Rusting Leupold Scope Mounts

[clearwater]

Just got back from the High Buck hunt in WA. Rained on the scramble in. My Leupold scope mounts rusted on the first day of rain!

Is this a common thing? I have several other mounts old and new that have been in more prolonged wet weather, even coastal sea air, that didn't do this.

Any thoughts?

 

[bkordon]

I cannot speak to Leupold mounts specifically. I think as long as pitting is avoided, the surface staining will come off with gun oil.
The rain on the west coast can be relentless. I had rust eat a muzzleloader in spite of oil treatment and swabbing of the barrel. Blued finishes are worse than stainless. I would say wipe them down with gun oil and then do it again in two days. Good luck.

I would also add that I would break down my rifles from the stock, after the season and do a full inspection. Water can sit in the underside of the barrel channel and slowly work on the non-exposed portions of the metal.