Old Pellets

[jat]

I have recently been given a significant quantity of 4.5 mm pellets from various well known manufacturers labeled "match". They are very dark due to oxidation; having been stored in non-sealed containers for perhaps 6 years. May I please have your opinions regarding if these may be used in high grade competition compressed air pistols and rifles without causing damage to the barrels? Thanks. JAT

[RobStubbs]

They will cause no harm, lead being somewhat softer than a gun barrel.

Rob.

[jmessina]

The pellet itself is softer than the barrel. However, the oxidation is somewhat abrasive and will do something to the barrel. Just how bad is not known.

[Guest]

Are they fully oxidized, i.e. presence of chalky white crystalline powder, or just discolored? They may be fine for practice ammunition, provided that they are not truly oxidized.

toznerd

[jat]

The pellets are very dark in color and do not have a white or chalky appearance. So I suppose that I should just use them for practice. Thanks for your responses. JAT

[ronpistolero]

Hi,

If there are white powder/crystalization around, then that's pretty much alright. Use them for some serious shooting if you want. Bench test them to assure your mind that they are ok. However, if otherwise, there's a thread here about removing the oxidation via soaking them in coca cola and rinsing them and then spray them with good quality silicone based oil.

Regards,

Ron

[Rover]

So what if they're grungy and IF they're abrasive you'll save yourself the cost of a bore lapping job.

I haven't played with my match pistols, but I've seen air rifles constricted at the breech. This sizes the pellet too small for the bore. Maybe the choke at the muzzle saves it, but then again....

Now you have one more thing to fret about.

[RL]

If possible double check the factory fresh colour from the manufacturer website. Some pellets come in a dark colour.