Leave cocked or dry fire?

[Dustyrider]

I have an old Colt .25 hammerless auto pistol. Is it better to leave it cocked all the time, or dry fire it after use? I don't want to damage the firing pin by dry firing, or the spring by being compressed. Any suggestions or advice?

 

[Bobson]

If you can get a snap-cap , dropping the hammer on that would probably be the best option. But I have no clue if snap-caps are made in that caliber.

 

[toivo]

Yes, you can get snap caps in .25 ACP. Midway has them.

 

[Dustyrider]

Thanks, I have several other mouse guns, but they are Berettas with exposed hammers that I can drop without damage. The Colt is the easiest one to carry, and the most reliable to boot. I should get a spare striker and springs for the Colt anyway if they are available somewhere.

I will probably get a Ruger 380 LCP for regular carry soon.

 

[Kendal Black]

If you can't find a snap cap in .25, and come to think of it I have never seen one, take an expended cartridge, punch out the primer and fill the hole with rubber caulk.

Edited to add: Toivo has seen more than I have!