Protecting Your Firearm from Brass Ejections: Dents, Scratches, and the Best Solutions

Brass is a softer metal that can cause dents and scratches on firearms, particularly on the receiver. This phenomenon is often seen in the context of firearms, where materials like steel or alloy are used for the receiver. If your firearm's receiver is taking damage from spent brass, it is a sign that something is Wrong. This article explores the best methods to protect your firearm from such damage.

Understanding the Issue

Metallurgy for dummies can help explain that brass is significantly softer than the material used to manufacture receivers, which are typically made of steel or aluminum alloy. The softer nature of brass means that it can easily scratch or dent the harder surfaces of the firearm. Regular use wears down the finish, but if your firearm is showing signs of excessive wear and tear from spent brass, it's a cause for concern.

The Risk of Damage

If your firearm's receiver is receiving dents from ejected brass, there is a problem that needs to be addressed. A properly designed and functioning firearm should not suffer from such damage. Some gun owners might use duct tape or other methods to prevent damage, but this is often not sufficient and can even lead to malfunctions due to blocked ports.

Why Dents and Scratches Occur

Commercially produced firearms are designed to withstand the forces of fired ammunition. A brass ejection is not the same as a dent or scratch and can be easily removed with the use of gun solvents and some elbow grease. The design of firearms includes features like ejection port buffers and shell deflector designs to manage the ejection process, but these can still accumulate scratches over time.

Handling and Maintaining Your Firearm

It's important to use your firearm for its intended purpose. Even if you carry your firearm, it will naturally accumulate wear and tear. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help preserve the finish, but using the firearm will inevitably put it through some degree of wear. If your firearm is showing dents and scratches, it means that either the design is faulty or the firearm needs to be professionally inspected and possibly reconditioned.

Protective Measures and Solutions

For handguns with small ejection ports, gunsmiths have developed methods to safely open the port without damaging the firearm. Additionally, applying a thin film of carbon buildup preventative (CLP) can help remove residue and trace gunpowder, which can accumulate around the ejection port.

If you are referring to an AR-15, there are solutions specific to this type of firearm. HavocTactical produces plastic bumpers that fit on ARs, which can effectively protect the deflector from scratches and other damage. For AR-15 type uppers, the use of ejection port buffers can prevent damage to the brass, allowing it to be reloaded if necessary.

Conclusion

Your firearm is a valuable investment, and its proper care involves regular use and maintenance. If your firearm is showing signs of damage from spent brass, it is important to address the issue. Use appropriate protective methods and maintain your firearm as recommended by the manufacturer. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your firearm remains in top condition.