Quick Answer
Before the hunting season, inspect your .357 Magnum lever gun for wear and tear, clean and lubricate the action, and ensure proper ammunition compatibility. Next, zero in your scope and check the rifle's accuracy. Finally, perform a dry-fire test to ensure a smooth trigger pull.
Pre-Season Inspection and Maintenance
Inspect your .357 Magnum lever gun for signs of wear and tear, paying close attention to the action, trigger, and stock. Check for any cracks or damage to the rifle’s frame, stocks, and scope mounts. Clean and lubricate the action, paying particular attention to the pivot pins, locking mechanism, and trigger components. Use a soft brush to remove any debris or corrosion from the rifle’s interior.
Zeroing in the Scope
Zero in your scope by firing a series of shots at a target, adjusting the scope’s elevation and windage dials as needed. Use a target at a distance of at least 50 yards to ensure accurate zeroing. For a .357 Magnum lever gun, a good starting point for zeroing in is at 25 yards, then gradually increasing the distance to 50 yards and beyond. Make adjustments in increments of 1/4 MOA or less.
Dry-Fire Test and Final Check
Perform a dry-fire test by cycling the action without ammunition to ensure a smooth trigger pull and proper locking mechanism function. This will also help to identify any issues with the rifle’s trigger, sear, or hammer. After the dry-fire test, inspect the rifle’s bore and chamber for any signs of wear or damage. Finally, check the rifle’s ammunition compatibility to ensure it is properly chambered and safe to use.
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