Long term airgun storage and inactivity question

[Jnine]

Hey folks,

I have a question about storing pcp airguns long term. I'm curious if I store them for a year or two without using them, is that a bad thing or will it damage any o-rings/other parts?

I've been told to use them every few months, but some life plans have gotten in the way and I might not be able to use them for a long period of time. I'll be storing them in a safe with little to no humidity, but was curious if there's any preventative maintenance I should be aware of.

 

[Ranchibi]

If possible, keep them in a cool dry place with air, approximately 200 bar to keep pressure on the o'rings. You can lube the inside of the barrel lightly and any other part that can rust, but use a lube that will not deteriorate the o'rings. Your safe is possibly the best place to store it. Should be fine.

 

[rcarlisle]

I've taken to storing my PCP airguns with the air left in them after shooting (so less than a full fill). I've had a gun sit in a case for 3 years, fully pressurized with no damage. Wipe them down with a silicon impregnated cloth and forgetabouddit until you need to use it again. I would absolutely NOT store them without pressure in the reservoir.

 

[Jnine]

Thanks guys, and good point about storing them with some pressure in them. I usually have at least 150-200 bar in the reserve before I put them away. Appreciate the responses.

 

[MikeVV]

If you need to leave them sit...you need to let them sit !
I'd lower the pressure to about 150 bar. Just above most regulator settings, and as said, store in a, cool, "dry" (Humidifier equipped) storage location. Preferably a safe or other locked location.

Mike