated as any other firearm. They are not toys, nor should they be left around where kids can get to them. I'm sorry to hear what happened to you brother all those years ago. I can't imagine how upsetting it must have been for him then, and probably to an extent to this very day.
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