Quick ? About optimal temperature to store guns...

A

Atlshaun

Inactive
I have my guns in a climate controlled storage unit. Actually, its the section where most people are storing wine. I chose this section because of the added security.

The temperature is kept at 58 degrees at all times. Will this cause any issues? Is that too cold for a constant temp?
 
I don't think temperature matters much either way, it's humidity that you need to worry about.
 
The cool temperature isn't a problem unless 58° is less than dew point. Then you'll have condensation.

Doors without weatherstripping mean lots of air exchange, and that means a constant source of moisture.

I believe folks who store wine don't want the labels dissolving away into unreadable mush, so if your storage area has similar provisions for limiting air exchange, you are probably OK.

If possible, I would check during the summer, when condensation is more of a problem, and see if there is moisture on the barrels. If they are dry during humid, hot air conditions, they will probably be OK in winter.
 
SFAIK, most controlled-temperature storage systems are relatively low-humidity. I suggest asking the operator about that. Temperature is pretty much irrelevant.
 
Seems like it should be fine. I checked the storage locker/unit for moisture and there wasn't any present.

Thanks for the help.

Very cheap storage alternative if anyone was curious.
 
SFAIK, most controlled-temperature storage systems are relatively low-humidity. I suggest asking the operator about that.
Click to expand...

Yes, definitely check...Most wine storage also has higher humidity, to keep corks from drying out!
 
Ok. I checked with the storage company.

The temp is 58 degrees 24/7/365 and the humidity is set at 55% 24/7/365.

Thoughts?
 
If it isn't causing condensation on other surfaces in the unit, it shouldn't cause any on your rifles. Different materials react differently to temp and humidity, though, so if you are not sure, put some other steel objects in there and let them sit for a day, then check them for condensation. If they are dry, no problems. I personally don't think 55% humidity should be an issue.
 
Optimum humidity is usually considered right around 50%. I don't think 55% would be a problem. The average humidity of the Sahara Desert is 25% if that helps any.
 
Extremely low humidity can cause wood to shrink and crack, although this may not be as much a problem with gunstocks as it is with musical instruments. Lots of people keep a small damp sponge inside their guitar cases to keep the wood happy, especially during the winter months when heated indoor air becomes Sahara Dessert dry.

As far as metal rusting, as long as there is no condensation it should be fine.
 
Apply a light coat of oil before storing the weapons, DON'T use gun socks or leave pistols in leather holsters (they'll trap moisture next to the metal), and you should be fine.
 
Temperature should not be the main concern, humidity should. If it is 55% thats fine, but if your storing guns for a long time without using, I would clean them with some remoil, toss them all in the safe and toss some desiccators in there. If theyre not in the safe try to find plastic storage sleaves.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top