Rust on the Excal

[sumner4991]

Yes, actually it will, but the aluminum on Excal's aluminum's parts are anodized I believe, and that should prevent any reactions. Also, zinc-coated steel screws would work fine too.

If the holes are drilled and tapped after anodizing then there may still be an issue with the two metals reacting. Also I believe that stainless steel screws have less tensile strength (weaker) which could lead to the screw possibly stretching if used in high stress areas like the limb bolts and possibly riser bolts. Something to check out before making the switch to stainless.

Dang . . .wish I had known that. I just replaced the stock screws with stainless when I put on the wood stock. I saved the old screws, I can switch back. What type of reaction will I get?

[j.krug]

It's called galvanic reaction. The aluminum slowly corrodes away.
Using Anti seize on the threads will create a bit of a barrier and help, but may not totally prevent it.
The situation can be worse if water, especially salt water, is added to the mix.

[See4miles]

j.krug, good advice and you're absolutely right on the tapped holes! I guess I'd say the zinc coated screws are the way to roll for this situation.

I'm going to swap-out all my fasteners this winter, after hunting season is over. I love to hunt in the rain and although I'm very thorough in drying and cleaning after the hunt, I still would rather not have to worry so much about this issue.