Gun Gripes #353: "Running Your Guns Dry"

Published on April 3, 2023
Duration: 30:56

This video provides a detailed guide on proper firearm lubrication, focusing on the AR-15 platform. It emphasizes the importance of avoiding both dry firearms and over-lubrication, explaining the potential issues with each. The instructors detail specific points of lubrication on the AR-15's bolt carrier group, lower receiver, and buffer system, offering practical advice for optimal performance and longevity.

Quick Summary

Proper firearm lubrication is crucial for preventing wear, ensuring reliability, and aiding heat dissipation. Avoid running guns dry to prevent metal-on-metal contact and damage. Conversely, over-lubrication can create sludge, attract debris, and lead to malfunctions, especially in carry guns or firearms with wooden stocks.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Running Guns Dry
  2. 00:44Sponsor: Sonoran Desert Institute
  3. 01:27Pet Peeve: Brand New Dry Guns
  4. 02:36The Art of Lubrication
  5. 03:42Basic AR-15 Lubrication
  6. 04:24Phosphate vs. Nitrided/Nickel Boron Carriers
  7. 05:45Lower Receiver & Trigger Lubrication
  8. 06:36Recommended Lubricants (Rig Grease, Anti-Seize)
  9. 07:11Fire Control Group Lubrication
  10. 07:48Problems with Over-Lubrication
  11. 09:00Parkerizing and Lubricant Retention
  12. 11:36Source of Racket: Buffer Spring
  13. 12:01Buffer Spring Lubrication (Lubraplate)
  14. 13:42Lubrication Protocols for Other Rifles (M1 Garand, M14)
  15. 14:33Glock Lubrication (Copper Anti-Seize)
  16. 15:22Read the Manual!
  17. 16:21General Rule: If It Moves, Lube It
  18. 17:01Benefits of Proper Lubrication
  19. 17:30Carry Gun Lubrication Considerations
  20. 18:40AR-15 Over-Lubrication Issues
  21. 19:34Hunting Rifle Lubrication & Stock Damage
  22. 21:11Military Surplus Rifle Stock Issues
  23. 22:01Remington 7400/7600 Lubrication Issues
  24. 23:20Every Gun is Unique
  25. 24:04Personal Lubrication Stories
  26. 25:25Lubrication for Hunting
  27. 26:32Gun Oil Odor & Scaring Game
  28. 27:36Lubricating Bullets (Myth)
  29. 29:04Conclusion: Importance of Lubrication for New Owners

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main problems associated with running a firearm dry?

Running a firearm dry leads to metal-on-metal contact, causing unpleasant scraping sounds and potentially damaging components. This lack of lubrication increases friction, leading to premature wear and potential reliability issues, especially in critical situations.

What issues can arise from over-lubricating a firearm, particularly an AR-15?

Over-lubricating can create a sticky sludge of oil and carbon, which can harden and impede function. It can also cause excessive smoke, potential pressure issues if oil enters the chamber, and attract dirt and debris, leading to malfunctions.

How should an AR-15 bolt carrier group (BCG) be lubricated?

For phosphate BCGs, a few drops of oil on the carrier allow it to spread. For nitrided or nickel-boron BCGs, apply a light coat of lubricant manually to the carrier and bolt. Ensure the gas rings are also lubricated.

Why is proper lubrication important for firearms?

Proper lubrication prevents premature wear of components by creating a barrier against friction. It also aids in heat dissipation and ensures reliable operation, which is crucial for firearms used for self-defense, competition, or hunting.

What are the lubrication considerations for a carry gun?

Carry guns should be lubricated sufficiently for reliability but not excessively. Over-lubrication can attract pocket lint, dust, and debris, and gravity can cause oil to migrate into the chamber, potentially causing malfunctions. A light, effective coat is recommended.

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