I have a 1975 Webley Premier Mk2 .22 air pistol. It has hardly been used since the '70s and I got it out today. It was working well but I thought I would introduce two or three drops of neatsfoot oil into the air transfer port, to lubricate the washer which, I think, had never received any oil since new. I worked it back and forth but it has now seized up and is impossible to cock.

I am not technically or mechanically minded.

Anyone any idea what could have happened? I thought the oil would assist the operation and ease the washer, which I thought might be a little dry. I am baffled.

If I use this oil in the transfer port of my vintage rifles, I am worried there be similar problems.

Andrew.