Preparing a 36 year old gun for its 1st shot

[NCBeagle]

I just purchased an unfired Model 37 (1972) and plan to shoot / carry it. As far as lube goes, should I just put a drop down by the hammer or remove the side plate to lightly lube the internals (note, I know not to overlube).

Thoughts?

Thanks.

 

[Shade00]

I wouldn't go inside her. It's unlikely you'll hurt anything, but if she's unfired, just put a little oil through the hammer - I'd probably also put some around the ejector shaft. Then go shoot the danged thing!

 

[DAdams]

I Can't

believe you are going to shoot that beauty.

But, since you are have fun and enjoy it. You may wish to investigate the Buffalo Bore Standard pressure for short barrel ammunition for carry purposes.

 

[Cosmoline]

You really don't need to lube anything on the revolver. You may want to give it a basic cleaning and apply some drops of CLP to it, but you might just want to leave it alone unless the trigger seems scratchy or there are other signs of internal rust.

Personally, I always pop the side plate to check the innards. I have to see what's what on any new firearm I have. Sometimes the oil in there has gotten black with dust and needs to be removed. But if it's nice and dry without corrosion a few drops of CLP to prevent rust to steel parts is more than sufficient.

 

[lee n. field]

What good is a gun you don't shoot?

 

[machinisttx]

What good is a gun you don't shoot?

About as much as breeding stock that doesn't produce.

 

[Elvishead]

I would try to get some real light oil like Rem Oil to the inside moving parts at least if your not going to open it up for inspection.

I guess I would run some oiled patch's down the barrel then a few strokes with a bore brush, then more patch's.

Then shoot

 

[greener]

I've been shooting an S&W M&P .38 special that was purchased as a used gun in 1932 since the early '70's. Actually learned to shoot handguns with it in the early '60's. I've cleaned it regularly, but I've never had it apart. Guess it's about time to take a look at the insides.

Unless I was a serious collector, I'd shoot the Mod 37. Why else have one?