How to Care for Your Hunting Firearms in the Off-Season

Written by HLRBO - Alexandra Carter| 3/4/2023

As a responsible gun owner, you understand the importance of firearm maintenance. When you take proper care of your firearms, you can guarantee you’ll be able to use them safely and reliably for hunting seasons to come. But what about during the off-season, when you may not be using your firearms as frequently? In this blog post, we will go over some tips on how to care for your firearms during the off-season.

Caring for Hunting Firearms in the Off-Season

Follow these expert tips to keep your firearms in tip-top shape:

Clean and Lubricate

The first step is to clean your firearms thoroughly. Even if you did not fire your gun during the last hunting season, it might still have accumulated dust, dirt, and moisture. Begin by disassembling your firearm and wiping down all metal surfaces with a clean cloth. Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for firearms, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Once you have cleaned your firearm, apply a light coating of lubricant to all moving parts. This will help to prevent rust and keep it functioning smoothly.  

Proper Storage

You should store your firearms in a cool, dry place that is free from humidity. Exposure to moisture can cause rust to form, which can damage your firearm’s metal surfaces and compromise its performance. The ideal place to store your firearms is in a gun safe because it provides safety, security, and protection from the elements.

Also be sure to store your firearms in a way that prevents them from rubbing against each other. This can cause scratches and other damage to the metal surfaces. Consider using a gun rack or gun case to keep your firearms separated.

Watch for Signs of Damage

Even if you’re not using your firearms during the off-season, it’s still important to inspect them regularly for any signs of damage. Look for signs of rust or corrosion on the metal surfaces, as well as any cracks or other damage to the stock or other parts of the firearm. If you notice any issues, take your firearm to a professional for repair.

Why Store Firearms Properly?

If you’re used to “storing” your hunting firearms in the back of your truck or hanging in a bag in your garage, you may be wondering if you really need to properly store them. Consider the following reasons to take the extra time to properly store your firearms:

1. Safety: Proper storage helps make sure that kids, thieves, and anyone else who is not authorized to handle firearms gets near yours.
2. Protection: Storing firearms in a dry and secure location protects them from environmental factors such as humidity, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to sunlight — all factors that can cause rust, corrosion, and damage to your guns, which can affect their performance and accuracy.
3. Longevity: Firearms are an investment and can last for several years if they are stored properly. Proper storage can help to extend the life of your firearms, reducing the need for repairs or replacement.
4. Legal compliance: In many states, laws require gun owners to store their firearms safely and securely. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences and liability if your firearms are used in a crime or accident.

By following the above tips, you can help to keep your firearms in top condition and ensure safe and happy hunting.

HLRBO Can Help

Need a place to hunt? Browse HLRBO’s nationwide hunting leases today with our Leasefinder.