A soft rifle case is not something you should neglect. Once you buy a rifle case, you must know how it eases down the transportation of your firearm. If you want the case to last for years after years and look new, you must take care of it. Maintaining and cleaning your soft rifle case regularly will save it from possible functionality issues. Proper take care will prolong the lifespan of the case. In return, the rifle case will take care of your firearm. The case will ensure that your rifle is in pristine condition. Apart from that, a rifle case that looks old certainly shows the owner's lack of concern. It plummets the value of the firearms in the eyes of others. This article will investigate the importance of maintaining and cleaning your soft rifle case. It will list out the steps on how to do it perfectly.
Why You Should Maintain and Clean Your Soft Rifle Case
You can start by questioning why you shouldn’t take care of your soft rifle case. You will find no particular reason. However, there are several crucial reasons why you should take good care of your pieces:
Prolonged Durability: When you look for ways to maintain your case and clean it regularly, it will extend the overall lifespan of the case. Judging by the price of a case, you must want to maintain it whenever you get time.
Protection of Firearm: It’s apparent that when your case is well-maintained, it also keeps your rifle from dust, dirt, and moisture. It’s general knowledge that these three elements are the most destructive enemies of any mechanism. So, this is true for a rifle.
Functional Integrity: Zippers, seams, and padding are a case's three most functional parts. Cleaning these parts regularly will ensure fluid movement and smooth performance. They won’t make any unexpected noises or stumble when moving.
Hygiene: Keeping the case without care can cause bacteria and a bad smell. Make sure you use sanitary liquids while cleaning critical parts. This will prevent the case from absorbing unhygienic elements.
Aesthetic Appeal: Rust and dust can spoil metals and wood. They can destroy the appeal of a new and fresh case. A clean rifle case will reflect your taste and sense of aesthetics to your peers.
Steps for Maintaining and Cleaning Your Soft Rifle Case
Every procedure has a few simple steps, following which a person can do the task efficiently. This is true for case maintenance, too. Below are a few key steps you can follow to clean your soft rifle.
Regular Inspections
You should thoroughly inspect your rifle case regularly. But before, you should know what you are looking for. Look for different signs of wear and tear. You need to carefully check for frayed seams, broken zippers, and damaged padding. If you can detect these issues as early as possible, you may repair them. But you can definitely prevent further damage, extending the lifespan of the case.
Cleaning the Exterior
The exterior of a soft rifle case is exposed to dust, dirt, and different other debris. So, over time, these deleterious elements can accumulate in the case. You must clean them once in a while. For cleaning, you should use a damp cloth with a little mild soap to wipe down the surface. Stubborn stains might not go away with such an attempt. However, using a brush to scrub that area will help.
Cleaning the Interior
The interior of the case is important as it keeps the rifle safe. Look for debris and remove them if you find any. Spent shells, dirt, or leaves are the most common ones you can find. While removing the dust and small particles, vacuum the inside. For heavy soiling, you should use a damp cloth with a little mild soap. Afterward, let it air dry completely.
Addressing Odors
If you can smell any odor in your rifle case, just place an open box of baking soda inside the case. Keep it that way for a few days. It will neutralize the smell. You can use fabric fresheners instead of baking soda. Just be sure not to leave any residue.
Zipper Maintenance
Zippers are always critical for any bag or container it comes with. You need to keep them functioning smoothly. The best way to do that is apply a zipper lubricant or graphite powder. Check for any debris lodged in the zipper’s teeth. It will keep it from jams or damage.
Storing Your Rifle Case
When not in use, store your rifle case in a cool, dry place. Avoid high-humidity areas or direct sunlight, which can degrade the fabric and materials over time. To keep it, hang the case using hooks or lay it on flat surfaces. This will prevent any creases or deformities.
Waterproofing
It would be best if you buy a case made with waterproof technologies. But if not, you should apply a fabric protectant spray. It will help keep the water away, acting like a protective layer. Your container and content will both be safe from moisture damage.
Handling With Care
You must handle the case with utmost care. Never drag it on rough surfaces or overload it with unnecessary accessories. Proper handling will keep it from extra stress. The seams and zippers will be in good shape, ensuring further longevity.
Conclusion
Maintaining and cleaning your soft rifle case is simple if you can do it regularly. Again, just because the task is simple doesn’t mean you should ever avoid doing it. Regular inspections, proper cleaning, and careful handling can significantly extend the lifespan of your case. Not only that, repeating these tasks will protect your firearms, too. Proper care will be worth it as it will safeguard your investment by protecting your rifle. A well-maintained rifle case shows your commitment to responsible gun ownership.