so I bought my first riffle a rem 700 30-06 a couple of weeks ago I have put about 30 shots through it so far.

it came with no lube on it at all and I have not put any on

I can feel the bolt catch just a slightly when I go slowly and it has that metal on metal feel. and it has a slight scratch like from a rub on the bolt.

is it best to leave it dry or do you guys ever lube a bolt if so what do you recommend putting on it. Just around the house I have normal gun oil, wd-40, and, grease (shooters choice) I'm guessing that last one is a winner but wanted to ask you guys first.

the only reason I can think of to leave it dry, is that it could get on the ammo

OILOILOIL and then OILOILOIL...if you want it to last OILOILOIL, it will get sticky and it will start to wear metal on metal shortly if not so already.. there's only one way.. oil it and then oil it somemore.......hopefully you cleaned the barrel somewhat during the first thiry shots... if not you don't need to worry about that part anymore.. any metal filings or burrs will already have gouged the land and bearng surfaces...REMEMBER, just a little oil, not a gallon.. I'd reccomend BUTCHes OIL, the red stuff.. works like a charm and never GUMS up in cold weather.. I've had it out at 10 below zero and it was still good to go... OIL MY FRIEND OIL !!!

I'm a fan of BreakFree CLP (Cleaner/Lubricant/Preservative) for lubricating and corrosion prevention. The great thing about it is that it can be used very sparingly, and left to dry. Once cured and dry, it acts as a dry lubricant and also does an outstanding job preventing rust. I put a couple drops on and smear it thinly over all metal surfaces with either my finger or a patch. Then wipe any excess off with another patch or rag, leaving the surface just barely wet. In a couple hours it'll look and feel dry. This is ok, it's still working because it leaves a film behind that has teflon (and probably some other stuff) and keeps working. Doesn't attract and trap dust either. I started using it in the Marine Corps as it's the standard issue solvent, lubricant and rust preventative authorized for the M16A2 service rifle and variants. BreakFree CLP is the same MilSpec stuff in a fancier bottle that you can get at a sporting goods store. Works like a charm.

Mike

I also use CLP religiously. I guess it's engrained into me by being in the USMC so long and that's all we use. I just apply the same about on the bolt as I do the rest of the gun. Nice and smooth bolt for me.

AND don't forget if you live in a humid area or hunt in high moisture/rain, you need to take that bolt apart and clean and lube the firing pin and spring. Keep that from rusting in there.

I've never heard of using grease on the bolt lugs, and never done so. What can happen if one lubes the lugs with standard gun-type oils?

Mike