Running a DI dry?

[tb1911]

When reading about DI reliability, I always see things like "keep it wet and it is fine."

When I had a DI gun, I really didn't pay attention. I shot it, threw it in the safe until I shot it again and never had a problem. I will admit I didn't put thousands of rounds at a time through it, but still...

So, my question is: What happens if you don't keep it wet? Will it be fine or can one expect it to not be reliable? Suppose you don't happen to have access to lube? Can anyone report on shooting dry for high round counts and not having problems?

Just curious.

[Yojimbo]

The action will slow down as the gun gets dirty and it will eventually malfunction. I know this from first hand experience.;)

On a properly built gun it may take 300-500 rounds before it stops operating.

[jhs1969]

...and as with any other mechanical device, you would probably experience increased wear as well.