I don't live right near the coast but what do you guys think about humidity in HI?

The LGS all seem to just put their guns in the displays for years, unless they are oiling the barrels, etc. monthly?

The LGS are air conditioned, so that controls the humidity.  It would also depend on the finish of each gun.  Finishes like case hardened steel would need a LOT more care than a stainless revolver. 

I also put a thing of DampRid in my gun safe to help control the humidity in there.  I've had some rust show up on a Rem 700, but other than that, no rust on any of my guns, but I also don't really have anything that doesn't come some sort of coating or treatment on the steel parts (Glock's tennifer, HK's corrosive environment finish, ARs, etc).  I'll check the Rem 700 that showed some rust on the barrel and the rings and bases every now and then and wipe with some Ballistol, but that's about it. 

thanks - so how often to check? monthly? every half year?

thanks - so how often to check? monthly? every half year?

When I think about it.  I would hope that I shoot the Rem 700 about once every three months or so, but sadly, that hasn't been the case. 

The other guns, I don't even worry.  Just the Rem 700 that had showed signs of rust. 

That said, I would think every couple of months would be good.  That is assuming no one handles the guns during that time. 

I've stored guns for years in a safe with a just a generous coat of LPS 3, a gun sock and a pound of silica gel with good results

There are also bags made specifically for storing guns and keeping them corrosion free without using something like cosmoline... Just saw them in cheaper than dirt catalog. I am pretty paranoid about my stuff rusting and I keep everything coated with clp and make sure i don't leave any fingerprints.

I use silicon gun socks, silica box from Sec.
depending on the gun I have used howards and wax.  But on that not there are alot of options on feed and wax to preserve guns.  Many guys who keep older wood and steel firearms use it to make a thin layer barrier on thier guns like cosmo but much easier to clean.  But other old school gun guys would not recommend putting any petroleum based coating on wood nor metal. 

If you are near the coast and the wind blows onshore there, be very aware of all the salt carried on the wind.  Combine that with humidity and you have instant rust.  I was appalled how fast tools rusted here when living in Kalama valley with a constant bath of wind with salt coming over.  Lube thoroughly and keep them covered up with a dessicant.

The golden rod dehumidifiers do not do a heck of a lot here, as they are designed to eliminate the temperature swings on the mainland that cause condensation.  Dessicants to rid the air of moisture are the trick.  Along with a barrier of some sort of oil to keep salt, moisture, and finger acids away from metal.

I used to use the boxes of silica and bake them when saturated with water.  Now I have a dessicant with built in heater that you just plug in to get it back to dry when full.  A lot less  hassle in the safe.

thanks; yes i bought silica boxes that you can "recharge" in the oven to keep things dry (not just guns)

i think i had better CLP some of my stuff soon, been quite a while since I last looked at them

let my guns sit in a safe for one year no problem

but my new 700 has surface rust on the boltknob in a few weeks

picked up silica gel cat litter at petsmart for like $14 for 10lbs they have multiple brands and sizes