- 1. Wet entering between the barrel and the fore-end.
- 2. Unequal dryness such as caused by rifle lying in hot sun or in front of fire.
- 3. Dry woodwork.
- 4. Twisting of wood through insufficient seasoning before use.
PREVENTION OF:
Oil all woodwork daily, ensuring that the oil penetrates between the hand-guard, fore-end and barrel.
CURE OF:
Armourer refits fore-end.
Some Unavoidable Causes:
NICKELLING OR METALLIC FOULING:
Is really an obstruction in the bore caused by a portion of the envelope of the bullet becoming brazed on the surface of the bore. It is a cause of great inaccuracy, and its presence should always be looked for. When found, it must be removed. This should be done by an Armourer.
EROSION:
Is the gradual increase in the size of the bore, and is caused through the heat generated by the gases slightly fusing the metal. The gases rushing over the metal carry away minute particles of the steel. This is the factor which decides “The Life of the Barrel” for purposes of real accuracy.