Firearm Maintenance Myths That Cost You Money

Firearm Maintenance Myths That Cost You Money (And How to Stop Making Them

If the internet were right about firearm maintenance, every gun would run flawlessly forever with nothing more than motor oil and positive vibes.

Spoiler alert: that’s not how this works.

Let’s clear up some of the most common firearm maintenance myths — the ones that quietly drain your wallet, ruin parts, and leave you wondering why things suddenly stopped working.

Myth #1: “More Oil Is Always Better”

Nope. More oil usually means:

• Gunk buildup
• Dirt magnet behavior
• Sluggish performance

Firearms need proper lubrication, not a full-on oil bath. Over-oiling attracts debris and can cause more wear, not less. A light, intentional application beats drowning your parts every time.

Myth #2: “If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Clean It”

Sure… until it is broke.
Carbon, residue, and grime don’t send a warning email before causing issues. Regular cleaning prevents small problems from becoming expensive replacements.

Translation: basic maintenance now is cheaper than parts later.

Myth #3: “All Cleaning Tools Are Basically the Same”

They are not. Cheap brushes shed, bargain punches bend, and flimsy screwdrivers strip screws like it’s their job. Using the wrong tools can damage components faster than neglect.

Good tools last longer, work better, and don’t make you say words your kids shouldn’t hear.

Myth #4: “I’ll Just Replace It When It Wears Out”

That mindset adds up fast. Springs, pins, and small components wear gradually — and ignoring them often causes bigger failures down the line.

Preventive maintenance costs less than reactive repairs. Every time.

The Smarter Way

• Clean regularly (not obsessively)
• Use quality oils and tools
• Replace small parts before they fail
• Don’t trust advice that starts with “I’ve always done it this way”

Your firearm — and your bank account — will thank you.