The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - How did they make Blackpowder Firearms Last in the old days

Munro Williams · April 13, 2001, 08:01 AM

I used to use hot soapy water also, and to avoid rust I'd put the barrel in the oven to quickly evaporate all the water before I oiled it down inside and out. Worked OK: no rust in the breechblock. But I've heard tell of LOTS of rusted out breechblocks, also.

I imagine the old timers would do something similar.

April 13, 2001, 08:01 AM	#8
Munro Williams Senior Member Join Date: January 13, 2000 Location: Richmond, VA Posts: 936	I used to use hot soapy water also, and to avoid rust I'd put the barrel in the oven to quickly evaporate all the water before I oiled it down inside and out. Worked OK: no rust in the breechblock. But I've heard tell of LOTS of rusted out breechblocks, also. I imagine the old timers would do something similar.