Rust can be an incredibly destructive force, particularly for firearms. Guns are expensive investments, and when rust starts to form, it can cause irreparable damage to your firearm.
So, you might be wondering how to get rust off a gun.
Fortunately, there are ways to get rid of rust and protect your gun from future corrosion. This guide aims to provide you with the information you need to know to effectively remove rust from a firearm and protect it from further rusting.
To remove rust from a run, you’ll need to use steel wool to remove loose rust, apply WD40 to affected areas, brush off the rust with a wire brush, use a cloth to wipe away more rust, remove rust from tight corners, and lubricate the gun.
Let’s dig into more detail
What is Rust & How is it Caused?
Rust is a common oxidation process caused by the reaction of iron with oxygen and water. Rust forms a reddish-brown coating that can corrode and weaken the metal surface of your gun.
Rust can be caused by moisture, humidity, and exposure to salty air, so it’s important to store your gun in a cool, dry place. If you live in an area with high humidity, you may need to pay extra attention to your gun to make sure it isn’t rusting.
You should also take care to keep your gun clean and dry. After every use, make sure you give your gun a thorough cleaning and then dry it off completely with a clean cloth. This will help prevent rust from forming.
By the way, here’s our article on how long gun shells last.
How to Get Rust Off a Gun
Removing rust from a firearm requires a few basic supplies and some elbow grease. Here are the tools and materials you’ll need:
- Steel wool
- Rust remover (such as WD-40 – article)
- Lubricant (such as gun oil)
- Clean cloths
- Wire brush
- Vacuum Cleaner
- (optional) Toothbrush/Q-tips/toothpicks/cotton swabs
Step 1: Initial Cleaning
Begin by cleaning the area with steel wool to remove any loose rust. Be sure to use a light touch when scrubbing, as too much pressure can scratch the gun’s finish.
Step 2: Application
Apply a rust remover (such as WD-40) to the affected area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. The rust remover should help to dissolve the rust and make it easier to remove.
Step 3: Secondary Cleaning
Use a wire brush to gently scrub the area. Be sure to scrub in a circular motion to loosen the rust and remove it from the surface.
Step 4: Tertiary Cleaning
Once the rust has been removed, use a clean cloth to wipe away any residue.
Step 5: Tight Corners
If you’re still having trouble getting all the rust off, you can use a toothbrush, Q-tips, toothpicks, or cotton swabs to get into hard-to-reach areas.
Step 6: Vacuum
Once you’ve removed as much rust as possible, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining particles.
Step 7: Lubricate
Apply a lubricant (such as gun oil) to the area to help protect it from future rust.
How to Prevent Rust
Once you’ve gotten the rust off your gun, the next step is to take steps to prevent rust from forming again. Here are a few tips to help you keep your gun rust-free:
Step 1: Clean & Oil
Clean and oil your gun after every use. Removing any dirt, dust, or debris that can cause rust to form on your gun is important. Cleaning your gun should be done after each use using a solvent and a rag. Make sure to completely dry your gun after cleaning.
Here are the best gun oils SPECIFICALLY for removing rust.
Step 2: Proper Storage
Store your gun in a dry place. Avoid storing your gun in humid environments, as this can increase the chances of rust forming. If possible, store your gun in an airtight container to help prevent moisture from forming on the metal parts.
Step 3: Moisture Prevention
Use a gun sock or similar cover to keep your gun free from moisture.
Step 4: Regular Insepction
Inspect your gun regularly for signs of rust. Make sure to check all of the metal parts for any signs of rust. If you find any rust, it is important to remove it immediately.
Use a rust remover specifically designed for firearms, as this will help to ensure that the rust is removed without damaging the metal.
By following these steps, you can keep your gun in good condition and prevent rust from forming in the future.
Final Words
Rust can be a formidable enemy for firearms, but it can be removed with the right supplies and some elbow grease.
This guide on how to get rust off a gun has outlined the steps needed to effectively remove rust from a firearm and protect it from further corrosion. You can keep your gun looking and functioning like new with the right approach.
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