Everything, Yes Everything!
Everything requires maintenance and so do Co2 airguns. If you were to purchase a Magnum Research Desert Eagle L6 CO2 Blowback BB Pistol, you may be under the impression that all you’ll ever need to do is purchase new Air VenturiCo2 12 Gram Cartridges and Air Venturi Steel BB’s. Don’t settle in that perspective, as was said, everything needs maintenance.
Co2 Maintenance Is Proper Operation and Care
- Read the manual and follow the instructions.
- Load Co2 and ammunition properly.
- Keep clean, dry and lubricated where necessary.
- Proper storage.
Read the Product Manual
Reading the manual is extremely important. If you decide to fumble around and attempt to figure it out yourself you may find yourself holding nothing more than regret. You may think all Co2 airguns are created equal, let me assure you some are very different and require a specific operation. Always keep your manual handy in case you forget the details over time, then you’ll have it to refer back to if necessary.
Lubrication and Loading
When loading the twelve gram Co2 cartridge be sure to lubricate the top of the cartridge with RWS Chamber Lube Oil. Be sure to load the cartridge in the proper direction so the piercing pin is able to accomplish its purpose. When you keep the airgun lubricated properly it will prolong the life of the seals. Before you put the lube away, the BB pistol we’re talking about is a blowback pistol, which will require some oil on the rail or slide to keep it operating smoothly.
Loading the BB’s correctly will also assure you have a functional airgun. This one has a fifteen round drop free spring loaded magazine. Ensure that you insert the bb’s in the correct place and don’t force them or over load it. If overloaded it may damage the spring and the bbs won’t feed properly.
Before Cleaning And Storing
You’ve finished at the range or your backyard and it’s time to put your Co2 pistol away. Don’t just unzip the case and slide it in, there are a few steps you’ll need to take first. Make sure there are no bbs left in the magazine so the spring doesn’t become fatigued and from a safety perspective there are no projectiles left in the airgun that may get discharged unaware.
NEVER, EVER, EVER leave the Co2 cartridge in the chamber, either shoot the Co2 out to deplete it or use the bleed screw to release the remaining gas from the cartridge. When the cartridge is empty remove the cartridge and discard it.
A Clean Airgun Is A Happy Airgun
Depending upon your location, your environment plays a huge role in the longevity of the airguns. In the desert it’s dry and dusty which can lead to dry rotted seals and a gritty function or failure to function.
Hot humid climates threaten to rust things. So whatever climate you abide in, keeping your Co2 airgun stored in appropriate temperatures and housed in a protective manor will assure it’s smooth operation.
The exterior of the airgun requires an occasional wipe down with oil. The barrel would benefit from a run through of a cloth from the Hoppes .177 Caliber Cleaning Kit or shoot some Air Venturi Quick Cleaning Pellets through the barrel to keep it lubricated, preventing rust and freeing it from debris.
The Enjoyment Prolonged
If you continue in these steps you’ll have a much higher chance of enjoying your new purchase for a long time to come. Happy and safe shooting and remember to treat all airguns as you would a firearm, always keep the safety engaged until you’re ready to take your shot and keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
