Rifle Scopes Rusting Rings

[InTheWeeds]

I just dismounted my scope from one rifle to move to an other and noticed some corrosion on the scope and inside of the rings. The rust on the scope wiped right of and a light buff with a scotch brite pas took it off the rings. Im guessing its from when I lapped my rings, it took the coating off. My question is, will adding a corrosion inhibitor like WD40 or 3-n-1 oil harm anything? Whats the best way to prevent this? I bought some Leupold Mk 4 rings for my new rifle and I would hate for the same thing to happen to a $150 set of rings..

 

[cdmurphy]

Re: Rusting Rings

What are your rings made of? Aluminum alloy, steel, or stainless? As far as a corrosion inhibitor, stay away from WD-40. It's a great solvent, but that's about it. I would use something like Boeshield or LPS-3 rust inhibitor. Both dry to leave a waxy, clinging film that does a great job keeping things rust free. The other possibility is galvanic corrosion, which would only be a problem if the scope and rings are of dissimilar metals, and there is electrical conductivity between the two. Intact paint or anodizing on either surface should prevent this.

- Cameron

 

[InTheWeeds]

Re: Rusting Rings

Well I thought my Luepold QRC rings were aluminum, but the rust was iron oxide rust (brown) so I guess they are steel. Im almost sure my new Mk4 rings are cold rolled steel, so if I lap them too, the anodizing will come off and corrode as well.

 

[19Scout77]

Re: Rusting Rings

I somehow doubt your steel rings will be anodized.

 

[Impact]

Re: Rusting Rings

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 19Scout77</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I somehow doubt your steel rings will be anodized. </div></div>

indeed.

I had good luck with CLP for corrosion protection.