What to do with old guns coming out of storage

[sschrick]

So, my father-in-law pulled out 4 pistols he has had in his closet for the past 20 or so years. All were stored in leather holsters and apparently were cleaned and lubed before putting up.

They are bone dry now, but still can be racked and load a round without problem. Triggers operate just fine.

I would like to take them to the range to see how they perform, but not sure what I should do to them first. All the internals look good, barrels are clean and nice. Some minor exterior surface corrosion, but no big deal to me. No serious rust spots on any critical areas.

They are a S&W 38 revolver with a 5" barrel (not sure the actual model). Father in law says he took this one with him to Vietnam and brought it home.

Colt 1911 A1 (.45). Govt issue for his time in Vietnam.

Star Lancer .22 small little plinker. HK series.

1940 WWII German Luger--don't plan on shooting this one.

How should I proceed? (Normally, I clean my pistols with Hoppes #9 and apply some light oil).

[Garufa]

Oil the pistols and go shoot them, including the Luger, just be careful with that one...it's very valuable, as is the 1911 and maybe the Smith, depending on what it is.

When done clean them and oil them again. After that NEVER STORE GUNS IN A HOLSTER!

[Guest pfries]

^^^ This^^^ you are on the right track

[Mike.357]

yep do what Garufa said, especially the shooting them part.

All I can add is to post some pictures, we love picture!

[TNWNGR]

As already said clean and oil, then repeat the process before putting them back. I will say that they are well worth the minor investment of having a competent gunsmith or hobbyist fully disassemble them for an inspection and cleaning.