WTK: LONG TERM PISTOL STORAGE

SPEEDGUNNER · #1 09-12-2010, 10:21 PM

I would like to buy some cases to store some of my handguns that don't have boxes. Is there any particular kind I should buy? Looks like Midway has some nice stackable hard cases by Flambeau that are not too expensive. The soft "rugs" would take up less space, but I don't know if they are proper for storage. Are there any long-term storage issues I need to worry about?

venomballistics · #2 09-12-2010, 10:41 PM

climate means more than the containment ... it will remain what you put in the box for as long as the environment does not promote rust.
also a quick light coat of automatic trany fluid can help with preservation

m1gunner · #3 09-12-2010, 11:57 PM

MTM makes what they call a Long Term Handgun Storage Box. I have several and will buy more. "804 Handgun Storage Box" is how they list them.

Inexpensive, and can be locked with a TSA type padlock, so you can fly with it in a pinch.

Duster42 · #4 09-13-2010, 01:05 AM

Bore-Stores.

NE450No2 · #5 09-13-2010, 02:06 AM

Also give the handgun a good coat of RIG. [Rust Inhibiting Grease].

goldenlight · #6 09-13-2010, 03:31 AM

For long term storage, use GREASE, not oil. Oil will run down to the low spots, leaving metal unprotected.

You can buy lithium grease in an aerosol can, with one of those thin tubes on it. I've seen it at building supply stores.

ATF fluid is WAY too thin for storing firearms.

So is Rem Oil: I found out the hard way!

Onomea · #7 09-13-2010, 08:26 AM

I think ya gotta define long term. If you mean a year in a humid environment, I know for a fact that Sheathe or Kroil or the like in a double baggie/zip lock, all air squeezed out and rubber banded, works well. I suspect probably good for several years.

ImprovedModel56Fan · #8 09-13-2010, 08:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NE450No2

Also give the handgun a good coat of RIG. [Rust Inhibiting Grease].

I know from experience that this works. The RIGged gun should probably not touch anything absorbent or porous, except maybe S&W paper. Plastic bags are probably best. After that, you can use almost any container you want.

chief38 · #9 09-13-2010, 10:39 AM

The best way I have found to store handguns long term is:

Get some RIG UNIVERSAL and disassemble the gun. Coat EVERYTHING with the RIG, inside & out. I use an old shaving brush to put on a nice even "coat". Reassemble & leave the grips off. Wrap the gun in a double thickness of wax paper, then in aluminum foil.

You are now good to go in just about any situation short of a nuclear blast. Simple, easy and economical.

Regards,
chief38