Home >> Collecting >> Gun Collecting

How to Remove Cosmoline From a Mosin

The Mosin Nagant Model 91/30 rifle was produced by the former Soviet Union and other Eastern Bloc countries until the years following the end of World War II. It is a bolt action rifle which fires a 7.62 by .54R round. After the collapse of the former Eastern Bloc countries the Mosin Nagant became available on the Western markets, and is a much sought after collector's item. Most Mosin Nagants are preserved with a rust-preventative named cosmoline. Removal of cosmoline is essential before the weapon is fired to prevent accidents or injuries, and damage to the rifle.

Things You'll Need

2 can of brake cleaner, 12 oz.
Shop rags or old towels
Hair dryer
Wire brush
Well ventilated area
Rubber gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Make sure the weapon is unloaded.
- 2
  Disassemble the weapon by removing the barrel, trigger arrangement and bolt assembly. Disassemble the bolt assembly to remove the firing pin.
- 3
  Lay the barrel, trigger arrangement and bolt assembly parts on towels or shop rags in a well ventilated area.
- 4
  Spray brake cleaner over parts, completely covering them with chemical.
- 5
  Wipe the cosmoline from the parts when it begins to bubble. Use a wire brush to clean the small, hard to reach areas. Wipe the parts clean, and repeat until the cosmoline is fully removed.
- 6
  Set hair dryer to high. Hold the hair dryer 1 to 2 inches from the wooden sections of the rifle. The cosmoline will begin to bubble, or "sweat", rising from the wood. Use a towel to wipe the cosmoline clean. Repeat the process along the entire length of the stock and handguards until the cosmoline no longer bubbles up.
- 7
  Allow the parts to dry and reassemble rifle.

Gun Collecting