FN TEFLON-BASED LUBE WARNING

[SpeakTrue]

I am posting this for the reference of people reading the Fabrique Nationale warning regarding the use of teflon-based lubricants, such warning being placed by FN at the very least within the manuals for its polymer framed handguns, such as the FN Herstal FNP9/FNP9-M ca, 9 x 19 pistol.

The warning is stated by FN HERSTAL as follows:

"Never use hydrocarbons, trichlorethylene, ammonia nor teflon-based lubricants : they could cause damage to the pistol !" [SIC]

As most know, many, if not all military and civilian cleaners, lubricants and preservatives are teflon-based, contain some form of teflon, or do not disclose their ingredients openly, though a material data sheet should reveal all contents.

This FN warning, then, presents an unresolved issue for FN pistol operators and organizations.

My conversations with a technical information specialist at FN has indicated the following:

The warning seems to have been generated over concern for the possible breakdown of polymers in the frame when exposed to these chemicals or teflon over long periods or in high concentration.

The operator is urged, therefore, to simply not let the gun "soak overnight" and that the solvent or lubricant should be wiped off.

It was also indicated that these warnings are "written by lawyers", leading one to believe they are perhaps overblown; i.e., the gun will probably outlive all of us even if you left it in a vat of CLP every night.

The only other issue which was not raised or addressed by FN was the notion that the warning could apply to excess pressure from oil in the barrel upon firing. I don't believe that this is what the warning applies to. I am sure that even their lawyers would not have missed an opportunity to state this warning seperately and also, that teflon-based oil would not be the only cuprit in this issue.

So, bottom line is: go ahead and maintain usual cleaning procedures and materials, just be sure to wipe the FN free of any loose lubricant.

I hope this is of assistance to someone wondering what on earth this warning is within the manual of their new FN pistol.

[Azzy]

The ammonia warning is understandable, ammonia attacks and leads to cracking in almost all plastics (thats why RV windows fog if you wipe them with windex over time)

[GRoPA]

Funny.....ya don't see those warnings on STEEL pistols.

JUST KIDDING!!!!!

Thanks for passing along the info.

[NineseveN]

Funny.....ya don't see those warnings on STEEL pistols.

JUST KIDDING!!!!!

Thanks for passing along the info.

Actually, I believe a lot has been said about Teflon based (PTFE) lubes heating up to the point of releasing hydrofloric acid...