Breaking in a new airgun

[brihacharan]

Hi Tirths,
Just came across the following when I was browsing the net. Very interesting - want to share it with my fellow IFGians.

Many air gun shooters think that because they have shot 200 or so pellets through a new air rifle that it's now broken in. Nothing could be further from the truth. Ten times that number of pellets would be more like it. Normal break-in of a modern spring-piston air gun takes about 2500 pellets.
The break-in period serves to do two important things. First, the trigger mechanism starts to hone itself and smooth out. That initial wear is good for a trigger. The parts start to mate together, small imperfections on the sear and trigger face begin to fade and the entire trigger pull experience can be greatly improved. Focus on all aspects of the air gun trigger. Where does it let off? Is it longer in the first stage or the second stage? Does it break cleanly or does it creep? As you begin to recognize the individual aspects of the trigger on your new air-gun, you will also learn to recognize how it changes during the break-in period.
Second, the cylinder, spring and piston parts really smooth out and begin to mate together. The entire firing sequence begins to smooth out and vibration is greatly reduced. Learn to recognize the vibration that can be felt in your face as it rests on the stock when firing - it is important. Vibration is evident in all new spring piston air guns manufactured. As the power plant parts begin to mate, vibration begins to lessen. This is a good indication that your new air-gun is starting to "break-in." Also, the air gun will become noticeably easier to cock. This is because the mainspring is no longer dragging against the wall of the piston air chamber. All of this break-in period must be accompanied by proper cleaning and lubrication. Pay attention to any unusual sounds coming from your air-gun like squeaks or high pitched squeals. These sounds usually mean that a good cleaning and re-lubrication are in order. However it’s vital to avoid over lubricating today's modern spring piston air guns. Use only one or two drops of lubricant. For most people, over lubrication is far more of a danger than under lubrication.

Cheers
Brihacharan

[tirths]

I agree. When I fired brand new R1, I found the gun was a faulty one. But over the period, the gun started behaving decently. The trigger become smooth and predictable. the vibration reduced to a great extent..etc.