I just cleaned one of my rifles for the first time in about a year and man it really needed it. I feel bad for forgetting to do it for so long, but I don't ever think about it since it stays in a case out of sight.
My question is should I be worried about any damage to the barrel from waiting so long? I didn't get any rust on the patches and the bore doesn't show any pitting.
from your e mail it seems you dodged the bullet so to speak:
1. never store a gun in a case ie the zip up carrying type.
2. my stored guns recieve a close 6 month inspection then a silicoat cloth wipedown before restoring them.
3. Annually clean all guns the same way you would as if you had fired
them then a complete wipe down with a silicoat cloth.
4. Always clean and reoil a gun the same day it is fired, I learned this in
the militay and and its a fine habit to keep.
BUT TAKE INTO ACCOUNT, the area you live in like a sea coast, or other high humidity areas.
When i lived in such areas I have used RIG, a THIN coat gun grease after 1St.thoroghly cleaning the gun exterior and inside the barrel.
Be sure to clean out the barrel and mechanism before firing.
I began all the suggested prevention and upkeep when I was a teenager and have never had a bit of rust or pitting on any gun I have ever owned
and Im now 78 Years of age.
Good luck & Good shooting