How to Lube and Maintain a Bolt Action For Smooth Cycling

Published on December 31, 2022
Duration: 14:42

This video details the proper lubrication and maintenance of bolt-action rifle bolts for optimal cycling and safety. It emphasizes degreasing the bolt, using specialized synthetic lubricants like Bore Tech Friction Guard XP for the body, and specific greases like Bore Tech Extreme Grease HD for the lugs. Crucially, it warns against over-lubrication, especially near the firing pin and sear, to prevent dangerous slam fires and ensure reliable operation.

Quick Summary

Proper bolt action maintenance involves degreasing, applying specialized lubricants like Bore Tech Friction Guard XP to the body, and greasing the lugs with Bore Tech Extreme Grease HD. Crucially, keep the bolt face and sear area completely dry to prevent dangerous slam fires and ensure reliable cycling.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Cleaning Products
  2. 01:09Risks of Improper Lubrication
  3. 02:54Recommended Bolt Lubricant
  4. 04:10Applying Bolt Body Lubricant
  5. 06:55Greasing Bolt Lugs
  6. 09:19Final Inspection & Safety

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key steps to properly lube a bolt action rifle?

First, thoroughly degrease the bolt. Then, consider slightly heating it to open pores. Apply a specialized synthetic lubricant like Bore Tech Friction Guard XP to the bolt body and wipe it dry. Finally, always apply grease to the bolt lugs using a product like Bore Tech Extreme Grease HD.

What are the dangers of over-lubricating a bolt action rifle?

Over-lubrication can attract dirt and debris, causing the action to gum up. More critically, excess lubricant near the firing pin or sear can prevent the sear from catching the firing pin, leading to dangerous 'slam fires'.

What specific products does Gary Melton recommend for bolt action maintenance?

For degreasing, he suggests Bore Tech Bore Eliminator or Lucas Contact Cleaner. For the bolt body, Bore Tech Friction Guard XP is recommended. For bolt lugs, Bore Tech Extreme Grease HD is the preferred choice.

Why is it important to keep the bolt face and sear area dry?

These areas must remain completely dry to ensure safe and reliable operation. Lubricant in these critical zones can interfere with the firing pin mechanism, potentially causing malfunctions or unsafe firing conditions.

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