Storing rifles

[SJB358]

Just a quick question. I just got done deep cleaning a bunch of rifles, and thought, instead of putting the rifles back into the safe butt stock down, why not set them on the muzzle end. I have a thick foam/neoprene base to the safe, so I don't imagine the crowns will get hurt/touched/dinged at all, and I would think this would allow any excess lube, solvent whatever to drain off the rifle, instead of setting in the bolt/action/chamber/stock. Just wondering, I think it makes sense? What are your thoughts on it. Scotty

 

[owenv]

I do the very same thing. I also open the bolt/lever just in-case of trapping any moister.

 

[SJB358]

Good deal, at least there is two of us. I think it makes sense overall. I try to keep the bolts open, the ones that will stay open. Thanks for the response OWENV. Was hoping I wasn't crazy for thinking that. Scotty

 

[HeathSexton]

I pull all my bolts and lay them in the safe.

 

[DrMike]

Especially with a soft floor lining, I can't imagine that setting rifles in the safe with the muzzle down will hurt. However, I run two dry patches through the bore after cleaning and swab the chamber with a chamber mop. Then, I inspect the exterior for any residue and wipe the metal with an Ultra-Lube Gun Wipe. Before placing my rifles in the safe, I sock each up in a gun sock to avoid nicks and bangs. I get enough souvenirs in the field without trying for them in a crowded safe.

 

[JD338]

I don't see why you couldn't store them muzzle down.

I make sure my guns are clean and lightly oiled inside and out and keep them in a Liberty safe. I also have a Golden Rod in the safe to eliminate moisture.
It seems to work as I have never had a problem.

JD338

 

[SJB358]

That makes alot of sense, and I do the same thing, meaning I run a lightly oiled patch and wipe them down very well. The individual gun sock is a great idea, as my safe is a little crowded also. I run a dehumidifier 24-7 in my gun area, so I don't think I have a moisture problem, and no rust after sitting at all. I was just thinking it couldn't hurt. Plus, it actually helps keep the guns a little more packed in the safe I think. Scotty

 

[DrMike]

Fortunately, as dry as it is here, I've gotten away without a dehumidifier. Now, when we lived in New York, Houston and San Francisco, that was another story.

 

[buckfever]

Thats whats nice about eastern Oregon pretty dry rust has never been a problem.

 

[Divernhunter]

If you alternate gun muzzle up and down you can get more rifles into less space than if all are up or down.

 

[SJB358]

That is exactly what I did. I put shotguns butt down and rifles muzzle down. Now I have a little more room in my safe, and that is never a bad thing! Scotty