After all, how long can a CO2 cylinder stay in the gun?
Whether you are an experienced shooter or a curious novice, you have surely wondered: how long can a CO2 cylinder stay in the gun without causing problems? This is a common question, and the answer couldn’t be simpler: You should not leave the CO2 cylinder in the gun for extended periods, especially if you don’t intend to use the gun for days or weeks. In this article, we will explore CO2 cartridges and understand why you shouldn’t leave them in the gun after each use.
How do CO2 cartridges work?
CO2 pistols have seals, usually made of rubber or synthetic materials, which are vulnerable to the constant pressure of the gas. Over time, these seals wear out and compromise the efficiency of the pistol.
Therefore, the best practice is to remove the CO2 cylinder after each use, even if the cartridge still has gas.
But what happens when the CO2 cartridge stays in the gun?
Once the CO2 cartridge is punctured, the gas begins to leak slowly, even if you are not using the gun. This means that, even if the cartridge is partially full, the gas will gradually escape over time until it’s empty. This is why it is not recommended to leave the CO2 in the gun for long periods, especially if you plan to store it for weeks, as it can cause significant damage to the gun.
One of the most obvious signs that the CO2 is running out is a decrease in power and shot velocity. If you notice that the shots are losing strength, it’s likely that the cartridge is depleting.