Cold weather gun storage outside

[iamnyssa]

Here's a little backstory: I live in an area in which the temp can range from -5F to 50F during the winter(depending on the day). My hometown is about 45 minutes to an hour a way from work, and there is an indoor range in the same town as my office that I want to go to.

My question is, how bad would it be for me to store my S&M MP(with all it's polymer) in my trunk all day while I'm at work? The same question applies for my Mossberg 20-guage, Ruger 10-22 and ammunition.

Thanks,
Nyssa

 

[Rem700SD]

As far as the actual firearm is concerned, temperature is not the major problem, moisture is. What finish is on the metal of the guns? When you take them indoors, I believe that there will be some frost/condensation. Also, scopes will fog up when taken into warmer areas. Be prepared to wipe down the outside, and do periodic break down and oilings to check for rust.

Dan

 

[Nhsport]

Yes-Moisture is the stinker.I have openen cases after a fairly short time and found an unbelievable ammount of wetness.
Reminds me.I went to the range yesterday and still have a bunch of guns still in the cases. I need to go let them breath and start cleaning them!

 

[carebear]

At your temps standard gun oil should be okay, but watch for gumming.

Ammo can do funny things at cold temps, but I don't think 5 below is a big deal.

Others probably know better.

 

[JohnBT]

Our winter temps are more like 15 or 20 up to 60 and I've left my carry guns in the car (because, that's why) for years while I'm in the office. I might shoot the ammo up every month or two, but the guns aren't any the worse for wear.

I leave my duck guns outside overnight to avoid the condensation problem; either locked in the trunk or in the garage depending on where we're hunting. The major problem is sleet freezing the trunk shut and having to chip it open at 5:30 a.m.

John

 

[thexrayboy]

For years I have routinely locked my carry weapon in secure storage in my Jeep while working. The temperatures they endure range from above 100
at the beginning of my workshift to -15 when I leave work around midnight.
I change out the ammo in my daily carry weapon every 6 months. It then becomes target ammo. It has always fired without fail. The ammo holds up fine to extremes, I would not however trust ammo subjected to that type of abuse for several years. Change out your ammo regularly. All carry ammo is subject to regular variations in environment. I usually carry combat tupperware and it is relatively impervious to the problems of condensation etc. Any good quality gun will be fine as long as you wipe condensation off of it and clean/oil it faithfully. Guns are sturdy machines and if given even minimal care will endure a lot.

 

[iamnyssa]

Thanks

You all have been a big help. Thanks for the advice!