Or ones who use their rifles far more than average man and therefore have their mods fitted to their rifles a lot more than is normal. I think that they know that mods need removing when the rifle is not in use, don't you?
Oh they probably know. But do they do it?
I have a moderator with a series of baffles which unscrew quite easily. The first few years I had it I took it all apart and cleaned it thoroughly regularly after shooting, especially after a string of shots, zeroing etc. I noticed some erosion on the end baffle around the hole (through which the bullet passes) around year two. The cause of this erosion was never confirmed. When I called the dealer and explained he told me I shouldn’t ever take it apart to clean it. The end baffle was replaced and since that day about three years ago I’ve not once taken it apart or cleaned it. No further sign of erosion (possibly no link to the previous cleaning regime anyway). But what I am quite certain of is that the moderator does a better job of reducing the sound of a shot since I stopped cleaning it. The dealer had mentioned this would be the case and although it’s a tricky thing to actually quantify I am sure it’s true. Either that or I’m slowly going deaf!
No doubt things have moved on since the late 90’s. That’s when I first visited Callum Ferguson’s workshop and noted the good number of FCS rifles in for ‘servicing’.
The erosion was clearly visible around the hole without taking the mid apart. It’s absolutely fine now three years since getting the end baffle replaced.
A couple of drops of Loctite 243 might help.
You are not alone ! Please share with us if you manage to get it apart. Mine locked up after 6 shots.
