Here's a tip for doubles shooters! - Machine Underground -Tractor & Commercial Equipment Discussion Forum

**gunmaker** · 12-06-2007, 12:24 AM

Most shooters put their doubles away after use, by cleaning and oiling them. Then they are returned to their resting place, in the cabinet, safe, the corner of the the room, or behind the door. The vast majority set them down butt first, then lean the barrels into whatever will cradle the barrels. These old guns, with whom we trust fond memories deserve better treatment.
When you place an old double upright in its place with the butt down, bad things begin to happen, slowly...so very slowly. The oils so lovingly applied run down through the mechanism, proded by gravity and the warmth of our homes. These oils find there way to the buttstock, and over the course of many years damage the stock. The oils are drawn into the wood, where it causes the wood to discolor, attract dirt and other oils. Soon the wood has some level of saturation, and begins to become spongy. The stock over the course of a generation becomes weak and unserviceable, requiring re-stocking ($) and refinishing. Soooo, take a moment, and find a place where you can store those ole doubles muzzle down. You will be rewarded in a generation with a servicable weapon, caringly preserved for a generation, the next.
gunmaker