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Graphite for Plastic and Metal Magazines, AR-10 and 15
11/24/2011 12:41:46 PM
Are there different graphite's and if so is there a specific one I should be using for Magpul and metal magazines. A number of my Magpul magazines have anti-tilt followers that stick a little bit and I am considering using graphite. This problem really does not exist in my metal magazines but it does in my plastic ones.
First question: Can or will the graphite start working its way into the chamber and bolt carrier group creating problems under weekly use?
Second: Is there a specific graphite I should be using for my AR-10 and AR-15 or are they all the same?
Third: Is it healthy for the magazines and ammunition contained to be sitting with graphite for indefinite periods of time.
Thank you
First question: Can or will the graphite start working its way into the chamber and bolt carrier group creating problems under weekly use?
Second: Is there a specific graphite I should be using for my AR-10 and AR-15 or are they all the same?
Third: Is it healthy for the magazines and ammunition contained to be sitting with graphite for indefinite periods of time.
Thank you
11/24/2011 4:44:58 PM
Most of the over the counter graphite is decent. The particle sizes only matter in specialized applications and we are not in that territory with your question.
The trick to graphite is to remember that it works best in saturated air. If you cover it with anything that will dry it out, it becomes an abrasive. Don't mix it with any oil or grease.
In small amounts, the transfer into the chamber should be negligible and harmless.
Any brand of graphite sold as lubricant will work for your context. The major differences between brands is the particle size and purity. I wouldn't worry about it, get some bulk and try it.
A small amount will go a long way, so don't get a gallon jug the first time out.
You can find decent bulk graphite at the hardware stores or find it online.
Don't worry too much about how magazines "feel" with your hands unless they are really getting stuck. The dynamics of how magazines feed in a recoil environment are not the same as what you feel with your hands.
If your magazines are really bad, lubricant isn't likely to help them much. The slight difference in friction coefficient should never become the difference between working and not working.
The trick to graphite is to remember that it works best in saturated air. If you cover it with anything that will dry it out, it becomes an abrasive. Don't mix it with any oil or grease.
In small amounts, the transfer into the chamber should be negligible and harmless.
Any brand of graphite sold as lubricant will work for your context. The major differences between brands is the particle size and purity. I wouldn't worry about it, get some bulk and try it.
A small amount will go a long way, so don't get a gallon jug the first time out.
You can find decent bulk graphite at the hardware stores or find it online.
Don't worry too much about how magazines "feel" with your hands unless they are really getting stuck. The dynamics of how magazines feed in a recoil environment are not the same as what you feel with your hands.
If your magazines are really bad, lubricant isn't likely to help them much. The slight difference in friction coefficient should never become the difference between working and not working.
11/24/2011 5:29:28 PM
I use a shot of Remington Dry Lube in my mags.
11/24/2011 8:12:58 PM
Originally Posted By TriggerMaster101:
Are there different graphite's and if so is there a specific one I should be using for Magpul and metal magazines. A number of my Magpul magazines have anti-tilt followers that stick a little bit and I am considering using graphite. This problem really does not exist in my metal magazines but it does in my plastic ones.
First question: Can or will the graphite start working its way into the chamber and bolt carrier group creating problems under weekly use?
Second: Is there a specific graphite I should be using for my AR-10 and AR-15 or are they all the same?
Third: Is it healthy for the magazines and ammunition contained to be sitting with graphite for indefinite periods of time.
Thank you
Are there different graphite's and if so is there a specific one I should be using for Magpul and metal magazines. A number of my Magpul magazines have anti-tilt followers that stick a little bit and I am considering using graphite. This problem really does not exist in my metal magazines but it does in my plastic ones.
First question: Can or will the graphite start working its way into the chamber and bolt carrier group creating problems under weekly use?
Second: Is there a specific graphite I should be using for my AR-10 and AR-15 or are they all the same?
Third: Is it healthy for the magazines and ammunition contained to be sitting with graphite for indefinite periods of time.
Thank you
You do NOT want to use graphite in G.I. aluminum magazines. It is HIGHLY corrosive to aluminum!
11/25/2011 12:01:37 AM
They say you learn something new every day and today I learned about five things,WOW. Thanks for your knowledge and input. I was just telling my sister the other day when having a roof done to make sure that the roofers don't let any aluminum touch copper because of the corrosion process that will take effect. But I never thought about graphite on metal magazines 
I haven't done it yet and I'm glad I didn't 
Thanks again
I haven't done it yet and I'm glad I didn't
Thanks again
