| |
A notable portion of (magnum Springer) power is developed via "lean burn
ignition". Lower powered Springer’s operate in what Gerald Cardew called
the 'pop-gun' phase. This phase is described as not having any
combustion occurring...the gun operates on the air it compresses when
the piston rushes forward. Guns who develop added power via some light
combustion use very little actual 'fuel' to obtain the necessary
velocity.
Both RWS and Beeman say that only a couple drops of chamber lube be used
for every thousand rounds (or more!) WHEN the piston seal starts
squeaking! Over use of these specially developed lubes has accounted for
many damaged guns...many of them with voided warranties because of the
excessive use of chamber lubes.
These lubes were originally meant for use in guns that had LEATHER
piston seals to help keep the leather pliable and sealing properly. They
really do nothing for guns with synthetic seals except detonate.
This brings me to the term 'diesel' again. There is a difference between
dieseling and detonation, and detonation is dangerous condition. It's
usually seen when highly combustible lubes are used in a gun. The gun
produces a very loud crack when fired and may or may not exhibit smoke
coming from the bore--the amount of smoke depends on how fully the lube
was burned, they type of lube, etc. Detonation can occur even when NO
smoke is visible afterwards.
It can break springs, cause compression chambers to swell, and generally
endanger the shooter or anyone else nearby.
Most springers made now (at least in Europe) come lubed from the
factory. AA, BSA and HW most notably. They no longer require ANY user
necessary lubrication, as they are well greased inside. Because of this,
Beeman is no longer ordering Chamber Lube (and a few other lubes they
were selling) because owners will only abuse these potions and damage
something. They are no longer needed in quality modern airguns.
As others have already pointed out, what (some) are promulgating as a
restorative process (Liberally applying various brands of low flashpoint
lubricants to the interior of the airgun) is actually dangerous and
foolhardy. These added lubes reduce the guns ability to shoot with
consistent accuracy, and it also will have an effect on the guns
longevity (if not the shooters!).
In the interest of safety and keeping your airguns healthy, I strongly
recommend that no-one follow this 'restorative process'...or anything
that remotely resembles it.
Regards, Russ Best (BesTunes)
|
|
