Do older guns rust more readily?

Question

I have a 1952 Winchester Model 94 30-30 and a Ithaca Model 37. They are stored in a Stack On gun safe. I keep both guns wiped down after each handling and keep all the metal surfaces oiled. They both seem to show bits of rust while the other "newer" guns don't show any rust at all. It's frustrating and I'm not sure what to do about it.

Answer 1

You need to keep moisture out of your gun safe by using a dessicant to take moisture out of the air. Some older guns have worn down blueing and even though you can;t tell with your eyes there are thin spots that will start to rust first. The reason for worn down blueing is usually just handling them over the years. You can buy dessicants online or in stores, either silica dessicant or a rod like a golden rod that heats the air and removes moisture.

Answer 2

There is another excellant product called Eez-Ox and I think it is sold by LeHigh Valley shooters. This is a very reliable protectant and is used in many museums for old firearms and swords. Check for  this on-line. Not very expensive when considering how far a little goes. It is used alot for black powder weapons since they tend to rust quickly.

Answer 3

Put them in a silicone gun sock before storing them.*

Answer 4

I would put them in a silicone gun sock when storing, and an idea (I don't know if it would work or not) but maybe you should look into buying an old gun cleaning kit because using a kit that wa smade around the time that the guns where made may help with the rust problem because it could have a diffrent assortment of oils or chemicals in them that are made to clean the older guns while the newer kits are made for the new type of materials (metals).

Answer 5

The silica, and the gun socks work, but instead of oiling them, wax them.  I know people who use neutral shoe polish, and others who use car wax.  Museums wax their weapons to prevent rust.  Wax will not run down, and spoil the wood either.

Answer 6

If the bluing is worn they will rust easier.  

Get some kind of de-humidifier for the safe.  They make packages of silica for the purpuse.  

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