Introduction
The question of whether gun oil is suitable for fishing reels is a common one among anglers. While both gun oil and fishing reel oil aim to reduce friction and protect metal parts, there are crucial differences that determine their suitability. Using the wrong lubricant can damage your valuable fishing reel, leading to costly repairs or even rendering it unusable. This article will explore the properties of gun oil and fishing reel oil, highlighting why using gun oil on your fishing reel is generally not recommended, and suggesting better alternatives. We'll cover the key differences, potential damage, and the best practices for maintaining your fishing reel's smooth operation.
Understanding Gun Oil and its Properties
Gun oil is designed for firearms, prioritizing corrosion prevention and long-term protection in harsh environments. It often contains additives that prevent rust and oxidation, essential for firearms exposed to the elements. However, these same additives can be detrimental to fishing reels.
Key Properties of Gun Oil:
- High Viscosity: Gun oil is typically thicker than fishing reel oil, leading to sluggish movement of internal components. This can hinder the smooth operation of your reel, affecting casting distance and overall performance.
- Additives: The rust-inhibiting and other additives in gun oil can attract and retain dirt and grime, accumulating within the delicate internal mechanisms of the reel. This buildup can lead to friction, wear, and eventual breakdown.
- Not Designed for Fine Mechanisms: Gun oil isn't formulated for the precision and intricate parts of a fishing reel. The thicker consistency and potential for additive buildup can impede the smooth operation of the delicate gears, bearings, and other moving parts.
Why Gun Oil is NOT Suitable for Fishing Reels
Using gun oil on a fishing reel can lead to several issues:
- Increased Friction: The thick viscosity of gun oil creates drag, reducing the smoothness of the reel's operation and potentially impacting casting performance.
- Attraction of Debris: The additives in gun oil can act as a magnet for dirt and dust, leading to increased wear and tear on the reel's internal components.
- Damage to Components: The oil can gum up the delicate internal components of the reel, causing them to malfunction or break down prematurely.
- Corrosion Problems (Counterintuitively): While gun oil protects against rust, the buildup of contaminants attracted by the additives can actually promote corrosion in damp environments.
Case Study: A Damaged Reel
An angler friend of mine, using gun oil on his high-end spinning reel, experienced a noticeable decrease in performance. He initially reported a rough feel during casting and increased resistance when retrieving line. Upon inspection, we discovered a significant buildup of grime and oil within the reel's mechanism, requiring a complete professional cleaning and servicing. This ultimately cost him a considerable amount of money, highlighting the potential downsides of using inappropriate lubricants.
The Best Lubricants for Fishing Reels
For optimum performance and longevity, specialized fishing reel oil and fishing reel grease are recommended.
Fishing Reel Oil: Specifically formulated for the delicate internal workings of fishing reels, it offers the perfect balance of lubrication and protection without the drawbacks of gun oil. It's designed for smooth operation and does not attract contaminants in the same way.
Fishing Reel Grease: Used for areas requiring heavier lubrication and protection against wear, such as gear teeth, grease creates a thicker protective barrier than oil, preventing friction and wear over time. It is critical to use this only in the appropriate locations.
Brands and Types: Several reputable brands offer high-quality reel oils and greases, including but not limited to: Cal's, Shimano, Penn, and Berkley. Always consult your reel's manufacturer's recommendations for the appropriate lubricant type and application.
Proper Reel Maintenance: Cleaning and Lubrication
Regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your fishing reel. This includes:
- Cleaning: Regularly rinse your reel with fresh water after each use to remove salt, dirt, and sand. Use a soft brush and clean cloth for stubborn residue.
- Disassembly: For a thorough cleaning and lubrication, consider disassembling your reel (refer to your reel's manual). This allows you to access and clean all internal components more effectively.
- Lubrication: Apply fishing reel oil to moving parts like bearings and shafts. Use fishing reel grease sparingly on parts that require heavier lubrication.
- Reassembly: Carefully reassemble the reel, ensuring all parts are properly seated and secured.
Conclusion
While the intention might be to save money or to simply use what’s readily available, using gun oil on fishing reels is ill-advised. The properties of gun oil, particularly its high viscosity and additives, can lead to damage and decreased performance. Using a specialized fishing reel oil and grease will ensure smooth, efficient operation, and extend the life of your valued fishing reel. Remember to consult your reel's manual and consider professional servicing for more complex maintenance tasks. Invest in the right lubricants, and maintain your reel properly, and you'll enjoy many years of reliable performance.