If you have a collection of guns that you want to place in a storage unit, there are some important steps you need to take to ensure that they are being stored properly. If not, you will find that the gun deteriorates and you are left with a damaged and invaluable piece.

One thing to keep in mind is that most storage units do not allow you to keep live ammunition inside of the unit, so all of your guns must be unloaded and the ammunition kept separate.

Below, we will go over some tips to help ensure that you properly store your guns.

1. Clean the Guns

One of the first steps you must make before storing your guns is to clean them. You should take the gun apart and clean each component to remove any residue or leftover gunpowder.

You should also add some oil all over the gun’s surfaces to prevent damage. Make sure not to use too much oil, a thin layer will suffice.

2. Choose a Climate-Controlled Unit

When placing your gun in storage, you should opt-in for a climate-controlled unit. This will help ensure that the humidity level is under control. Too much humidity can cause your guns to rust.

In addition, not enough moisture in the unit can cause the casing on the guns to crack. It is ideal to have a unit that stays around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and does not drop below or rise above 50 percent humidity.

3. Keep the Guns Out of Cases

Keeping a gun inside of a case can lead to trouble later on down the road. Most padded cases are designed for transportation only. The foam inside of these padded cases absorbs moisture that may be present in the air. The foam is generally in contact with the gun so prolonged exposure can lead to damage.

4. ALWAYS Secure Your Guns

When placing your guns in a storage unit, make sure that you are engaging the safety lock and placing a trigger lock on the gun too.

If you can, it is wise to place the guns inside of a gun safe, which requires a lock or combination to open it.

If you plan to store your guns, use the tips above to help you properly prepare them before placing then in your unit. If you do not want your guns to become damaged, make sure that you place them in the right environment and clean them thoroughly.