Keeping Co2 airguns working.

[laverdabru]

Really don't know the answer. But would welcome any thorts...
I've got 3 CO2 pistols. Only used in Summer. Always leave the capsules in, stored in a dry room. Never used Pellgun oil, or ATF. As the latter is used in the harsh environment of auto gearboxes, never fancied using in my CO2 guns with (presumably) rubber/composite seals.
Like I said, don't know the answer - but would like to know the best way to keep them running for as long as my old Wobbleys!

ATB

Bru

[peddy]

Really don't know the answer. But would welcome any thorts...
I've got 3 CO2 pistols. Only used in Summer. Always leave the capsules in, stored in a dry room. Never used Pellgun oil, or ATF. As the latter is used in the harsh environment of auto gearboxes, never fancied using in my CO2 guns with (presumably) rubber/composite seals.
Like I said, don't know the answer - but would like to know the best way to keep them running for as long as my old Wobbleys!

ATB

Bru

If you read my post Bru.... with regards to pistols NEVER leave them with capsules stored. The co2 will damage the valve seal, in addition capsules have different shaped ends so leaving them with one maker will leave an indent in the valve seal so when you use a different brand the gun will piss gas out when you try to seal. Always store with a smear of pelgun oil on the seal to preserve the valve seal. Rifles are different as they seal via a cylinder end cap so leaving it gassed will keep pressure on the exhaust valve preventing any dirt contacting the seal.

[wobbly bob]

If you read my post Bru.... with regards to pistols NEVER leave them with capsules stored. The co2 will damage the valve seal, in addition capsules have different shaped ends so leaving them with one maker will leave an indent in the valve seal so when you use a different brand the gun will piss gas out when you try to seal. Always store with a smear of pelgun oil on the seal to preserve the valve seal. Rifles are different as they seal via a cylinder end cap so leaving it gassed will keep pressure on the exhaust valve preventing any dirt contacting the seal.

I'm sorry, but how could CO2 damage a valve seal? Carbon dioxide is an inert gas is it not?

[Lawrie Amatruda]

I'm sorry, but how could CO2 damage a valve seal? Carbon dioxide is an inert gas is it not?

With all due respect, if you research how most commonly used O rings react to Co2 you will be surprised at what damage it does to them, I can speak from experience of many years resealing Co2 air guns.

Regards, Lawrie

[wobbly bob]

With all due respect, if you research how most commonly used O rings react to Co2 you will be surprised at what damage it does to them, I can speak from experience of many years resealing Co2 air guns.

Regards, Lawrie

I have had seals become porous and absorb CO2 in internal blister-like deformations from which it would eventually be released. But I was taught at school that carbon dioxide was an inert gas, so I assumed that was due to a deterioration of the seal material that would have happened with any compressed gas

Having gone away and done a little research, I stand humbly corrected

Thank you, Master Lawrie

[Walnut92]

My experience: Umarex Beretta 92FS, 8 years old.

Used mainly in winter season, so can sit for several months unused.

Never left bulbs in it.

First 7 years I used Umarex bulbs. Never missed a beat. Always a drop of Pellgun on the tip of each bulb.

Easily shoots 2 mag's worth into 1/2' - 3/4" group at 6 metres, unrested. To mix units...

Last season I changed to Crosman bulbs - which appear to have some oil in them. NOT the Walther 'maintenance' bulbs which are for occasional use.

Got gun out a month or so back, bulb in, not working. Opened underlever and CO2 escaped, so bulb WAS pierced. Tried with several bulbs - both Crosman and Umarex. Maybe one bulb in 5 might work, but missed shots occurred.

Valve clearly sticking.

Flushed it, around 300 shots through it, and gun is now 100% reliable again with Umarex bulbs.

So, for me, Crosman bulbs will now be relegated to occasional (maybe 1 in 10) usage...

[gingernut]

Umarexs don't like or need Pellgun oil

There Ive said it.

[laverdabru]

If you read my post Bru.... with regards to pistols NEVER leave them with capsules stored. The co2 will damage the valve seal, in addition capsules have different shaped ends so leaving them with one maker will leave an indent in the valve seal so when you use a different brand the gun will piss gas out when you try to seal. Always store with a smear of pelgun oil on the seal to preserve the valve seal. Rifles are different as they seal via a cylinder end cap so leaving it gassed will keep pressure on the exhaust valve preventing any dirt contacting the seal.

Thanks for that - I will change my ways! A good point re brands having different indents. Hadn't thought of that.

All the best

Bru