Proper Storage to Protect Spring Tension

Would the proper way to store my "03" rifles be with the bolt open or bolt closed and the trigger pulled? I'm trying to save the spring life. I do not want to have any more tension than needed on a 90+ year old striker spring. Also are there any other springs that are under tension that can be relieved to help protect them? Thanks in advance to all comments.

For spring tension purposes, the best way to store your rifle is with the striker down, magazine empty, and trigger released.

Hope this helps.

J.B.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by John Beard

For spring tension purposes, the best way to store your rifle is with the striker down, magazine empty, and trigger released.

Hope this helps.

J.B.

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To add to John's statement; Do NOT dry-fire; with the bolt open, just hold back on the trigger and close the bolt. That will release tension on the mainspring without doing any possible damage to other parts.

HTH,

Emri

I close the bolt and then hold the cocking piece. Pull the trigger and slooowly let the cocking piece move to an uncocked position.

Thanks for all the help people!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Doug Rammel

I close the bolt and then hold the cocking piece. Pull the trigger and slooowly let the cocking piece move to an uncocked position.

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Yes, that works just fine. UNLESS you have oily fingers like I have most of the time !! Don't let it slip !! I also deal with mostly modern sporting arms and the don't have anything to grasp. Either method will work well.

FWIW,

Emri

Ermi

The OP asked about an 03 not a modern sporting rifle.

With the bolt in the "closed" position there is more pressure on the mainspring than when it is merely "open". Therefore, the way that Emri suggested to close the bolt, will provide less "wear" on the spring.

If your worried about spring tension wear, just disassemble the bolt! Just kidding, because then you would'nt be ready to blast somebody! :madsmile: