Tried to fix a rusty bore with vinegar and ended up with a rifle that smells like pickles.

The rust is gone, but now every shot comes with a tangy smell.

3 comments

3 Comments

My uncle's old Marlin 336 had that same pickle smell for two seasons after he cleaned the barrel. I used to think it meant he did a bad job, but after reading what kelly_walker92 said about it becoming part of the story, I get it now. That rifle shot fine and the smell just made it his. It's like a weird badge that shows you actually put in the work to save the gun instead of letting it rot.

kelly_walker9215d ago

Remember my grandpa's old tackle box smelled like that for years after he cleaned it with vinegar. I mean, @mila_anderson72 is right about the oiling part, but sometimes that smell just becomes part of the thing's story. Like, his lures were shiny but they always had a faint pickle whiff next to the worm scent. It kind of makes me think of my grandma's cast iron skillet that she would oil after washing. Maybe it's the same idea, sealing it in. Now every time I smell dill pickles I just think of fishing and fried eggs.

mila_anderson7216d agoOG Member

Vinegar is pretty effective for rust removal, but that pickle scent lingers. The acidity breaks down the rust but can get trapped in the metal. Some folks recommend a thorough oiling after to seal the metal and mask the odor. Have you considered using a degreaser before oiling?