Smyth Busters: Is It OK to Lubricate Magazines?

Published on January 18, 2022
Duration: 3:56

This video debunks the myth of lubricating firearm magazines with traditional wet lubricants, explaining they attract debris and can cause malfunctions. Instead, it recommends using dry, graphite-based lubricants like Otis Dry Lube on magazine springs and followers. While polymer magazines are often self-lubricating, dry lube can still benefit them and is especially useful for metal magazines to ensure smooth feeding.

Quick Summary

It's generally not recommended to use traditional liquid lubricants or CLPs on firearm magazines, as they attract debris and can cause malfunctions. Instead, opt for dry film lubricants, like graphite-based options, which dry quickly and ensure smooth operation of the magazine spring and follower.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Magazine Lubrication Myth
  2. 00:44Problems with Liquid Lubricants
  3. 01:37The Solution: Dry Lubricants
  4. 02:26Polymer Magazines & Cleaning
  5. 03:13Final Verdict: Myth Busted

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to lubricate firearm magazines?

It's generally not recommended to use traditional liquid lubricants or CLPs on firearm magazines. These wet lubes attract dust, lint, and debris, which can gum up the mechanism and lead to malfunctions. A dry lubricant is a much better alternative.

What type of lubricant should I use for my gun magazines?

The best option for lubricating firearm magazines is a dry film lubricant, often graphite-based. Products like Otis Dry Lube are ideal. They dry quickly, don't attract debris, and help ensure smooth operation of the magazine spring and follower.

How do I apply dry lubricant to a magazine?

To apply dry lubricant, first disassemble the magazine. Then, spray the magazine spring and follower with the dry lubricant. Allow it to dry almost instantly before reassembling the magazine. This process helps maintain reliable feeding.

Do polymer magazines need lubrication?

Polymer magazines, such as Magpul PMAGs, are often designed to be self-lubricating. However, applying a dry lubricant to the spring and follower can still be beneficial for preserving the components and ensuring consistent performance over time.

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