Author Topic: storing pumps (Read 652 times)

mtnoyster · « **on:** December 10, 2005, 01:21:52 PM »

is it ok to store my pumps cocked? i didn't want to dry fire them one more time so i left them alone.

Dirigo · « **Reply #1 on:** December 10, 2005, 02:33:51 PM »

it wont hurt them to dry fire them or keep them cocked.

wink_man · « **Reply #2 on:** December 10, 2005, 04:36:53 PM »

If you keep the gun cocked for any extended period, you are ultimately placing undue strain on the hammer spring, and ultimately weakening it. It won't hurt to dry fire occasionally, like after cleaning, but why not buy a snap cap and insert it into the chamber after cleaning, then you can dry fire it with no concern at all.
Sincerely,
Garry

mtnoyster · « **Reply #3 on:** December 10, 2005, 06:59:09 PM »

Thanks guys!!!

mjbgalt · « **Reply #4 on:** December 11, 2005, 09:49:57 AM »

actually a couple guys on here checked into it and a spring doesn't weaken by being compressed, it is weakened over time by being compressed and released a zillion times.

they have found WWII guns and picked 'em up and fired a whole clipful, because those springs were stored compressed and didnt get emptied and compressed over the years.

and if its really that much of a worry, buy a new spring every few years.

-Matt

texagun · « **Reply #5 on:** December 11, 2005, 10:53:31 AM »

I second the recommendation for releasing the trigger with a snap-cap in the chamber. It will prevent peening of the firing pin hole in the bolt caused by repeated firing with an empty chamber.

Shorty · « **Reply #6 on:** December 11, 2005, 11:13:29 AM »

Gee, I just let the hammer down on mine (Win. '97).

:wink:

Graybeard · « **Reply #7 on:** December 11, 2005, 05:17:51 PM »

You're unlikely to live long enough for it to matter either way. Neither dry firing nor leaving it cocked is a problem. Mine stays cocked at all times with safety on fully loaded and barrel down ready to be grabbed and used as needed.

Daks · « **Reply #8 on:** December 22, 2005, 10:33:49 AM »

My Dad's shotgun is a Model 12 from 1916. He got it from his father. The gun has never been uncocked. Heck, it has only been cleaned once in all that time period. No problems.

corbanzo · « **Reply #9 on:** January 09, 2006, 08:25:56 AM »

And if you are so worried about dry-firing, you don't have to. Most shotguns have the little lever/button near the trigger to release the action from its cocked/locked position when you want to use it.