Fifteen years ago, Gun Test magazine author, Charie Cutshaw, authored an article concerning a test on the then new HK Model P2000 pistol. As a part of the test, Mr. Cutshaw advised" "...A final note regarding the LEM: when the slide is worked to the rear and sets the hammer against the sear, the hammer is under tension by the mainspring. For this reason, HK recommends that the pistol be cleared and the hammer dropped on an empty chamber prior to placing the pistol in long-term storage. This is probably a very good idea. as it is not advisable to place any device in long-term storage with springs under tension."
I contacted Heckler & Koch and asked them what they meant by "long term". On August 10, 2004, Mr. Mark Osborne, Customer Service Manager, responded, "HK recommends that the P2000 pistol be cleared and the hammer dropped on an empty chamber prior to long term storage to protect the life of the spring." Does this advice have real merit or is it nothing more than "cya" corporate double-speak? I have no idea but the rationale that springs under tension have a lifespan shorter than those "at rest" does seem to have some validity in a "common sense" import. How much "shorter" and what it means in a practical sense is the question I have.