Whether you use your handgun regularly for target practice, hunting, and other activities or you keep it for protection, wear and tear could damage your firearm and lead to malfunctions. The gun can be repaired in many cases, avoiding the need to replace it entirely. If you’re new to gun ownership, the ideal first step is to take a gun safety class to learn how to handle and maintain your gun so you can keep it functioning properly. Below are some of the reasons guns have to be repaired and how often.
Parts
Some firearm parts break more frequently than others, but you don’t need to replace the entire handgun. Instead, you can inspect the parts regularly to do quick repairs or take the gun to a local shop for maintenance. For example, the extractor is a part that can break periodically and need repair or replacement to keep your favorite handgun operating correctly. Most breakages, such as with slide stops, are only temporary, and you have time to fix the situation. These parts are often more durable on modern handguns because manufacturers make changes to create guns that are built to last. However, the firearm still needs your attention to prevent a simple repair from turning into a complete replacement.
Dirty Guns
Cleaning your handgun regularly is necessary to prevent the chamber from corroding. A dirty chamber can lead to malfunctions when not properly maintained. If the gun is too dirty and experiences problems discharging or extracting, it could mean one of two things. The gun either needs to be cleaned and lubricated very well, or something may need to be replaced if cleaning doesn’t fix the problem.
Storage Issues
Keeping your gun in a safe, dry area is essential when it comes to maintenance. Failing to store your firearm properly could lead to frequent repairs. For instance, if you keep your gun outdoors or carry it with you in public without taking precautions to protect it from weather conditions like rain, it could lead to issues such as moisture damage and rust. As a result, your firearm could have difficulty shooting or storing ammunition, among other challenges. In many instances, it will need to be repaired, but often, replacement is necessary. However, by keeping the gun stored safely away from wet conditions and bad weather, you can reduce the risk of damage.
Barrel Replacement
Unless you plan to keep your gun locked away without ever using it, eventually the barrel is going to get worn down with use and need to be replaced. Handgun barrels generally need to be replaced once worn down, not repaired. Most people don’t put enough rounds through their firearms to need to replace the barrel. However, it’s recommended to check your barrel periodically to make sure it’s in good condition. If you find that the handgun is starting to lose its accuracy, that could also be an indicator it’s time to replace the barrel.
If you own a firearm, it’s essential to make sure you learn how to maintain it properly, and a high-quality gun safety class can teach you how to do that and much more. Gun Safety Training Pros is committed to providing the finest gun safety course online. If you want to learn more about the crucial aspects of safe firearms ownership and gun handling, contact us today at [email protected].