Keeping your firearm in pristine condition by taking steps to prevent gun rust ensures its reliability and accuracy, and also extends its lifespan. Your gun is likely designed to weather a great many conditions, but corrosion is nonetheless a persistent problem.

Rust can adversely impact both the appearance and function of your firearm, throwing off accuracy and potentially imperiling both the user and those around them. It can happen pretty quickly too. One study by the National Institute of Justice found that handguns were virtually unidentifiable after they were left to rust just three months. Unfortunately, too many gun owners may unwittingly store their guns for longer than that in conditions that inevitably put them at risk for rust. 

Fortunately, Zerust offers a number of simple, affordable solutions to prevent gun rust. 

Rust is caused by the oxidation of metal, and in a humid or wet environment, it can develop quickly. Gun manufacturers have gotten better about using materials and protective coatings that can help protect firearms for some time. That said, those upgrades are neither full-proof or forever, especially if you don’t take care of your gun in storage. 

The good news is that with the proper care and maintenance, you can prevent rust on your valuable firearms, keeping your weapons in top shape. Here, we share some simple steps that can be taken to prevent gun rust and keep your piece in good working order.

Regular Gun Cleaning

Cleaning the firearm after use is the most important step in rust prevention. Thorough cleaning removes any moisture, powder residue, and debris that might contribute to rust formation. Use a cleaning kit designed for your specific firearm and follow manufacturer’s recommended cleaning procedures. 

• Barrel: Use a bore brush and cleaning patches to remove residue from the barrel.
• Action and Moving Parts: Wipe down moving parts with a solvent to remove grime and residue. Our Zerust Gun Cleaner cleans triggers, tubes, chambers and barrels with ease. It dissolves powder residue, fouling and deposits to keep your firearm firing like new.
• Exterior: Clean the exterior of your firearm with a cloth and gentle cleaning solution.

Dry Your Gun Thoroughly

After cleaning, ensure your firearm is completely dry before storing it. Residual moisture can lead to rust. Use a clean, dry cloth to thoroughly wipe down all parts, and then there are several options to fully dry a firearm. Compressed air can be used to blow water out of nooks and crannies in the mechanism, or a gentle heat from a blow dryer can help. We’ve heard of toaster ovens and more aggressive heat sources being used to dry firearm parts but check with the manufacturer to be sure this won’t damage any parts.

Prevent Gun Rust With Zerust Gun Oil

Once your gun is clean and dry, apply a rust preventative product to create a protective barrier against moisture and oxidation. We recommend Zerust Gun Oil.  Apply a thin layer of high-quality gun oil to all metal surfaces. This oil forms a protective coating that prevents rust.

Store in a Controlled Environment

Where and how you store your firearm plays a significant role in preventing rust. The ideal storage condition is a cool, dry environment. Store your firearm in a place with low humidity and stable temperatures. Avoid areas prone to dampness, such as basements or attics. Ideally, use a quality gun safe or cabinet to protect your firearm from environmental factors and increase security. Look for safes with dehumidifiers or moisture-absorbing products inside.

In addition, you can add these rust and moisture protection products to your firearm rust prevention strategy:

• Silica Gel Packs: Placing silica gel packs in your storage area can help absorb excess moisture and keep the environment dry.
• Zerust Rust Prevention Vapor Capsule: Our rust prevention vapor capsules use a patented, corrosion-inhibiting formula. These versatile capsules release an odorless vapor into your existing storage containers which contains VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) molecules. These powerful molecules surround the surface of your metals, electronics, sporting and home goods and firearms, creating an invisible rust shield that protects your valued items.
• Zerust Tube and Barrel Strip: For easy rust prevention, simply insert a Tube and Barrel Strip into the metal tube, pipe or barrel you want to protect and cap the ends shut. The air inside the pipe will then fill with our patented VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) formula, protecting it from rust and corrosion.The vapor will harmlessly dissipate when you uncap the ends of the pipe.
• Zerust VCI Firearm Protection Bags are designed to shield your guns, rifles and weapons from harmful rust. Our durable gun storage bags offer long-lasting corrosion protection thanks to our specially designed rust prevention technology.

Use a Dehumidifier

For those living in particularly humid areas, a dehumidifier is a wise investment. It helps to maintain a low humidity level in your storage space, significantly reducing the risk of rust. You can use a small, portable dehumidifier or a larger unit depending on the size of your storage area.

Inspect Your Gun Storage Space Regularly

Perform regular inspections of your firearm, even if it’s not in use. Look for any signs of moisture or early rust formation. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage. Regular inspections also give you a chance to reapply protective coatings as needed.

Use Rust Prevention Products During Transport

When transporting your firearm, especially in humid or variable weather conditions, use rust prevention products like gun socks or silicone-treated gun cases. These provide an extra layer of protection against moisture during transit. For increased rust protection, try our Fleece Lined Firearm Bag that incorporates VCI rust protection into a protective bag.

Avoid Using Abrasive Cleaners

Resist using abrasive cleaners or cloths that can scratch the surface of your firearm. Scratches can create small areas where moisture can settle and lead to rust. Stick to non-abrasive cleaning tools and solutions to maintain the integrity of the metal.

Conclusion

Preventing rust on your firearm is essential for maintaining its functionality and appearance. By incorporating these tips into your routine maintenance, you can protect your investment and ensure that your firearm remains reliable for years to come. With a little diligence and care, you can keep your firearm in excellent condition and enjoy peace of mind knowing it’s ready for any situation.

Remember, a well-maintained firearm not only performs better but also retains its value and can be a cherished part of your collection for generations. 

Contact Zerust for information on how to prevent gun and corrosion by emailing us or calling (330) 405-1965.

Additional Resources:

Rust-Prevention Tips for Your Guns, June 15, 2018, By Steve Adelmann, NRA Shooting Illustrated

More Blog Entries:

How to Protect Your New Gun From Rust and Corrosion, March 22, 2020, Zerust Gun Rust Prevention Blog