Getting a rifle comes with a whole lot of responsibility. Initially, you may have decided to purchase your gun for fun, but it is definitely not fun and games to learn how to properly handle it. There are a few things you need to know about before you start shooting at the range.
To be able to ensure that your new rifle is working as it should, you need to perform a few maintenance checks first. This will make a world of difference when it comes to ensuring the safety of yourself and everyone else around when you shoot for the first time.
Maintenance Tips for Your New Rifle: What to Do Before Firing
Before you will be able to show off your shooting skills, there are a few things you need to do to ensure the safety of everyone around you when you fire that rifle for the first time.
1 – Read the Owner’s Manual
Even if you feel that you know your new rifle pretty well, there is nothing to lose if you take out the user’s manual and read it. You may not think so yet now, but there is really useful information in that small booklet that comes with your gun. Information that you need to know before shooting is all in the manual.
2 – Take it Apart and Clean
If you take a closer inspection of your new rifle, you will notice that it is covered in a thick, sticky film. This is rust preventative. While it is great to keep rust from forming on your gun before you get your hands on it, it may cause problems in the inner workings of your gun later on if you do not take time to clean it off. Referring to the user’s manual will come in handy if you are not sure how to disassemble your gun and clean it.
3 – Lubricate the Locking Logs
This is often the most forgotten step when preparing a new rifle for use. If you have already wiped down the dolt with oil, there may already be enough lubrication on it. It is important that you do not over-lubricate the bolt either.
4 – Test the Trigger
Once you will have finished cleaning and lubricating the bolt, you will now be ready to test the trigger. Remember to make sure that the chamber and magazine are empty before doing this. Engage the safety and point the gun in a safe direction and pull the trigger. You should hear a “click” and see that the firing pin will move forward.
5 – Inspect the Stock
Check the stock inletting around the trigger, magazine, and receiver. If the stock comes into metal in any of these areas, you need to create some clearance to prevent any vibrations through the wood. These vibrations may throw off accuracy and affect your shot.
Conclusion
Performing these maintenance checks before heading to the shooting range will ensure that your rifle is safe, functional, and free from any dangerous defects. After you will have finished these checks, you will be ready to have fun and make the most of your brand new rifle!
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