Anyone have proven/time-tested tips/tricks for maintaining firearms during extended use in wet climates/environments?

LCDR Joshua Gillespie — Tue, 26 May 2020 14:13:38 -0400

Response by LCDR Joshua Gillespie made May 26 at 2020 2:20 PM

LCDR Joshua Gillespie — Tue, 26 May 2020 14:20:06 -0400

Ok-so maybe an obvious answer (or three) here... but I'm looking for the opinions/advice of those who've tried it with their own stuff. I've always heard (and followed suit) with the idea that since people often fight, hunt, etc. in the rain or snow... it all comes down to good lubrication, cleaning after use, and making sure the weapon's not full of water when you fire. Since most of us no longer have armorers to take care of things... I'm more interested in specifics relating to weapons that have been recently TOTALLY submerged (overturned kayak/swimming to hunting area, etc.). Does everyone do a full disassembly (bare frame upper/lower) after each submersion? Anyone see serious rusting of springs in PMAGs, fire control group, etc.? Are there any parts one MUST change out, no matter how soon/much they clean after taking a bath? Muzzle cap/no cap? Coatings? All input welcome.

Response by LT Brad McInnis made May 26 at 2020 4:35 PM

LT Brad McInnis — Tue, 26 May 2020 16:35:26 -0400

When I did boardings at sea, I mandated the team clean their weapons after every boarding. Full breakdown including mags. This was more for the high humidity and salt spray, but also because I hated Beretta's. Plus, the more you did it, the less time it took. Since we cleaned them religiously, never saw any parts failures.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made May 26 at 2020 6:13 PM

CAPT Kevin B. — Tue, 26 May 2020 18:13:09 -0400

I've used my Weatherby Fiberguard for many years. When it's rainy or even very dusty, I put an electrical tape seal on the muzzle. No pine needles or water in the tube when I shoot. Some use tiny balloons but I always have the tape around.

Response by CPL Douglas Chrysler made May 26 at 2020 7:21 PM

CPL Douglas Chrysler — Tue, 26 May 2020 19:21:52 -0400

You mean in civilian life. I keep the muzzle in a safe direction down, and the action under my jacket/poncho. Then my regular cleaning when home.

Response by LTC Lee Bouchard made May 26 at 2020 10:03 PM

LTC Lee Bouchard — Tue, 26 May 2020 22:03:36 -0400

I have covered the muzzles with small balloon's taped in place. To ensure all moving parts function as
designed try this. Not many in special ops. know this so you may be the first.
Ever heard of a product called "RIG"? It is a grease and lube. It is impervious to salt water and other corrosive liquids. It does not rub off easily. Coat all moving parts with RIG. Never for inside a barrel.
Not recommended for dusty climates or sub zero weather. In these climates use only a light coat on
moving parts. Great in wet and muggy climates. Sheds water like nothing else.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2020 8:21 AM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 27 May 2020 08:21:12 -0400

Diesel fuel or LSA and lots of cleaning. Naval Jelly when back in garrison.

Response by CDR Michael Ranz made Jun 17 at 2020 1:49 PM

CDR Michael Ranz — Wed, 17 Jun 2020 13:49:03 -0400

A rubber banded Trojan works and you can shoot through it. But take care, once it’s on your muzzle you should not reuse on liberty