[1339]. How to apply oil. Do not pour or squirt oil on the rifle.
Put a few drops on a piece of clean cloth, preferably cotton, and rub with the cloth, thereby avoiding the use of an unnecessary amount.
Cams and bearings can be oiled this way. However, if the oiler is used instead because of greater ease in reaching them, oil them lightly. To soak with oil accomplishes no more than to cover with a light coating—it merely results in excessive, undesirable smearing and a waste of oil.
Remember
[1340]. 1. It is easier to prevent than to remove rust.
2. To remove rust, apply oil with a rag, and let it stand for a while so as to soften the rust; then wipe with a dry rag.
3. Emery paper or a burnisher must never be used in removing rust, for it also removes the bluing.
However, an ordinary rubber eraser will be found very serviceable for removing rust.
4. To prevent rust and dirt in the bore, run a rag through at least once each day.
5. Never, under any circumstances, put away a rifle that has been fired or exposed to bad weather, without first cleaning it.