On 4 Aug 99,, the dancing digits of Heidi Carroll delivered:

> What can I do better to protect the firearms from oxidizing?

Some basic firearms maintenance can go a long way to help prevent
oxidation.

Approximately once a year (more often in damp climes), the firearms
should be wiped down with a treated cloth.  There are silicon treated
cloths that work quite well.  These can be obtained at most sporting
goods stores or in the sporting goods section of stores like Wal-mart
and K-mart.

Another alternative is to apply a light coat of gun oil to the
firearms.  A cloth should be lightly oiled and rubbed over the metal
parts.  Cotton swabs can be used to get into tight spaces.  After
applying, wipe with a dry cloth or swab to remove the excess.  One
caveat with this method.  Use gun oil (obtained as above).  Gun oil
is monopolar and less reactive than other lubricating oils.  This is
not a good place to use WD-40.

This plus what you are already doing should help preserve those
firearms.

=========================================================
Important Subscriber Information:

The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://museums.state.nm.us/nmmnh/museum-l.html. You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to
[log in to unmask] The body of the message should read "Signoff
Museum-L" (without the quotes).