Prepping Your Firearm for Warmer Months: 5 Essential Maintenance Tips

Thanks to Underwood Ammo for providing valuable guidance on seasonal firearm maintenance. Their commitment to performance and reliability extends beyond just ammunition—helping shooters stay prepared in every condition. They get all the credit for this article. 

Prepping Your Firearm for Warmer Months: 5 Essential Maintenance Tips

As temperatures rise and outdoor activities increase, it’s time to give your firearms the attention they deserve. Heat, humidity, and frequent handling can all affect performance, so proper maintenance is key to ensuring reliability throughout the spring and summer months.

Here’s how to keep your firearm in top shape as the seasons change:

1. Deep Clean After Winter Storage

Cold weather can lead to moisture buildup and excess lubricant residue, which may cause corrosion or sluggish performance. Before heading out to the range or carrying daily, take the time to:

• Strip down your firearm and clean all moving parts.
• Remove dirt, carbon buildup, and any lingering winter lubricant.
• Apply a fresh coat of protectant to prevent rust.

A clean firearm is a reliable firearm—don't let winter grime slow you down.

2. Use the Right Lubricant for Warm Weather

Not all lubricants perform the same in different temperatures. What worked well in the winter might become too thin in the summer heat, leading to excessive buildup and attracting dust.

To keep your firearm functioning smoothly:

• Switch to a heat-resistant lubricant designed for high-temperature performance.
• Apply lubricant sparingly to avoid excess residue.
• Test your firearm after lubricating to ensure smooth cycling.

We like to use Gun Butter. 

3. Protect Against Humidity and Sweat

Increased humidity and sweaty hands can accelerate rust and wear on metal components. To prevent corrosion:

• Wipe down your firearm with a dry cloth after each use.
• Store your firearm in a temperature-controlled, low-humidity environment.
• Consider using moisture-absorbing silica gel packs in your gun safe.

A little prevention now can save you from dealing with rust damage later.

4. Inspect Your Ammo for Storage Wear

If your ammunition has been sitting through fluctuating winter temperatures, it's important to check it before loading up.

• Look for tarnished or corroded casings.
• Inspect primers for signs of wear or moisture exposure.
• Rotate your stock to ensure you're using fresh, reliable rounds.

Reliable ammo means reliable performance when it counts. Underwood Ammo is known for their precision-engineered rounds, so be sure to stock up on fresh, high-quality ammunition for the season ahead.

5. Adjust for Seasonal Shooting Conditions

Warmer air density and higher humidity levels can slightly impact bullet trajectory. To stay on target:

• Take a trip to the range and test your accuracy.
• Make small sighting adjustments if necessary.
• Practice in different weather conditions to improve consistency.

A well-maintained firearm ensures peak performance when you need it most. By taking these simple steps now, you’ll avoid malfunctions and keep your gear in top condition all season long.

Big thanks to Underwood Ammo for their insights and commitment to helping shooters stay prepared year-round.

Do you have any spring and summer firearm maintenance tips of your own? Share them in the comments!