clearance man, it could very well be that your rifle did not come in contact with enough airborne moisture for it to rust. When I lived in New Mexico, I had little problems with rust!! I suggest you read Mike Venturino's write-up of 777 in cartridge arms in the new Shooting Times. Basically, he found that 777 was JUST EXACTLY THE SAME as black when it comes to cleaning. I thought it was a little easier to get out 777 fouling than black powder fouling. (Venturino is one writer who usually knows what he is talking about RE: BP cartridge guns.)

Keep yore powder dry!!