Storing with Slide/Bolt open

[nahfuten]

Can anyone comment on storing a handgun with the slide open (or a rifle with the bolt open, for that matter). I would guess it puts unnecessary stress on the spring, but has anyone noticed this causing premature failure?

I keep my rifle and handgun open with a cable lock through them in cases, and I wondered if this is an OK practice.

 

[slacker]

why not just remove the slide / bolt if safety is the concern? Or invest in a safe.

I have never stored any of my pistols with the slide locked back, but I can't imagine it being that bad for them.

 

[gund]

Springs don't wear out because they are compressed. They wear out because they are repeatedly stressed by compressing and releasing.

So you are fine keeping them stored anyway you want it.

For long arms some say storing barrel down will keep any excess oil from flowing into the chamber/action. In general store in any way that helps you out (e.g. takes less space).

 

[SamW]

When I had to store with a cable lock, I ran the cable and then SLOWLY closed the slide on the cable. An open chamber won't hurt your recoil spring, but it WILL allow dust and crap to settle in your chamber, feed ramp, rails, etc... not good.

 

[Archbishop]

When I had to store with a cable lock, I ran the cable and then SLOWLY closed the slide on the cable. An open chamber won't hurt your recoil spring, but it WILL allow dust and crap to settle in your chamber, feed ramp, rails, etc... not good.

I agree with this. only thing to add to it is for $20 you can buy small hand safe to Store your handguns then you won't need to. put cables thru them.

 

[Jack Ryan]

Can anyone comment on storing a handgun with the slide open (or a rifle with the bolt open, for that matter). I would guess it puts unnecessary stress on the spring, but has anyone noticed this causing premature failure?

I keep my rifle and handgun open with a cable lock through them in cases, and I wondered if this is an OK practice.

Peachy keen, I highly recomend it as a secure option short of a safe.